Healthy Habits During Pregnancy
By Brenna Anderson-period 6
It is important to have healthy habits during pregnancy because the mother's lifestyle has a huge effect on the baby. Having healthy habits will increase the chances of having a successful pregnancy.
Diet
Diet is one of the most important factors in a pregnancy because the mother is now "eating for two" The mother needs 300 extra calories but they should be from nutritious foods. A balanced diet needs to include fruits, veggies, lean meats, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Along with eating healthy mothers need to drink 6-8 eight oz. glasses of water each day. Pregnant women should do what the doctor says regarding their diet; eat healthy, take any prescribed supplements, and avoid any foods that may have a negative effect on the pregnancy.
Sleep
Doctors recommend that adults get 7-9 hours of sleep each night but often, pregnant women need more. Unfortunately, it can be hard for pregnant women to sleep because they are often uncomfortable. There are many physical symptoms that affect their sleep. Talk to your doctor about the best way to sleep. Some tips for sleeping: Avoid eating or drinking large amounts right before bed, avoid exercising right before bed, find a way to relax before bed like soaking in a warm bath and drinking a cup of hot tea. Pregnant women need to find what works best for them so they can get the sleep they need.
Exercise
Exercise has been proven to be very beneficial because reduces risk of miscarriage, reduces complication, and reduces the length of labor. Regular exercise has many benefits even for people who aren't pregnant. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends 2 1/2 hours of aerobic exercise at a moderate-intensity level each week. Pregnant women should talk to their doctor to discuss what they should and shouldn't do. Some good exercises for pregnancy are walking, swimming, and yoga/Pilates. These exercises are low-impact and can be kept at a moderate-intensity level. Pregnant women should slow down and take lots of breaks so they don't overwork or injure themselves.
There are many things women can do to have a healthy pregnancy. They should talk to their doctor so they know what's right for them.
Sources
http://mommy2baustin.com/7-healthy-habits-during-pregnancy/-4/30/13
http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_center/your_pregnancy/preg_health.html#-4/30/13
http://www.mountauburnhealthconnection.com/article.php?a=134-4/30/13
http://kidshealth.org/parent/pregnancy_center/your_pregnancy/sleep_during_pregnancy.html#-5/2/13
www.cdc.gov-5/7/13