Mid-Michigan Moms is thrilled to partner with McLaren Lapeer Region and McLaren Flint to bring you Navigating Your Pregnancy, an editorial series event. In this installment of our Editorial Series Collection, McLaren, and the #MidMichiganMoms team share fifteen different posts addressing all aspects of life as a pregnant woman. From humor to stories of perseverance, no topic is left off the table. Tune in, learn, share, and join the conversation!
You’re pregnant. Time to eat anything you want, right? Think again.
After years of watching my diet, I really wanted to look at my pregnancy as a free pass to indulge in all of my favorite things. As luck would have it, I wasn’t plagued with morning sickness and absolutely every food item sounded amazing. I mean everything – from sweet to savory, I wanted to eat it! Unfortunately, that’s not how it works. Proper nutrition is key to a healthy pregnancy.
Yes, your pregnant body needs more calories than you would normally consume. According to the American Pregnancy Association, 300 extra calories per day in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters is generally the benchmark. So, no, it’s not like a free pass at an all-you-can-eat buffet with unlimited amounts and options. Your body needs some TLC. And proper nutrition and exercise are a major part of pregnancy self-care.
Yes, exercise too. Not only is your body growing a human {which is an amazing feat in and of itself} but it’s preparing for the workout of its life, too. Childbirth is intense, and the better you are prepared for it physically, the easier it will be for you both before and after birth.
Now, this isn’t the time to embark upon a brand new exercise regime. If you’re thinking about doing this, start slowly and talk to your doctor about what is best.
If you’ve maintained a consistent exercise schedule prior to pregnancy, you should more than likely be able to continue it to some extent, under the care of your primary medical professional. General guidelines to exercise may be found on the American Pregnancy Association’s website, here.
When it comes to nutrition and exercise, your own doctor will guide you through everything that you need. Each pregnancy is different, and every person is different when it comes to our specific needs and even potential restrictions. Maybe you’re having twins. You might be so sick that you can’t even fathom eating more than a piece of plain toast or sipping some ginger ale without vomiting {I’ve been there, I get it!}. Or perhaps you’ve suffered a previous miscarriage and are terrified to exercise for fear that it might hurt your baby. These are all legitimate questions and concerns that your doctor will address with you as needed.
Pregnancy cravings are real. The need for rest is real, too. Having been through three pregnancies myself, I can confidently tell you that cravings and rest can happily co-exist with proper nutrition and exercise. It’s a happy marriage that is so beneficial for your baby, and great for your own body not only during, but after pregnancy as well.
