Pregnancy Health
During pregnancy, a woman’s body experiences many physical and hormonal changes. It is especially important that she nourishes and cares for herself, and that she avoids harmful substances and stresses, which may cause harm to her and her baby.
Tips to Stay Healthy During Pregnancy
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Eat a healthy balanced diet:
- Small frequent meals
- Crackers at bedtime
- Crackers in the morning
Take plenty of calcium:
- Milk, Cheese, Yogurt, Fortified juices such as orange juice
Take plenty of iron:
- Spinach, Beets, Artichokes, Beans, Lentils & Soybeans, Tree Nuts such as almonds and walnuts -
Do not try to lose weight during your pregnancy
Instead, eat a healthy, balanced diet and ask your doctor about a prenatal exercise regimen. -
Taking prenatal vitamins will ensure that your body is getting the extra nutrients it needs during pregnancy to keep you and your baby healthy.
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Smoking can drastically affect your baby’s health.
If you smoke, your baby is at high risk for: low birth weight, brain damage, respiratory damage, heart damage and death. -
If you drink beverages containing alcohol while you are pregnant, your baby is at high risk for: mental retardation/brain damage, physical defects such as abnormal eyes, head, and face, and possibly death.
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While you are pregnant, it is extremely important that you get plenty of rest, especially as you get further along.
Take naps during the day if possible and try to get 8 hours of sleep each night. -
Do not take any medications unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Citation: Mayo Clinic – Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/fetal-development/PR00114