Pregnancy is a time of pure joy and ecstasy, as well as getting acquainted with the myriad bodily changes that accompanies getting pregnant. The human body can breathe, and regulate the heart beat without any conscious effort on our part. In the same way, our body is perfectly capable of conceiving, growing, bringing the baby to term, give birth and nourish it without any extra effort from our end. All we need to do is to trust our body and to trust the process implicitly.
Every woman trying to conceive or who is pregnant would benefit greatly from being aware of the basics of pregnancy. Starting with good nutrition, a pregnant lady needs to consume a prenatal vitamin each day. The folic acid is the most important vitamin and this helps to prevent neural tube defects in the growing embryo. A daily pill of folic acid, a protein shake along with a healthy wholesome diet can amply cover a pregnant lady’s nutritional needs quite well.
Yet another mineral /vitamin supplement that should be taken regularly is calcium/magnesium. In pregnant women, the body robs from itself to provide enough of calcium and magnesium for the growing baby. This is the cause of any woman coming out of pregnancy with teeth problems, thinning bones, muscle cramps and backache. In order for these minerals to be beneficial for the body, they need to get absorbed. Hence, calcium must be taken with magnesium and Vitamin D. Calcium should be taken at a different time from iron supplement since iron and calcium can bind together, rendering each unavailable. So take care to consume the daily dosage of iron in the morning to remain energetic throughout the day and take calcium plus magnesium at night to help relax and sleep well.
A good healthy diet including protein, fish, and lots of whole grains, fruits and vegetables are a must for a pregnant woman. Good hydration is as important as a healthy exercise regimen. Walking and prenatal yoga are wonderful exercises for pregnant women- the watchword is to avoid breathlessness and overheating.
A woman’s breasts increase in size as pregnancy advances. Hormone changes can cause them to get bigger in preparation for breast feeding. To stay comfortable, wear a soft comfortable maternity or nursing bra with extra support.
Dizziness and feeling light headed are common symptoms due to growth of more blood vessels, and the pressure of the expanding uterus on blood vessels. When feeling lightheaded, lie down on your left side and avoid sitting or standing in one position for a long time. To prevent hemorrhoids, drink lots of fluid and eat plenty of fiber rich foods. At varying times during pregnancy, cramps in legs and feet may develop due to a change in the way the body processes or metabolizes calcium. Get regular mild exercise and partake of low fat, calcium rich foods.
Maintain good posture, take deep long breaths. To keep swelling at bay, drink 8-10 glasses of water. Avoid salty foods and as often as possible, rest with feet elevated. Take these careful steps to a joyous world of motherhood!