By Jessica Feagin | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Staying healthy is especially important during pregnancy. A nutritious and well-balanced diet during pregnancy can result in healthy birth weight and good baby brain development (Stickler, 2020). It can also reduce the risk of several congenital disabilities and the risk of anemia and morning sickness in the mother. A well-balanced diet during pregnancy consists of fruits and vegetables, vitamin C, protein, calcium, whole grains, folic acid, and iron-rich foods. Ensuring your juice, milk, and cheese are pasteurized is important to protect you and your baby from parasitic or bacterial infections. Also, avoid undercooked seafood and meat. In addition to a nutritious and well-balanced diet, prenatal vitamins play a vital role during pregnancy. For example, folic acid and choline are essential vitamins that may prevent spine and brain birth defects.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, it is recommended that pregnant women aim for at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity. Exercising during pregnancy can decrease stress, increase energy levels, increase circulation, improve sleep, and reduce backaches.

While pregnant, it is essential to avoid smoking, using drugs, and drinking alcohol. These habits have been linked to complications and can pose serious risks for you and your baby. For example, drinking alcohol during pregnancy can result in fetal alcohol syndrome, which can cause your baby to have abnormalities in their central nervous system and be underweight. Drinking alcohol can also cause premature labor and delivery and even stillbirth.

Make sure you attend all prenatal care appointments so your doctor can monitor you and your baby closely throughout your pregnancy. Having a baby can be the most exciting time for you and your family, so ensuring a healthy lifestyle is very important for you and your baby’s health. Do you have any pregnancy tips to give to pregnant mothers? If so, please share.

References

Stickler, T. (2020, July 9). Maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/healthy-pregnancy