Library of Frequently Asked Questions
Diet and exercise during pregnancy
Eating a well-balanced diet during pregnancy is especially important. Protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals are essential and can be obtained by eating the right kind of foods. Pregnant women are advised to increase their daily intake by between three hundred to five hundred calories a day. On average, doctors suggest that women gain between twenty-five and thirty-five pounds during a normal pregnancy.
Avoid alcohol and other drugs and talk with your physician before taking any type of medication. Your doctor will also probably ask you to stop or cut back on any food or drink that contains caffeine. If you smoke, consider giving it up. Smoking has been linked to low birth weight and premature delivery.
Moderate physical activity during pregnancy is now considered not only safe, but extremely beneficial for most expectant mothers and their babies. Be sure to check with your doctor first to make sure that exercise is safe for your particular pregnancy, especially if you were not on a regular exercise program before becoming pregnant.
There are a variety of exercises that are beneficial during pregnancy, such as walking, swimming in shallow water, cycling on a stationary bike, calisthenics (kal-is-then-iks) designed especially for pregnancy, golfing, and relaxation routines. Exercise can relieve backaches, prevent constipation and varicose veins, strengthen your body for childbirth, and leave you in better shape after the baby is born.
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