Prenatal Health: Top Tips To Stay Well During Pregnancy

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Pregnancy is a unique journey, which can throw up all kinds of symptoms and ailments. Every woman is different, but every pregnancy is also unique. Women who have more than one child often talk about completely different experiences. Staying fit and well during pregnancy is important for moms-to-be and their unborn babies. In this guide, we’ll share some top tips to optimize prenatal health and well-being.

Diet, vitamins and supplements

Good nutrition is essential during pregnancy, but it’s not always easy to eat well. Morning sickness is common during the early stages of pregnancy and many women find that being pregnant affects their appetite and what they want to eat. If you struggle with sickness, it’s best to choose small meals and snacks and stick to plain foods. Some people find ginger helps to ease nausea.

Following a healthy eating plan can help you boost your health during pregnancy. Try to ensure you get plenty of fruit and vegetables daily, stay hydrated, and keep your body fueled. Moderate your intake of processed foods and those high in salt, sugar and saturated fats. Foods to avoid during pregnancy include fish and seafood with high mercury content, alcohol, raw fish, unpasteurized dairy products, pâté, game, liver, soft cheeses and blue cheese.

It’s also crucial to add supplements during pregnancy in line with advice from your care team. Examples include folic acid, which is particularly important during the first trimester. You can buy multivitamins and supplements, which are designed for pregnant women. Avoid products that contain vitamin A. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or midwife.


Managing aches and pains

Around 70% of pregnant women experience back pain. Carrying a baby puts extra pressure on the spine, your body weight increases, and you go through dramatic hormonal changes. It’s especially common to develop aches and pains during the final trimester when both the weight of your body and your baby can increase significantly.

There are many ways to manage pain, including gentle exercises, such as swimming, having regular baths, using a pregnancy pillow to enhance comfort at night and seeing experienced chiropractors. Experts like those at Calmbody Chiropractic Club specialize in prenatal exercises to reduce discomfort. Maintaining good posture, avoiding heavy lifting and making sure your weight is evenly distributed can also help.


Staying active

Staying active can be hugely beneficial for your mental and physical health. It’s not always easy to exercise when you’re pregnant, especially towards the end, but there are ways to enjoy physical activity. Examples include going swimming, walking every day and joining exercise classes and groups for pregnant ladies. Prenatal classes can help you stay fit but they’re also great for meeting other expectant moms. You can also work with personal trainers or work out at home. Always make sure the exercises you do are safe during pregnancy.

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Staying well during pregnancy is essential for moms-to-be and their unborn babies. Simple steps to follow include eating healthily, taking vitamins and supplements, managing aches and pains, and staying active. If you have any concerns about your health, seek advice from your doctor.