Monday 29 July 2013

Proper Nutrition and Exercise While Pregnant

During pregnancy, mothers must make sure that they are getting the appropriate nutrition and exercise. Mothers must remember that their unborn child relies on them for vitamins, minerals and calories while in the womb. The mother must remain strong throughout pregnancy as well, and must maintain the appropriate diet throughout her pregnancy. Many doctors recommend that women consume about 300 more calories during their pregnancy than they did prior to pregnancy.

A lot of women struggle to maintain the proper diet during their first few months of pregnancy. Morning sickness and nausea may make it difficult to eat and retain food. Women should nonetheless try to maintain a balanced diet and should take prenatal vitamins. The morning sickness period does pass and it is around this time that women begin to gain weight.

Eating a variety of foods is a good way for women to make sure that they are getting all of the proper nutrition during their pregnancy. Breads and whole grains, fruit, vegetables, dairy and protein should all be well-represented in the diet. Talk to a doctor or the appropriate nutritional expert for more specific information about the appropriate diet during pregnancy.

Women should always avoid alcohol, smoking and drugs while pregnant. Any prescription drugs should be approved by a doctor. Women should also limit caffeine or eliminate it completely from their diet. Food with mercury (many types of fish) should also be avoided.

During pregnancy, women should also make sure that they get the appropriate amount of exercise. Exercise helps women stay strong and healthy during their pregnancy and may even help to relieve certain symptoms of pregnancy such as backache and fatigue. Those with certain medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and asthma may be encouraged not to exercise. Women should speak with a doctor to determine if exercise is safe for them.

An exercise program should not put the woman in danger of falling (rollerblading, skiing, etc.), make them hold their breath (swimming) or cause abdominal trauma (activities that cause rapid changes of direction or sudden, powerful motions). Women should also avoid contact sports (football, basketball, baseball, soccer, softball, etc.) and should not exercise in hot, humid weather.

Exercise should consist of about 15 minutes of cardio and women should monitor their heart rate throughout. Pregnant women are strongly encouraged to consult a doctor before designing or engaging in any exercise or exercise program.

Find out more about nutrition and pregnancy, foods to avoid, and more pertinent information for a healthy balance between your mind and body while pregnant and after. Improve your chances of a healthy birth, make an appointment with www.DomarCenter.com in Boston, MA.

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