It is quite natural to feel stress and anxiety during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, try to practice relaxation techniques or join a prenatal yoga or exercise class that should have a three- fold benefit on you - physical, mental and emotional. Meditationrelaxes your mind and body by enhancing blood circulation to all parts of the body. It also increases the oxygen utilization of the body cells and reduces stress.
Heavy exercising is not recommended for pregnant women but gentle or moderate exercises, such as walking, will be beneficial. walk at least 15 to 20 minutes every day at a steady and consistent speed in a good environment. Feet generally get tired and swollen during pregnancy. A refreshing foot gel with menthol will help you to get rid of it.
A pregnant woman has to eat enough to provide all the nutritional food for her and also for her growing child. Most practitioners recommend 300 extra calories per day .Ensure that your food is hygienic and preferably consists of: carbohydrates are rich in roti, bread, cereal, rice and pasta. Vegetables are high in fiber and low in fat. They are a good source of vitamin A, C, folic acid, iron and other minerals. Fruits are rich in vitamin A, C and potassium, as well as high in fiber
Milk, yogurt and cheese are a great source of protein, calcium and vitamins
Protein food includes meat, poultry, fish, beans, eggs and nuts. Make sure to choose lean meats and cut away the surrounding fat.
Don't smoke and don’t expose yourself to second-hand smoke. Don’t take alcohol.
Ensure that you go to bed at the same time every night. This makes your body on a schedule. Get sufficient sleep-at least eight hours a day. Try to sleep on left side, as it would give adequate oxygen supply to your fetus.
Skin is under a lot of pressure during pregnancy especially in the abdominal area. Massaging your bump with a tummy massage gel will keep skin supple and elastic in areas that leads to stretch marks skin may become oily and sensitive due to hormonal changes, use mild products and avoid products with harsh chemicals such as AHAs and Glycolic acids.
For younger skin and good health, eat fruits and vegetablesrich in anti-oxidants. According to this study, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, the 20 most antioxidant-rich foods are as follows: Small red beans (dried), Wild blueberries, Red kidney beans (dried), Pinto beans, Blueberries, can berries, Artichoke hearts (cooked), blue berries, dried prunes, ras berries, straw berries, granny smith apple, red delicious apple, pecans, sweet cherries, black plum, russet potato (cooked), black beans, plum, gala apple.
Omega-3-fatty acids
Omega – 3 fatty acids are present in some types of fishes and are commonly known for their various health benefits, especially, improving the functioning of cardiovascular system.
