Joy in Birthing

Just because you are pregnant doesn’t mean that you should literally eat for two. Many women, although not all, have a definite increase of appetite, once pregnant. It is fine to increase the amount you eat, as long as you eat healthy and well-balanced meals. Especially during the holidays, being pregnant does not give you an automatic green light for all the fats or sweets you can put your hands on. Don’t get me wrong; do enjoy a large piece of pie: just don’t substitute such “empty” calories food for the needed protein, vegetables, and grain. You want to increase your intake of calcium with milk, dairy products or green, leafy vegetables.

Water

The recommended amount of water during pregnancy is at least two quarts or eight to ten glasses, every day. That is what is recommended for most people, however now that you are pregnant you really need to pay more attention to your fluid intake. Pregnant women get easily dehydrated which could cause a few complications. If you don’t like plain water, add fruit juice to your water (make sure is 100% fruit juice– you don’t need extra sugar), or squeeze lemon or orange juice into your water bottle. Don’t substitute soda for any of the recommended fluid servings; beware especially of the caffeine hidden in some clear sodas. Gatorade or other kinds of electrolyte drinks are fine in moderation, but they contain high amounts of sodium (i.e. salt) and potassium.

Cravings

Let’s talk craving. You will find that you wake up in the middle of the night and simply must have fish and chips! It is thought that food cravings during pregnancy represent a way for women to get the extra nutrients their bodies need. Mother Nature in her perfection makes sure we provide our growing child with exactly what he/she needs. Many women crave meat (extra protein) and a particular vegetable or salad. Your innate common sense should help you understand that your cravings for ice cream may mean your baby is asking for more fat in your diet, or more calcium and protein. Be careful, though; don’t let cravings for high fat foods or sweets get out of hand.

Salt

As a rule, pregnant women don’t need to change the amount of salt in their diet. Most of us tend to include far more salt in our diets than we need. Consult your doctor, and avoid high-salt-foods like chips and canned goods. Don’t add salt when you cook. Envision your baby eating exactly what you put in your mouth. Give her plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy snacks, and talk to him as you do this, “My love, how would you like a juicy fresh peach!”