Just like there aren’t two mothers who are the same, and no two babies are the same, it is safe to say that there are not any two pregnancies that are alike. With that being said, you should not compare how you feel and look for other pregnant women (and even to your own previous pregnancies). In these 40 weeks, your body will transform before your eyes. To some women, this time may fly by, while for others it may seem like a slow journey. Although all women experience vastly different emotional and physical feelings, many women share the same fears and concerns. For every single day of these nine months, you should live confidently, and worry a little less about common myths and misconceptions. Here are some tips that you should remember all the time, especially during pregnancy:
• End your search for the perfect body, and begin your search for the perfect YOU!
• Your relationship with food should be about health, nourishment, and enjoyment.
• Feed your cravings.
• It is ok to have coffee, tea, soda, chocolate, cheese, fish, and more.
• You can continue to exercise.
• Remember that you, and your body, are “post-baby”
End your search for the perfect body, and begin your search for the perfect YOU! First off, let me say, if you are worried about what your body will look like during and after pregnancy, you are not alone. 78% of women surveyed have the very same fear, but remember, your weight, shape, and size do not determine who you are. It is important to find a meaningful identity, which can then promote a healthy body image.
The way your perceive yourself when you look in the mirror can affect the way you act, just as the way you act can affect what you see when you look in the mirror. On the cover of numerous magazines each month and even on TV, the media blasts coverage about the “perfect pregnancy body” or the “baby bump”. Again, remember that there is no such thing as perfect; each one is unique, so embrace your pregnancy body and your baby bump, and enjoy the ride!
Your relationship with food should be about health, nourishment, and enjoyment…not about restriction and guilt. Learn how to eat healthy during this time by listening to you body. Eat when you are hungry and stop when you are full. This will guarantee that both you and your baby will receive all the proper nutrients that are needed without the treacherous counting and keeping track of every morsel of food that you put into your mouth.
Feed your cravings. Believe it or not, your body is smarter than your mind. It can not only tell you when you need to eat, but also what you should eat. Do not think that you are just craving ice cream because you are pregnant…you may actually need what is in the ice cream. Each and every food contains important nutrients for a healthy pregnancy and for the growth of your baby. Despite what you may have practiced in the past, carbohydrates, protein, and fat, are all essential parts of a healthy diet. And trust me, your body will let you know when you need them!
It is ok to have coffee, tea, soda, chocolate, cheese, fish, and more. Despite the old wives tales and rumors, you can in fact enjoy most of the same foods and beverages that you did before you were pregnant. Caffeine and chocolate are perfectly fine in moderation. It is safe to have up to 16 ounces of coffee per day, and the amount of caffeine in chocolate is so little, that it too is acceptable for pregnant women. Most fish are safe to eat (there are only 4 that are off limits-tile fish, swordfish, king mackerel, and shark).
Again, it is important to listen to your body throughout pregnancy. Morning sickness is actually thought to be a naturally effect to deter you from off limit foods. If the smell of cheese makes you completely nauseous, then it’s probably not necessary for you to eat it during pregnancy.
You can continue to exercise. If exercise is enjoyable for you (and if your doctor approves), it is completely safe to participate in these activities. It is not recommended to start something new, but if you have always loved yoga, by all means continue to go to class. There are many other things that can be done during “down time” if exercising isn’t your thing, such as reading, catching up with friends or family members, and journaling, to name a few. It is important to find what is most relaxing and meaningful to you, so you make the most of this time to yourself.
Remember that you, and your body, are “post-baby”. Try not to obsess over getting your “pre-baby” body back. Your body will be different, and eventually it will get to where it should be after pregnancy. You should not bother with the past, but focus on the future that you have with your baby! Your relationship with food and your own body image can positively or negatively affect how your children perceive themselves. Be sure that you are making a good impression on them by loving yourself. Plus, you owe your body a special thank you for the amazing process that is undergoing.
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