Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy

Having a baby is one of the biggest joys of life. Mommy should take proactive steps to ensure her and her baby’s health and wellbeing throughout the pregnancy, and after her baby is born.

Here are some tips to maintain a healthy pregnancy:

Eat a nutritious, balanced diet. Doing so (1) promotes good brain development and healthy birth weight of the baby; (2) lowers the risk of many birth defects; and (3) reduces the risk of anemia, fatigue and morning sickness. A well-balanced diet for pregnant women should include protein, vitamin C, calcium, fruits and vegetables, whole grains, iron-rich foods, adequate fat, folic acid, and other nutrients like choline.

Don’t drink alcohol. Alcohol is linked to premature delivery, intellectual disability, birth defects, and low birthweight babies.

Limit your caffeine intake. High levels of caffeine may increase the risk of miscarriage or low birthweight.

Choose pasteurized milk, cheese, and juice. This will protect you and baby from a bacterial or parasitic infection such as listeriosis.

Manage your weight. Gaining weight during pregnancy is completely natural. However, make sure to talk to your doctor on how best to monitor your weight and dietary needs throughout your pregnancy.

Take prenatal vitamins. Eating a balanced diet provides most nutrients needed during pregnancy. However, prenatal vitamin supplements play an important role in filling any nutritional gaps. Talk to your doctor about the prenatal vitamins needed during pregnancy.

Stay active. Experts recommend moderate exercise for pregnant people. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week. Talk to your doctor before starting any exercise regimen.

Prenatal care. Make sure to go for all prenatal care checkups. This will help your doctor monitor you and your baby throughout your pregnancy. Maximize your prenatal checkups by asking your doctor about any pregnancy-related concerns.

Take all necessary precautions against COVID-19. Pregnant women are at increased risk for developing severe COVID-19. Stay at home as much as possible. If you must go out, wear a face mask and face shield, and avoid crowded places. Practice physical distancing.

Consult your doctor for more information about maintaining a healthy pregnancy.

Shop at Watsons for prescription medications, supplements, and other essential healthcare needs.

References:

https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/healthy-pregnancy#prenatal-care. Accessed 29 March 2021
https://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/eating-right-when-pregnant#2. Accessed 29 March 2021
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/pregnancy-breastfeeding.html. Accessed 29 March 2021