The pregnancy experience can be quite joyful and even exhilarating in some cases. However, it can also be a time of great uncertainty, especially if it is the first time. Concerns and doubts may creep up as the pregnancy advances. Many experts may provide conflicting opinions and suggestions, which can further exacerbate the problem. 

Here, we will focus on tried and true tips and techniques that have stood the test of time. These suggestions will help you stay healthy (and sane) during your pregnancy.

Eat for Two

When you are pregnant, you will essentially be eating for two. A healthy diet will reduce the risk of complications during the pregnancy, and will also provide you with added stamina and other benefits. However, some people mistakenly believe that eating for two means eating twice as much as normal. Instead, what it means is the food that you put into your system will nourish your baby. 

Vegetables, fruits, and foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, and calcium will help during the fetal development. While a balanced diet is important, you should also try to stay active. Of course, you should avoid strenuous activities, so try and find a balance in order to optimize your wellbeing.

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Take Prenatal Vitamins

Talk to your doctor about taking prenatal minerals and vitamins while you are pregnant. By doing so, you will be certain that your baby is getting the essential nutrients it needs in order to grow. Of course, you will also need to eat a healthy and balanced diet, as the baby will not get all it needs from supplements alone.

Vitamin D is very important for expectant mothers, so talk to your doctor about a possible vitamin D supplement. It is also important to only take the supplements that your doctor recommends, as mixing different drugs may cause problems down the road.

Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is very important, especially if you are pregnant. The amniotic sac and the development of the placenta are heavily dependent on being adequately hydrated. You will need to drink 8 glasses of liquid per day. Liquids may include milk (skimmed or semi-skimmed), fresh fruit juice, water, and fruit teas.

Food Safety

Certain foods must be avoided at all costs while you are pregnant. Some foods may stimulate parasites and bacteria that can pose serious health risks to your developing infant. For example, we would suggest that you avoid store-made salads while you are pregnant. Refrigerated meat spreads and unpasteurized juices should also be avoided. Other drinks and foods to steer clear of include unpasteurized milk products and refrigerated smoked seafood products.

Travel Safely

If you are thinking of travelling, it is best to consult with your doctor first. Leaving the country, in particular, may pose serious risks to both you and your baby. If you do decide to travel, request a full physical to ensure that you are in optimal health.

We would also advise that you avoid sitting in a plane or car for prolonged periods of time. The good news is air travel is safe for most expectant mothers. In fact, most airlines will allow pregnant women to fly on their planes if they are up to 36 months pregnant. However, if you suspect that something is wrong while you are travelling abroad, you should not wait until you arrive back home in order to consult with a medical professional.

Chiropractic Care

Joint, hip, and back pain are very common when a woman is pregnant. The good news is that immediate relief can usually be obtained by making a visit to a local chiropractor.

Routine chiropractic care before, during, and after pregnancy can have many mental and physical benefits. Chiropractic care in Oakville is not only effective but also safe for women who are pregnant. It will also help you if you are having trouble maintaining your balance while pregnant.

While establishing pelvis balance is key, you will also notice marked improvements if you are dealing with chronic or acute hip, joint, or back pain. Your growing baby will be provided with ample space during your pregnancy, so you do not have to worry about it being injured. In fact, some studies have found that chiropractic care can accelerate the delivery, and may also make labour and delivery more manageable.

Avoid Alcohol and Smoking

The consumption of alcohol is currently the leading cause of preventable birth defects in the world. For example, fetal alcohol syndrome affects thousands of babies every year. When a  baby is exposed to alcohol, its development will be impeded, as its brain will be adversely affected. In some cases, the baby may experience permanent brain damage, or even death.

Smoking should also be avoided entirely, as it is not only harmful to people, but to infants as well. For example, studies have found that smoking can lead to many different forms of cancer, including lung, pancreatic, and throat cancer, as well as heart disease and stroke. 

As far as pregnancy is concerned, smoking can also greatly increase the risk of low birth weight and serious birth defects. Both smoking and alcohol should be avoided entirely while you are pregnant, and please speak to your doctor if you need help quitting.

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Conclusion

Staying active and healthy under normal circumstances can be very challenging. Trying to eat a balanced diet and exercise while pregnant is even more so. For instance, you may feel weak or bloated while pregnant, which may make exercise a challenge. You may also have certain cravings that may make it hard to control your portion sizes and appetite.

Try and stay busy in order to get your blood circulation flowing, and to help keep temptations at bay. It is important to maintain all of your doctor’s appointments while you are pregnant. They will help guide you through each stage of your pregnancy and will also carefully monitor your health to ensure that everything is going according to plan. For more information, please contact your local chiropractic center.

Erin Gregory is a blogger in Toronto. She is currently working as a Community Manager for several small businesses. She has graduated with honors from the University of British Columbia with a dual degree in Business Administration and Creative Writing.