5 Tips for a Healthy Natural Pregnancy

1. Dietary advice: Hydrate yourself. Using water or herbal teas (because they are non-caffeinated). Ensure you are having enough water, as it can help you to fight fatigue, flush out wastes, eliminate leg cramps, relieve constipation and headaches.  Eat protein at every meal ~ your body needs it, as the amino acids in protein are the building blocks of life. High protein foods include nuts, meat, eggs, tofu, fish, chicken, brown rice, quinoa, cottage cheese, nut milk...the list goes on. Find something that is easy to grab and is equally delicious like some almond butter smeared on your apple slices for a snack, a tofu and veggie stir fry with brown rice for dinner, and a breakfast smoothie with hemp hearts, almond milk and peanut butter and banana. There are millions of options for smoothies to increase your daily protein, especially if your appetite has changed or you are experiencing nausea and vomiting and you are unsure how to continue to eat healthy for you and babe.
2. Exercise: it doesn’t mean you need a hardcore gym membership, it just means you need movement. As your body is changing to accommodate a growing fetus, stretching, walking, swimming, yoga or other exercise classes can give such physical relief. It helps to avoid back pain that can occur with pregnancy, but the best thing about exercise is the feeling of accomplishment and feeling good about doing something great for your health and baby’s health.
3. Best pre natal vitamin. Your body and baby’s body need the best possible nourishment at this special time. Therefore it is important to supplement some vitamins and minerals to ensure baby is getting all the necessary nutrients. I always recommend a pre natal vitamin that is in capsule form instead of tablet form due to increased absorption. Also finding a vitamin that agrees with your digestion is important, as some women find the iron in the multi vitamin difficult to absorb or eliminate. There are prenatal vitamins available with a much easier absorbable iron. Check your labels, and switch to a healthier brand if necessary.
4. Alternative medicine: Acupuncture, botanical medicine, massage therapy, chiropractic, osteopathic, and Homeopathy can be such a gift to help you navigate this pharmaceutical free period of your life. There are so many amazing options available to you. Ensure the alternative you choose is a natural and safe form of medicine to use during pregnancy. I have recommended acupuncture, botanical medicine and homeopathy for colds and flu, headaches, emotional changes, mood disorders, high blood pressure,to prepare the uterus,for inducing labor and reducing healing time after baby’s birth day.
5. Get connected with other moms, or mama’s-to-be as it can be such a relief to know you are not the only one going through this incredible change. Other moms are such a great resource and source of support and encouragement. It can make all the difference when you feel connected and supported through your pregnancy journey both physically and emotionally.