J.9/ Pregnancy Wellbeing
Preconception, conception, pregnancy, post-partum, there are many stages to pregnancy and throughout our requirements change. Your supplements will change and also your diet, it can be confusing with so much information out there, it’s always best to speak with a professional first.
Pregnancy not only changes our body but also it changes us as a person, after all you are growing another human being from scratch! Pregnancy and post-partum are hard work, you and your family are going through a lot of changes. Pre-conception is a time to get your health in order for you both, it takes two people to create a baby. Pre-conception care should be started at least three months prior to conception, this includes a pregnancy multivitamin for the female and a good quality multivitamin for the male. In these few months leading up to conception it’s important to eat a clean diet and reduce your toxin load on your body, this includes food but also cleaning and beauty products. Getting fresh blood tests for you both is a great idea as well that way we can address any nutrient deficiencies if there are any. Being aware of your cycle is helpful but not necessary, I can help guide you with knowing your ovulation day which is the perfect time for conception.
During your first trimester of pregnancy it’s not uncommon to feel nauseous and more fatigued. A lot of women can’t stomach a multivitamin, but there are ways around that, multivitamins can be kept in the fridge which help to reduce their odour, if you can’t take them with breakfast you could try with dinner and using a good quality practitioner only pregnancy multivitamin will help. Ginger and B6 can also be useful to combat nausea, some women also prefer savoury items and to snack rather than have huge portions. The fatigue that comes with the first trimester can be improved by the pregnancy multivitamin as it contains B Vitamins, eating a diet with lots of protein, greens and good fats will also help improve energy levels.
During pregnancy there are a few nutrients that can be helpful alongside a multivitamin. Magnesium can do wonders for those aches and pains, this can be used topically and taken as a supplement, Magnesium will also help with regular bowel movements. Fish oil is important for bub’s development and also can help as a anti-inflammatory for you. Probiotics should be taken in the second and last trimester to ensure good gut flora for you and bub.
Post-Partum or the forth trimester can be challenging for a lot of Mum’s, it’s an identity shift, your body healing, figuring out how to breastfeed and discovering life with your new baby, it’s hard emotionally and physically. Reach out to friends and family for support and help, there are breastfeeding hotlines and community midwives, don’t be afraid to ask for help during this time. Post-Partum it is so important to eat enough calories, ensure you’re eating enough protein, good fats, wholegrains, fruit and vegetables. Make sure you’re drinking ample water as this is will effect your milk supply if you’re dehydrated. Collagen and probiotics are must post-partum alongside your multivitamin.
Before, during, after pregnancy, each have their own requirements, challenges and joys. Nutrition plays a huge role in each stage, using supplements and dietary advice I can help you throughout your pregnancy.
