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subject: Steps To A Healthy Pregnancy [print this page]

Pregnancy, besides being one of the most special durations of your life, is a time where the

focus is you. Taking good care of your health both physical and psychological is of utmost

importance during this crucial period. Here are a few steps to ensure a wonderful and healthy

pregnancy:

1) Eat balanced meals: Contrary to popular belief, the excess intake of calories required

by your body during pregnancy is only around two hundred calories the equivalent of

a couple of slices of toast and butter. You need adequate and wholesome nutrition, so

while you might be turned off some foods, aim to replace those with others that offer

a similar nutritional value. Increase your intake of proteins and dairy foods if you take

them in lesser quantities, for a healthy pregnancy. Keep yourself hydrated throughout

the day lime juice, tender coconut water, and fresh fruit and vegetable juices are

always recommended, as they contain necessary vitamins and minerals. Eat five to six

regular meals a day, with large portions of vegetables and fruits for that essential fiber.

2) Exercise regularly: A good exercise program can aid in a myriad of ways for a healthy

pregnancy. For one, your body will adapt better to the physical stress and gain strength

to carry the extra weight. Exercise regimens have also been scientifically proven to have

a feel-good factor, which keeps you in a good mood and boosts your spirits. If you are

a regular with exercise, continue with your regimen as long as you are comfortable. If

not, try walking, yoga, or gentle exercises such as aqua-aerobics. Strengthen your pelvic

muscles, as these are the ones most affected during pregnancy. You can try pelvic floor

exercises which are easy to practice while doing day-to-day activities.

3) Rest adequately: If you are a work-savvy businesswoman, this is perhaps the most

important piece of advice you will need during your pregnancy. The fatigue and the

overwhelming changes in your body are signals to slow down. Try to cut down on work-

hours, and accept as much help as is extended. Put your legs up and relax, stretch, or

even experiment with a little mild yoga during those stressful hours, if you cannot afford

the comfort of a kip during daytime. For a healthy pregnancy, sleep adequately and

comfortably, and make up for lost sleep quickly. Rest is of utmost importance.

4) Cut down on alcohol, smoking, and caffeine: These are the three devils that can wreck

havoc to a healthy pregnancy period. Ensure that you dont take in more than two cups

of coffee or alcohol a day during your pregnancy. Women who smoke stand the risk of

miscarriage and pre-mature delivery, so stop smoking altogether during this nine-month

period. Avoid prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke, and switch to decaffeinated

coffee or tea.

by: Nyrie and Tony Roos

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