A Healthy Diet
A good pregnancy diet doesn’t have to be complicated. Make your calories count. Instead of drinking a Pepsi, drink non-fat milk loaded with calcium. If you’re eating a balanced diet, you only need 300 extra calories each day to feed your growing baby. Just be sure to not eat raw or uncooked meat.
Exercise
Workout appropriately for you and your future little one. One of the crucial types of activity that can easily be done throughout your pregnancy consists of those that aid and enhance the muscles’ stamina. Stretching can easily aid too. Exercise is proven to help not just your mood, but also increases energy levels to help get you through the day.
Cleaning Products
It’s impossible to avoid all cleaning products. Pregnant women can limit their exposure by wearing a mask and wearing plastic gloves while cleaning. If the weather permits, keep windows open while cleaning for good ventilation. If you can’t open a window, then use a fan. According to the American Pregnancy Association, “most cleaning products are safe to use during pregnancy.” Some chemicals may make women uncomfortable so it’s recommended they use baking soda, vinegar and other alternatives in those cases.
Dental Hygiene
Due to an increase in pregnancy hormones, gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) is a common problem for women that are expecting. Some symptoms to watch out for include: tender, red and swollen gums, bleeding gums and bad breath. Do not ignore dental problems because they can take a toll on the baby’s health as well as yours. Gum disease has actually been linked to pre-term birth. It’s a good idea to visit your dentist early on for a cleaning and exam. Brush at least two times a day with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste and floss regularly.
Fatigue
Cut back on the caffeine. Caffeine may work as a quick fix to get you going, but its effect fades quickly and the jury is still out on how much caffeine is really safe for your baby. Check your iron levels as well. Sometimes fatigue during pregnancy may stem from low levels of iron. If you’re concerned, ask your doctor to test your iron levels. Also, remember to eat plenty of iron-rich foods, including spinach, broccoli, beef, beans or enriched cereals.
Last, but not least, get adequate rest. If possible re-organize your schedule to accommodate your needed resting patterns and take naps whenever you can.
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