Tips for staying fit and eating healthy during your pregnancy:
Take it outside. Make time in your schedule to get outside and workout wherever possible! One of the easiest things you can do is get outside and go for a walk. This is a great time to take in some fresh air, a little Vitamin D and connect with nature. I suggest you bring your partner along with you because it’s the perfect time to walk, talk and connect. Some of the best conversations my husband and I have are on our daily/nightly walks (we even chose our baby name choices during these walks!). One of my other favorite things to do now that it is summer is going to the outdoor pool or down to the lake for a swim. Swimming is amazing and such a nice low impact activity to do when you are pregnant.
Don’t Stop. Just because you’re pregnant doesn’t mean you have to stop going to your favorite workout class or stop doing other activities. Talk with your instructor and explain that you are pregnant and they will help you to make the appropriate adjustments to your workout so that you can safely participate. I know many women who have kept up with cross fit, body pump and spinning during their entire pregnancy.
Take time to stretch. Whether this means you start participating in a yoga class or invest in a prenatal yoga DVD or just spend 10-15 minutes per day, gentle stretching is very important to do during pregnancy. Not sure what kind of stretches to do? Talk with your prenatal care provider and they can provide you with a list of stretches that are great during pregnancy.
Eat whole foods. During pregnancy you are not only nourishing your body but also your growing baby. Make sure to avoid alcohol and limit caffeine, processed sugars and other processed foods as well as any other pregnancy no-no foods such as deli meats, soft unpasteurized cheeses, and organ meats (your prenatal care provider should provide you with a full list of these items). Focus on eating whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables as much as possible and remember to take a prenatal vitamin. However, don’t over stress about every little thing you put in your mouth especially in the first trimester when the only thing that appeals to you are mashed potatoes.
