So I’m more than half way there!! It’s interesting how there are very similar health “regiments” that pregnant women have to follow yet the truth is we ALL need to follow them too. Use prevention, and avoid these even if you’re not pregnant (or trying to get pregnant or want to avoid unnecessary diseases).
Inadequate Sleep. Lack of sleep wrecks havoc on the body. It leads to weight gain (from craving food), heart disease, type II diabetes, premature aging, impaired judgment, high cholesterol, etc. During pregnancy, sleep helps with postpartum depression, healthier birth, shorter labor, etc.
Lack of Movement. Exercise is so important because it reduces stress, improves circulation, prevents diseases, improves metabolism, promotes weight loss, balances blood sugar, improves sleep, etc. During pregnancy, it prepares us for childbirth, reduces discomfort, gets our body back faster after childbirth, etc.
Eating Too Much. Overeating causes inflammation which leads to weight gain, diseases, and annoying digestive issues. During pregnancy, many think they need to eat for two but they only need an extra 300 calories per day (a little more in the 3rd trimester and dependent on your pre-pregnancy weight). Don’t forget to load up on the fruits and vegetables for the necessary fiber/antioxidants/vitamins for the health of you and the baby.
Giving Up Comfort Foods. I don’t believe in dieting and restricting. That mentality only makes us want it even more and if we completely deny ourself, then we become stress. Stress is never a solution. Learn how to re-frame your relationship with food. We need the treats from time to time. Although eating right is essential during pregnancy, we do need to give in to some cravings.
Ignoring Emotional Health. Our emotional health is just as important if not more important than our physical health. Putting yourself last on the list is the best way to gain weight and acquire diseases. Make sure you make time for self-care especially during pregnancy. Ask for help and get support. That’s why I’m a health coach.
Lack of Bonding. As humans, oxytocin is our bonding and happy hormone. This is the antidote to cortisol, which is our stress hormone. Go out and bond with others. During pregnancy, it’s important to rub and talk to your baby. It creates a bond and she learns to recognize your voice.
Limit/Eliminate Caffeine, Alcohol, and Cigarettes. It’s a good idea to limit caffeine and alcohol. This disrupts our sleep, leeches minerals through urine, and can become our addiction/crutch. During pregnancy, the baby can’t handle these so best to just eliminate to increase your chances of a healthy baby, avoid premature birth, etc.
Learn how to eat right for your body without deprivation and denial. If you’re pregnant, start building good habits now and be a super role model for your children. What you eat during pregnancy directly affects the health of your future child. Avoid fad diets and do what truly works in the long run for you and your family.
Sign up for a free health consultation and see if this is the right match for you. Get healthy without fad diets, torture, and make it last forever. (619) 876-2655 www.happyfoodhealth.com
~Samantha Hua, Nutrition & Health Coach, San Diego, CA
