This is baby number 4 so I have a lot of experience being pregnant. I lost about 35lbs before becoming pregnant this time so I am trying to keep my weight gain to a minimum. I’m doing all I can to stay healthy and positive. Since this is my fourth pregnancy, I know what to expect and what I want to do differently. Here are some of my tips for expecting moms to being healthy during pregnancy:
Tips for Expecting Moms
- Drink at least 64oz of water daily.
This is tough for me, battling nausea and being so busy. I have a tumbler that I fill and carry with me, including in the car. This helps me keep track of my intake and keeps me from purchasing drinks when I’m out doing errands and such.
- Take a prenatal vitamin.
By setting a phone alarm to sound, it ensures I remember every day to take my vitamins. This is a super easy trick!
- Eat a balanced diet.
You want to eat plenty of protein, fruits and vegetables. Make sure you get healthy carbs into your diet. Carbs are important for your babies growth.
- Ask Your Doctor Questions.
Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor questions about test, procedures, or medicines they want you to take. It is good to be involved in your care.
- Exercise 30 minutes a day.
Some days, I’m just plain tired but forcing myself to take my long walk to the mailbox or even taking the stairs at the hospital, I get my 30 minutes in. I love using my Apple Watch to track my progress and challenge myself. Also my local YMCA offers exercises classes I want to get back into doing yoga. Our family membership has been a blessing. Check to see if your local YMCA has any enrollment assistance or if your work sponsors a special rate.
- Track my weight gain.
Ladies, we all know ice cream is a beautiful thing and those drive-thrus are fast and easy but after four kids, I know that I’ll have my work cut out for me getting the weight off post-baby so I would like to gain as little as possible.
I’m doing my best to eat healthy and stay away from empty calories, sugars and high carbs. Meal planning and packing lunch on the go really helps. This has been a great budgeting tool. While meal planning can be hard to plan, it does get easier and really saves you in the long run and allows you fewer grocery store stops. I bought fun size candy bars to treat myself occasionally when the ‘ol sweet tooth calls. This is an awesome way to keep from overindulging and monitor portion control. One thing I’m focusing on is eating more folate-rich foods like fortified cereals, asparagus, lentils, wheat germ, oranges, and orange juice. I want to do everything I can to keep myself healthy AND keep my baby as healthy as possible.
With my expanding family, I worry constantly about being more financially secure. By making healthy choices, I’m hoping to bounce back quicker and have minimal (hopefully none!) complications. My ultimate goal is to maintain this healthier lifestyle indefinitely after the baby. Having my whole family eating healthier and being more active means we will save money when it comes to our medical costs and that’s always a good thing!!
What tips for expecting moms do you have?
