Is anyone else ready for winter weather? I am. I can't believe a year ago I was pregnant at this time. I truly feel for many of my clients that are pregnant right now in this heat. Every single pregnancy of mine was always in its final months in the summer time with due dates ranging from July to October, but I don't recall summers like this one
By this time, I was always low on energy, which truly became inconvenient when chasing around toddler(s). Here are my tips for increasing energy:
Moderate Exercise: Such as a 30 minute walk, or swimming increases my energy. The toughest part is getting out and doing it. I promise you won't regret it. Not only that, but exercise will boost your mood and has tons of health benefits like making birth easier and decreasing other pregnancy woes like constipation!
Keep your bedroom dark and cool: We sleep better and more efficiently in complete darkness because our melatonin levels increase to their proper levels to get the best sleep. Our bodies prefer cooler temperatures as well and will stay asleep longer if temps are cool.
Avoid caffeine after morning time: For some reason my body is more sensitive to caffeine when I'm pregnant and keeps me awake at night. Sometimes I avoid it completely, but especially in the first trimester.
Drink lots of water and try to avoid sugar: Our bodies need water to thrive, and sugar while initially gives us energy, but then we crash hard.
Make sure you're eating a balanced diet and your prenatal vitamin: There are special vitamins such as iron and B vitamins that we need more of during pregnancy in order for both mama and baby to be at their best.
Please make sure to communicate to your OBGYN if you're feeling abnormally tired. You could have a medical condition. Also, if you have an induction or c-section date, please inform your local Houston newborn photographer.