Expecting mothers get tons of advice on what to do and what to avoid for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. This advice from family and friends can be overwhelming or confusing sometimes. But it is essential to keep in mind that the nutritional needs of the to-be mum are different, and the health and well-being of the developing baby are extremely important. This article will explore tips on how to have a healthy pregnancy.

Eating well
Plan meals that include a lot of veggies, fruits, and whole grains. Ensure you are getting enough protein as it is the building block of the cells. An expecting mother also needs folic acid, iron, iodine, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin D, and DHA. DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, is required to properly develop the baby’s brain and eyes. To-be mothers should avoid raw meat, deli meat, shellfish, fish with high mercury levels, raw eggs, smoked seafood, unpasteurized dairy, and soft cheese. Always ensure you drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. In addition to food, the body’s requirement for water also increases during pregnancy. Water helps to prevent constipation, urinary tract infections, and swelling. You can also drink beverages other than water, but always limit those high in empty calories and sugar, such as soda. It is essential to consult the healthcare provider for the right foods to include in the meal plans during pregnancy.

Exercise regularly
Although staying active and getting regular exercise are important during pregnancy, note that it must be done with caution. Only the activities recommended and suggested by the primary health care expert should be performed. Regular exercise will provide endurance and strength during pregnancy and help ease pains and aches. Such activity will also help handle the physical stress of labor and may boost mood and cognitive function. But overdoing it will give rise to issues, so light exercises are recommended.

Visit the doctor regularly
Regular healthcare visits are essential for expecting mothers, and appointments should not be missed. These doctor’s visits are necessary to monitor the health of the mother and baby. Do not go for any treatment option or change any treatment plan without consulting the health care expert. It is necessary to consult and talk with the doctor if conditions such as vaginal bleeding or leaking of fluid, pain, dizziness, fainting, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and decreased baby activity are experienced. Also, staying up-to-date on required vaccinations is recommended as this helps protect the mother and baby from harmful infections and diseases. Poor dental health can impact a pregnancy negatively, and hormones released during pregnancy can lead to changes in the gums. Hence, regularly visiting the dentist for a routine dental check-up, brushing twice daily, and flossing once a day would be useful.

Keep emotions in check
Many women feel like they are on an emotional roller coaster during pregnancy. At times the immense joy and excitement of being a new parent could be coupled with fear, anxiety, and nervousness. Therefore, mood swings are common during pregnancy. Sharing feelings with a partner or a family member is a good option. Good sleep is also required to deal with stress, fatigue, and tiredness. But if there are increased mood swings and anxiety disorder, immediately consult a health care provider.

Stay safe
Staying active as recommended by the health care expert is important, but there is a need to avoid certain activities during pregnancy. These activities include roller coasters, water slides, bumper cars, and motorcycles. Avoid sports like basketball and soccer that may result in a fall or collision. Staying away from sauna rooms and hot tubs is also suggested. Moreover, avoiding certain harmful substances and chemicals such as lead and mercury is necessary. Mercury is found primarily in pesticides, arsenic, fish, and solvents. Always try to check all product labels for warnings for pregnant women. Avoid standing for longer durations as this may cause issues with the veins and result in swollen ankles. Hand washing and taking extra precautions to avoid germs are vital. Also, talk to the doctor if there are any travel plans.

Get comfortable
Try to opt for clothing and shoes that offer comfort, are not clumsy, or cause falls. Avoid wearing heels as some women suffer from the foot problems such as swollen feet, swollen ankles, and heel pain.

Avoid misinformation
You may find a lot of information online, in books and magazines. Sometimes you may feel that there are different aspects to the information available, which may be confusing. So, whenever in doubt, speaking to the health care provider and following the treatment the right way is the best option.

Every pregnancy is unique, wonderful, and full of excitement and joyous for the entire family. Although we have mentioned some tips for a healthy pregnancy, it is always recommended to consult and talk with a health care expert and follow all recommendations and suggestions. Expecting mothers always have a lot to take care of and need all the help they can get from their near and dear ones so that the delivery is as expected and without any problems.