Why is proper diet and exercise such an essential part of pregnancy?
Pregnancy is such an important part of many individuals’ lives weather they themselves get pregnant or their loved one. Many people get pregnant and about 3,800,000 women give birth annually! Although this can be a very exciting part of people’s lives today pregnancy-related illness such as gestational diabetes mellitus has been on the rise. About 2-4% of women in the United States are affected by GDM or the development of high blood glucose levels during pregnancy. A top priority in reducing the instances of GDM, and other pregnancy-related illnesses, is through educating women, mothers, and their loved ones on the importance of proper diet and exercise before and especially during pregnancy. This blog will aim to give diet and exercise tips for a woman who is expecting!
Protonate factors influencing the health of both a mother and their baby include stress levels, environment, diet, exercise, and emotional support. According to the American Pregnancy Association (a great resource to all mothers), proper exercise during pregnancy can result in a reduction of swelling during pregnancy, increase energy, improve mood, improve sleep, make labor easier, and prevent or treat gestational diabetes. Additionally, a proper diet can promote healthy weight gain and reduce the incidence of disease for both the mother and baby. Lastly, education on the risks of environmental factors such as smoking, alcohol or drug consumption has both on the mother and baby are very important due to the lasting effects on both individuals.
Overall, pregnancy should be a fun, rewarding and memorable time for both the mother, baby, and loved ones. With these tips and tricks on how to eat well, exercise in a safe way, and treat a pregnant body with care we aim to reduce to risk of illness and spread awareness regarding health during pregnancy!
Exercise/Diet During Pregnancy 