PREGNANCYHEALTHY

10 TIPS FOR A

DR. LORI GORE-GREEN

Take a Multivitamin

Taking a multivitamin will ensure that both you and your baby aregetting enough nutrients during the pregnancy with vitamins that

may not be in your diet. Folic acid, calcium, and iron are also essentialto develop the neural cord, which becomes the brain and spinal cord.

Monitor Your Weight

Purchase a scale and weigh yourself each week to avoid putting

your baby at risk of a low weight if you gain too much. A normal

weight gain is between 25 to 30 pounds.

Prepare for Delivery

Educate yourself and prepare for delivery by taking a childbirth

class where you'll learn what to expect after you go into labor.

This will allow you to practice breathing exercises and even report

birth defects that have occurred in your family history.

Stay Active

Although it may be easy to slow down after becoming pregnant, it's

important to exercise three to five times a week to maintain your weight

and increase your blood circulation. Opt for workouts that include pilates,

yoga, or swimming and attempt to work out for 30 minutes each day.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Wear shoes that have proper support on your feet and don't put

you at risk of falling as you begin to carry the baby.

Sleep on Your Side

Avoid putting excess pressure on your baby as you sleep at night

by avoiding sleeping on your back or stomach. Opt for sleeping on

your left side, which will allow more nutrients and blood to reach

the placenta.

Practice Kegels

Strengthen your pelvic floor muscles by performing Kegels each

day to support your uterus, bladder, and bowels. This will help you

during the pushing process after you go into labor.

Eat Foods That Contain Folate

To increase your health during your pregnancy, opt for consuming

foods that are rich in folate, which will allow the neural tube to

develop correctly and covers the spinal cord. Consume foods that

include asparagus, orange juice, cereal, and lentils.

Consume Less Caffeine

Instead of relying on coffee to get energy during your pregnancy, you

can maintain your health by reaching for fruit instead. The natural

sugars that are available in the food will allow you to recharge without

consuming caffeine, which is considered to be a psychoactive drug.

Pay Attention to Pain

Know when to call the doctor by paying close attention to any pain that

you may be experiencing. Contractions at 20-minute intervals and

strong cramps can be a cause of concern and should be evaluated by a

medical professional.

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