Ten Tips for a Healthier Pregnancy Part 2

How to make a healthy bun in the oven...

Welcome back for part 2 of our article regarding tips for a healthier pregnancy. Click here if you haven’t read part 1 yet. Without further delay, let's proceed.

6.
Don't forget about water.
Some people find it hard to drink water when they're not thirsty. But since you're pregnant, you should get into the habit of drinking water regularly throughout the day. Remember that your body is going through significant changes. One of these changes is a rapid increase in blood volume. In addition, when you're pregnant, your body doesn't easily adapt to positional changes. For example, when you're in the lying down position, and you suddenly stand up, you may feel a bit dizzy. Guzzling down water will help prevent this physiological problem and also prevents you from falling as a result of feeling dizzy. Check out our article about the other great health benefits of drinking plenty of water.
7.
Remember your dentist.
How many women forget to see their dentist when they are pregnant? This may sound insignificant to you, but dental problems can pose a threat to your pregnancy. There are some studies linking early labour with infections in the oral cavity. Also, if your belly isn't big enough to be noticed yet, you might want to tell your dentist that there's a bun in the oven. Oh yes, this should be before any dental procedure. And another thing, the form you fill out with the receptionist (at the dentist's office) or during the interview with your dentist DOES MATTER. So stop complaining and fill it out properly.
8.
Alcohol and Smoking.
This may be a no-brainer for some, but others will just find excuses to consume alcohol and continue smoking during pregnancy. Alcohol is bad for your baby, even the smallest amounts can harm your baby. No one knows what the exact threshold for alcohol is at each stage of gestation. Nobody needs to know, just don't drink alcohol, that's it. Ever heard of fetal alcohol syndrome? It's a LIST of physical and mental defects your baby could experience when you consume large amounts of alcohol.

Smoking is another big no-no for your baby. This also applies to second hand smoke. If someone at home smokes, you will just have to ask him or her to do it outside away from you. Smoke produces all kinds of pregnancy complications like the early separation of your placenta from your uterus and low birth weight. Why would you want that?

I just have to get this off my chest and mention it. Do you use illegal or street drugs? What are you?! Are you trying to be the next Breaking Bad story (hit TV crime drama series about drugs)?! It's an absolute no.

9.
What about my morning coffee?
Try decaffeinated please, just this once. If you really must, there are conflicting studies as to how many cups of coffee are acceptable or allowed when you're pregnant. To be on the safe side, one serving of coffee per day is enough. If you drink more than that, the picture becomes blurry. More cups could mean less blood flow to your baby. Less blood flow could have a negative impact on your baby's growth. Too much coffee (or caffeine - energy drinks are out too) also increases your chances of having a miscarriage.

10.
Exercise.
Having a baby is no excuse to balloon up. If you're already used to exercising before, you should dial down the intensity level. Keep it well between light to moderate. Never, ever exercise to the point of exhaustion or fatigue. You will not win an Olympic medal for that. Not even a standing ovation. Twenty minutes of mild to moderate exercise three times a week is enough. Your list of exercises can include cycling (stationary bike), swimming, water aerobics, dancing, Pilates relaxation and walking. Exercise improves circulation for you and your baby.

The tips given here should never substitute the advice given to you by your doctor or obstetrician. Lastly, don't forget to enjoy each day of this memorable and happy time in your life.