New at this

Hiya Family and friends, I'm not very big on blogging, but thought, "What will it hurt?" I have information I'd like to share with family and friends, and figured this was one of the best ways of doing so.
I decided my first blog should be an important one, seeing as I have many family members and friends who are currently pregnant. I just want to share a few things I've learned over the years about Pregnancy, Health and the babies within our bodies/the bodies of those you love. I know sometimes it's hard to see your body going through these changes.



First off, a dear friend sent me this email:
The importance of good nutrition for easier birthing and the health for the remainder of the child's life cannot be underestimated. Good nutrition is the single most important means of avoiding toxemia, pre-clampsia, mispositioned babies, and the need for interventions during birthing. Healthy, well0nourished mothers birth healthy babies. Healthy babies are strong and better able to play their role in easier birthing. The body during pregnancy is like a valuable piece of equipment that needs absolute maintenance for good, easy performance. These are not just suggestions, they are MUSTS.

1. Eliminate ALL unnecessary fat - fast foods, and fried foods - particularly French fries.
2, Salt to taste - Celtic of Mediterranean salt. Pregnant moms need salt.
3. Consume lots of Protein - 75 to 90 grams a day, taken in several snacks or light meals.

Sources of Protein: eggs, eggs, eggs (daily); cottage cheese, lean red meats, chicken, cheese (except soft cheeses - Brie/Camembert), milk, ice cream, yogurt, cream cheese etc.

4. Go for greens - green leafy lettuce (iceberg lettuce is useless), vegetables, salads, avocado, spinach (limited quantities) - it is rich in iron, but can inhibit assimilation of calcium), green beans, broccoli, asparagus, peas squash, peppers, celery, cabbage, bok choy, kale, chard, mustard and other greens.
5. Wipe out whites - avoid refined sugar, white flour products, white rice, white potatoes, and white baked goods. Choose whole grains instead. (Red-skinned and yellow/gold potatoes are nutritionally the same as white potatoes - avoid them.)
6. Opt for oranges - squash, yams, and sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, oranges, peaches, apricots.
7. Drink LOTS of water (especially before doctor's appointments near term.)

At least 36 oz, more is better! Have a jug to measure your water intake, because it is easier to abide by that than taking it in by glasses of water through the day - then you'll know if you're getting enough. A rule of thumb, a nurse once told me, drink a lot and if you think you've had enough, drink more.

8. Delve into fruits and berries - strawberries, blueberries, (especially good), honeydew melon, watermelon, kiwi, grapes, apples, pineapple, cherries, bananas, pears. (Fresh and dried fruits make great snacks.)
9. Increase the intake of fish oil - Omega 3 fatty acids are essential. Fish is one of the most beneficial proteins that you can consume 0 particularly salmon. (Be aware of the safety issues involving the mercury content of the fish, especially tuna, shark, swordfish and others. Avoid all raw fish and oysters.) Omega 3 fatty acids can be obtained from Evening Primrose Oil capsules.

I also learned from our instructor that if you mix (I can get the ratio for you if you'd like) but if you mix olive oil and grapefruit juice that is a great way to get your Omega 3 fatty acid as well.

10. Reach for roughage - consuming a good amount of fiber can help to keep your bowels regular and fend off hemorrhoids. Most fruits, vegetables and whole grains will supply fiber and also help keep blood sugar levels stable and lower bad cholesterol.
11. Liquids other than water - fruit juices are good, but they do not replace the need for water. Avoid carbonated drinks; NEVER drink diet drinks, caffeine or alcohol.
12. Seeds, grains, and nuts - are good sources of protein and other nutrients. (Choose raw or dry roasted, and avoid those roasted in oil.)

Remember, in the end it's these sweet little beings that you are bringing into this world. This is my Taylor when she was a couple hours old.

Well anyways, Until next time!!!