I've been thinking lately, what constitutes a healthy pregnancy? To me, it's keeping your mind, body and baby in check at all times....
I must say, before I get into this post further, I have always been into fitness and health. I grew up in a very active family; my mom was a (fast) marathon runner and dad competed in triathalons. Together, they raised three children who have always been competitive in sports, focused on eating what's right, and overall we take good care of ourselves. My mom was the most beautiful pregnant woman EVER, she always stuck within the 20 lb arena and took pride in having a healthy pregnancy. This is her, pregnant with me at age 23!
I mean.. come on!
With my first pregnancy, I was focused on eating right and working hard to stay fit. I was nervous to "lose" my body, not fit into my skinny jeans, and feel out of shape. I learned quickly, that I was NOT going to let myself fall apart. Here are some simple motto's I tried to stick by...
8 Months Pregnant!
- Everyday, get at least 30 minutes of exercise or some sort of activity. I stuck with a personal trainer up until 6 months and felt GREAT!
- Drink LOTS of water ALL the time!
- Eat small meals throughout the day, don't gorge on 3 large meals, which will lead you feeling tired, bloated and probably not very happy.
- Breath & take breaks; something about pregnancy made me stress around the clock. I would try to end my day with a warm bath, candles and even just 10 minutes of yoga stretches.
For my second pregnancy (6 months today!), I've tried to stick with the same health tips. Although, I was much more sick during the first trimester, I made sure I was getting enough exercise, REST, and nourishment. During both pregnancies, dinner has always been the hardest meal to eat. By the end of the day, I'm tired, want my bed and have no desire to cook or eat a meal. It hasn't been the easiest on my family but it's something I just can't help while I'm pregnant. If this sounds like you (for dinner or any other meal), my recommendation is the following...
5 1/2 Months Pregnant!
- Keep fresh cut fruit in the fridge at all times. I found that at night, I wanted lots of fruit! It is refreshing and a great treat to end your day.
- Buy healthy cereal! One thing I tend to make myself for dinner is cereal with almond milk and berries/bananas. I try to add in some nuts for protein in order to get some nutrition. Some cereals I try to stick with are Kashi Heart to Heart, Wheat Chex, Grape Nuts, and my splurge is Honey Nut Cheerios.
- Write a list of ALL healthy/somewhat healthy food that you like to eat. This might be hard because of daily / weekly changes in cravings, but try to stick with it. I loved having baby carrots and low fat ranch dressing close by at all times to snack on or natural peanut butter and rice cakes.
Another key exercise tip I'd give to all pregnant woman is to buy prenatal workout DVD's. While pregnant, I tend to prefer working out away from the gym, something about lots of sweaty people and my growing belly turns me off. So, I've found that a good workout tape is a must-have. In fact, tonight I made myself (at 5 p.m.) do my favorite workout tape by a close friend, Autumn Calabrese. Autumn has a 14 month old son and should be an inspiration to ALL pregnant and new moms, she is in crazy shape and really takes health to the next level! I had to post a picture of her for all you pregnant moms as inspiration that you TOO can look great being pregnant.
www.mightymommies.com
To end, I'd like to say that being pregnant does not mean you have to gain 40-70 lbs. I understand some woman are put on bed rest and it's just impossible to stick to a plan, but really you don't have to let yourself go! Have fun with food but don't get out of control, this is your body and your babies health!
