Right Way to Motherhood

Right Way to Motherhood

Exercise and Eat Sensibly during Pregnancy and you will enjoy the experience.

Pregnancy is a roller coaster ride for any women. While there is joyous excitement in anticipation of the new arrival, a women's body undergoes dramatic changes. Coping with these transformations is a big challenge and staying fit during pregnancy is crucial for both child and mother.

One of the major causes of health complications in pregnancy is excessive weight gain. Increased appetite due to hormonal changes, and reduced physical activity can contribute to this. A woman with a normal body-Mass Index (BMI) should gain around 12-14 kgs in the nine-month gestation period.

Dr. Sarita Kapoor, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Getwell Medical Center, Bur Dubai, says the main problems associated with excessive weight gain are pregnancy induced hypertension, which compromises blood supply to the foetus, and gestational diabetes, which can cause obese babies. The risk of life-threatening Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT) is also high in overweight pregnant women.

The idea diet for a mum-to-be should be high in protein and low in fat. In most cases, you just need to add 300 to 400 calories to your normal diet -- it is important to debunk the myth that a pregnant woman should eat for two, says Dr. Sarita Kapoor.

Normal Exercise

Pregnant Women can continue with their usual gym regime unless there are any complications. Not only does a workout make you feel better by releasing endorphins (naturally occurring chemicals in your brain), appropriate exercise can relieve backaches and improve your posture by strengthening and toning muscles in your back, buttocks and thighs. Cardio Exercises can also reduce constipation by accelerating movement in the intestines. It can prevent wear and tear of your joints, which become loosened during pregnancy due to normal hormonal changes, by activating the lubricating fluid in them. Exercise also increases the blood flow to your skin, giving you a healthy glow.

Article Published on Good Life with Lulu, Issue 8.