Simple ways to look after your body during pregnancy
Pregnancy is such a special time, and with a new life growing inside you you’ll of course want to take care of your body as best as you can. Whilst I craved Nando’s and McDonald’s and did give into the occasional craving I was aware of what ‘good stuff’ I needed to put into it too. Here are some simple ways to look after your body during pregnancy…
Drink pure water
We’re so lucky to live in a part of the world where clean, fresh water is instantly available to us with a turn of a tap – however, there are some things to perhaps bear in mind. Water hardness levels can vary depending on where you live, meaning mineral deposits can accumulate and affect the taste (as well as the performance of your appliances). Studies have also shown nasties like viruses and bacteria can be present in our water- while they’re within safe levels this might be something you may decide to avoid and if you do then a company like WaterSoftenerPro along with a filtration system (or just a water jug with a filter on it) will provide you with the purest of H20.
Buy organic
We all know that we need to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables during pregnancy, but this can be a bit of a double edged sword. Lots of the produce we eat has traces of pesticides, so the more we eat, the more we’re exposed too. Things like milk and dairy products can contain hormones from the farm animals and so it’s something to be aware of. If you buy organic you’ll spend a little more, but have peace of mind that you’re avoiding these chemicals.
Exercise safely
Exercise needs to be done carefully in pregnancy, so be sure to listen to what your doctors recommendations are. For example, unless you were very fit before you conceived, you shouldn’t do anything too strenuous throughout the pregnancy. However, staying active is something that’s recommended for most mothers-to-be; it can get you out of the house, help to balance hormones and give you a boost in your mood. You could try gentle activity like swimming, take up yoga or go out walking. Anything that slightly raises your heart rate without pushing yourself, and gets your body moving is a good thing.
Keep stress levels down
Pregnancy is a wonderful time, but it can also be a time of stress. From worrying about finances to the early days of motherhood to work, chances are you’ll have a lot on your mind. For this reason, it’s important to find ways to relax. It could be a trip to the spa or just a pampering bath. It could be a mini break on a sunny weekend, or just time sat out in your garden. If it’s the birth that’s stressing you, start coming up with a plan that puts you in control. Try hypnotherapy and look into options like water births to see what suits you. You can read my Sofia birth story here and my Arlo birth story here!
*This is a collaborative post.
