February 2022 - Prega News | Pregnancy Test | Pregnancy Test at Home | Pregnancy Test Kit

Pregnancy myths that women need to stop believing

Congratulations! Now that you have seen the two pink lines on the Prega News test kit, it’s time to celebrate the upcoming arrival of the new addition to your family. When the pregnancy test kit confirms your pregnancy, it is also the time to check-in with your doctor and get all the recommended tests and advice that you would need during this time. This is also a time of learning and unfortunately there are plenty of pregnancy myths out there that you are sure to come across whether through others or through some source. However, Prega News makes it easy for you to stay informed during this time by busting the most common pregnancy myths. So let’s take a look!

Common pregnancy myths

Doctor guide to pregnant women for common pregnancy myth that she should believe

Ranging from how to tell the baby’s gender to how much hair your baby will have – there are myths about everything surrounding pregnancy and childbirth. Here are the most common ones to stay aware about. Learning more about facts and less about myths can help you maintain a healthy pregnancy with peace of mind. So read on to know more about these myths and if there’s any truth to them!

        Start eating for two
Perhaps the most common myth out there is that the moment you are pregnant, you should start eating for two. This is not only not true but can also be harmful for you as excessive weight gain can impact both you and your baby’s health. In fact, it is normal to keep the same intake of calories or some more during the first trimester. Even in the later stages, it is not advised to eat for two but gradually increase the calorie intake, a number that is decided by taking into account your health and your pre-pregnancy weight. Eating right and
eating healthy during pregnancy is what is most important! And in today’s world, your doctor will likely recommend you to a dietician to better understand what and how much to eat during this time.

Pregnant Women having drink fruits, juices for her and a baby inside the womb

        Exercise pregnancy myths
You shouldn’t do any exercise during pregnancy – haven’t you heard that already? The most common misconception is that one shouldn’t do any physical exercise when pregnant. However, unless the doctor has specifically prescribed bed rest due to some bodily conditions, it is advisable to include some form of exercise or the other in your daily routine. From yoga and walking to swimming – there’s a plethora of exercises you can do to stay healthy. Just make sure to check-in with your doctor before you start anything new and your doctor will be able to guide you on physical activities depending on the needs, your previous habits and the stage of pregnancy.

        What you had before you knew you were pregnant can harm your baby
For the first weeks after conception, many women may not be aware of their pregnancy and may have had a glass of wine or some exotic food or even an over-the-counter drug. However, doctors say that the ill effects’ causing substances are under a limited list and many of these things may have no impact at all. However, to be on the safe side, inform your doctor of all your worries as soon as you find out you are pregnant, so your doctor can help you alleviate those worries.

        No sex during pregnancy
Having sex during pregnancy can hurt your baby – it’s time to debunk this myth. While some postures may be uncomfortable,
sex during pregnancy is absolutely okay as per doctors. You can ask your doctor for any precautions or safe positions but do not shy away from intimate time with your partner.

        You can miscarry if you lift heavy objects, take the stairs or do exercises
According to doctors, miscarriages can be caused by various hormonal and other factors and not by doing regular activities. As long as you stick to what’s comfortable to you and not engage in high-risk adventures like horse-racing and sky-diving etc., you should be fine. As your centre of gravity shifts during this time, you are prone to be imbalanced, so it’s better to be cautious during any activity.

Man tightly holding a pregnant women

        Big bellies have difficult deliveries
Another unfounded myth – your belly size doesn’t determine what type of birth you will have or how easy or difficult it will be. The additional weight gain can depend on many factors like your body weight, water retention etc. and a big belly doesn’t always signify a big baby.

        Avoid all seafood during pregnancy
Many women are asked to completely cut down on seafood during pregnancy. The risk of mercury and thus fish like king mackerel and swordfish should be avoided. It is also best to avoid raw fish during this time, unless your doctor gives you a go-ahead on the same. Consult your doctor for what to eat and what not to eat during this time, without paying heed to myths.

        Heartburn indicates that baby will have full head of hair
Doctors agree that heartburn only indicates that you ate something which caused indigestion and you should watch your diet to avoid it. Avoiding spicy, fried food and big meals, can significantly reduce heartburn during pregnancy and your baby can still have a normal amount of hair!

        Avoid all caffeine completely
According to gynaecologists, one or two servings of caffeine is absolutely safe during pregnancy unless you have some other conditions like heartburn, which may be worsened by hot drinks.

Key Takeaway 

As explained above, it’s best to verify all the information that you come across when you are pregnant before implementing them. People love sharing stories and may be more than eager to give you a fair share of their experiences or what they might have heard. However, this can be misinformation or simply cause anxiety so it’s better to make a list of things to ignore when you are pregnant, with myths topping the list. Always get verified information from your doctor or physician before you start or stop anything new.

FAQ

What kinds of things should a woman avoid during pregnancy?

While there are some dietary and physical restrictions like avoiding mercury-rich fish or not trying adventure sports, most things are considered okay for pregnant women. However, it is important to check-in with your doctor to get a complete list of your diet, activities and more when you are pregnant, as they would be the best person to guide. Moreover, harmful things like alcohol, tobacco or recreational drugs should be avoided completely, and not even inhaled second-hand.

Is pregnancy cravings a myth?

Cravings are caused by hormonal changes in your body which in turn can affect your taste and smell, thus increasing or decreasing the appetite for some foods. However, it is a myth to believe that all women will get weird cravings during pregnancy.

Do we get negative thoughts during pregnancy?

It is normal to have negative thoughts at any point in time – during pregnancy these negative thoughts can be caused by hormonal changes, or excessive worrying about the baby’s well-being, childbirth and the new role of the mother. However, it’s important to seek help and resolve these issues by talking to a specialist in order to enjoy a healthy pregnancy, both physically and mentally.

What are the common myths and facts about pregnancy?

Not getting exercise, eating for two and avoiding sex are some of the common myths about pregnancy. However, the fact is that one should eat healthy and exercise during pregnancy for the proper weight gain and not excessive weight gain. Your doctor is the best person to determine exactly how many extra calories you need during pregnancy and how active you should be during this time. Doctors also say that sex during pregnancy is absolutely okay when done with certain precautions like avoiding risky postures etc. 

How to prepare for pregnancy in the late 30s?

Every couple who’s trying to get pregnant, will keep an anxious eye on the Prega news test kit when they think they are pregnant. While for some the two pink lines on the Prega News test may show up early, for others it may take a little longer to succeed at trying to get pregnant. Many factors that affect fertility increase with age, and women in their early to late 30s may have a more challenging journey to pregnancy than their younger counterparts. However, the numbers vary and while there’s no specific thumb rule to determine one’s chances of getting pregnant, there are significant studies that have been done to study the fertility rates among women when they hit the milestone of 30. The good news is that, even in your 30s, there’s a significant chance of getting a positive Prega News test result, when you follow all the health advice and lead a healthy lifestyle. The risk in pregnancy after 30s has also been widely discussed which can make many women anxious, but as more and more women are choosing a later pregnancy than earlier times, it’s important to learn more about this, rather than believing myths and hearsay. Pregnancy after 30s can also be a joyful thing – so here’s more on what to expect when planning or being pregnant in your 30s!

 Chances of getting pregnant in your 30s

The woman’s most fertile period to conceive is considered to be the 20s but all is not lost when it comes to planning a pregnancy in the 30s. While age does decrease fertility, your chances of conceiving in your early 30s is only slightly lower than your 20s. However, the chances of getting pregnant in your late 30s or post 35 are significantly reduced, although not absolutely impossible. With proper diet and lifestyle and medical advice, it is still possible to have a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby in your 30s. In fact, many studies suggest that couples trying for a year in their early 30s have a 86% chance of getting pregnant. However, women in their mid-30s and later 30s can take a longer time to conceive. Doctors suggest seeking help if you have been trying unsuccessfully for over six months at a time.

Preparing for Pregnancy in Late 30s : Things to know

 Pros and Cons of conceiving in 30s

 Many women consider their 30s to be an ideal period for motherhood. There are many pros of having a child during this time. Financially you are more stable and emotionally you are deeply connected with your partner. Women in their 30s are still energetic and resilient and thus make active parents. It is also a more mature age and many women feel they have a better understanding of themselves and their relationship at this stage, all of which make for a better parenthood experience both for the parents and the children.

 On the flip side, getting pregnant in your late 30s is more difficult than at an earlier stage and can pose some physical as well as psychological problems. Some may even feel a drop in their energy levels and may find their peers with older kids, thus feeling socially awkward or feeling isolated. A later pregnancy also increases chances of complications by 20%, thus scaring many women.

Things must do while planning to get pregnant

 Like everything else in life, a couple’s pregnancy should also be carefully planned. After all, this is a journey of a lifetime and one must ensure that they take every step to make it an enjoyable, healthy and successful one. When you are planning to get pregnant, it’s best to ask your doctor for a complete health check-up for the same. Apart from monitoring regular health and fertility, this is also an opportunity to rule out any genetic illnesses etc. Your doctor will also help you lead a better lifestyle by eating right, exercising and quitting any ill habits. This is the time to be in the best shape for a healthy baby and pregnancy. It is also a time to be in your best mental health, so have open communication with your partner about everything and seek a professional’s help if you are too bogged down by pregnancy worries and have anxiety about the same.

 Chance of success

 At 35, most women have a 15 to 20 percent chance of getting pregnant in a given month. That could mean a 78 percent chance of conceiving within the year.

 Motherhood is a wonderful and life-changing experience that should be enjoyed with peace of mind and with a healthy body. Thus, it is one decision which should not be rushed into and should be taken when both you and your partner are on the same page and in good physical and emotional and mental health. Pregnancy planning is an important step and involves many short-term and long-term discussions like assessing fertility, physical health, emotional health, financial security and much more. Even though natural conception chances decrease in the late 30s and early 40s, the advancement of medical science has made it possible for women to experience motherhood even in later ages. Thus, this is one step which should be taken after careful consideration and consultation with both your partner and your doctor.

 FAQ

 How can I have a healthy pregnancy in late 30s?

 Apart from getting early checks about genetic disorders and other medical conditions, one must follow a very healthy lifestyle when pregnant in late 30s. As the chances of complications go up, one must stay in constant touch with their doctor and follow all the medical advice on food, exercise and other things.

 Is 37 too old to get pregnant?

 Although a woman’s chances of getting pregnant naturally after 35 is significantly reduced, it is not impossible to conceive at 37. When you are planning to get pregnant, it’s best to get in touch with your doctor and get all the routine checks done so they can tell you the best way forward.

Is being pregnant at 39 high risk?

While the chances of complications do go up in the late 30s, it is possible to have a healthy pregnancy at any stage. With regular check-ups, pre pregnancy planning and following your doctor’s advice at every step, you can ensure a healthy pregnancy and childbirth. Your doctor may suggest changes like bed rest, less strenuous work, more calming environment etc. to make sure that you have a healthy pregnancy.

How long does it take to conceive in your 30s?

While the numbers do indicate a drop in fertility rates in early and late 30s, the actual time taken to conceive will vary from one individual to another. Most couples find success within a year of trying and doctors suggest getting in touch with a specialist in the first six months, if you are unsuccessful. With the right lifestyle and other health check-ups, your doctor will be able to give you a more accurate timeline of when to expect getting pregnant. It is also dependent on an individual’s health so it’s best to see your gynaecologist for the complete check-up and the best way forward.

 

How does the pregnancy due date calculator work?

When you see the two pink lines on the Prega News pregnancy test kit, you start thinking about the day you will hold your little one in your arms. For every expectant couple, that’s the day they embrace the new role in their lives and embark on the journey of parenthood. Luckily, Prega News offers you a due date calculator that can help you get a better idea of when to expect your newborn’s arrival. After the pregnancy test kit use, you can check on the calculator to get an estimate of your due date – this date is calculated by factoring in various things. And if you are wondering when to take the pregnancy test calculator, you can take it as soon as you find out that you are pregnant! Let’s take a deeper dive into it, to understand the pregnancy test date calculator.

Determining the Date of Conception

 Conception is the day when it is estimated that you become pregnant. However, this is always an estimated date as determining the exact date of conception is not possible as pinpointing the exact ovulation period can be a challenge. So the date of conception is calculated as eleven to twenty one days after the first day of your last period. Some may give an estimate of two weeks after the first day of your last period. This date is the time when your ovulation is likely to occur and when your chances of getting pregnant are at the highest. This is considered to be the most fertile window in a woman’s menstrual cycle, and as such is considered as the date of conception. Another way to determine this is tracking your ovulation symptoms or using ovulation test strips to keep a track of your ovulation period.

Pregnant woman is checking the conception date
Pregnant women determining the date of Conception

Determining the Estimated Due Date

 As pregnancies last around 40 weeks from the date of start of last periods or 38 weeks from the date of conception, the estimated due date is calculated by adding 280 days to the first day of your last menstrual period. Most doctors and physical practitioners will use this calculation to determine the estimated due date of your baby. However, this is still an estimate or an approximate date and not the exact date of your delivery. Your doctor will also use other methods like ultrasound scans, calculating when the baby’s heartbeat is heard for the first time, when movement is felt for the first time and more to give you a better estimate of the due date. As you progress along your pregnancy, your doctor will keep you updated on when to expect the baby’s arrival.

 How does it work?

 The pregnancy test calculator or due date calculator uses the date of your last menstrual cycle and your average cycle length to determine the approximate date of ovulation, and thus the estimated date of conception. To the date of conception, 38 weeks are added or 280 days are added to the first day of your last menstrual cycle to calculate the estimated due date of your baby.

 How accurate is it?

 Any due date calculator is always an estimated due date and not an exact date, as there can be many factors affecting the same. It is based on an estimatationof your ovulation period and thus your date of conception. However, the ovulation period can be amiss by a few days, thus offering an estimated due date. Moreover, as you advance in your pregnancy, many factors like the baby’s growth, your vitals like blood pressure, sugar etc. will help estimate the due date more clearly. Your doctor will also suggest tests and check the baby’s growth to come up with a due date.

 Key takeaway

 While the due date calculator can be used to get an approximate due date, only your doctor will be able to give you the closest possible date. Even with all the tests, ultrasound scans and health check-ups, the practitioners can give an approximate date  for the baby’s arrival. The due date is estimatedto give you an idea of the week or days to watch for symptoms like water breakage, discharge etc., in which case you should immediately contact the doctor. It is also a good idea to keep a hospital bag ready a few days before the due date, so you are always prepared to check-in for the birth of your baby, without any last minute hassles.

 FAQ

 How do you calculate pregnancy weeks from the due date?

You can subtract 38 weeks from your due date to calculate the approximate day you became pregnant

 Why do doctors add 2 weeks to pregnancy?

 As the exact date of ovulation cannot be determined exactly, the two weeks are added to make up for the time between the first day of your last period and the expected date of conception. The expected date of conception is calculated as per the ovulation period which occurs approximately two weeks after the first day of your last period.

Can you find out the exact day you got pregnant?

It is very difficult to determine the exact date when you got pregnant. If you have been using an ovulation tracker or an ovulation test strip, you can get the date which is the most approximate date of you getting pregnant as this is considered to be the most fertile window. However, even with all this information at hand, one can only calculate an approximate date of conception.

How accurate is the due date?

The due date is always an approximate date and your doctor will be able to give you a more accurate one, depending on your tests and ultrasound scans. Moreover, as you advance in your pregnancy, many factors can determine the due date of the baby’s arrival. You can use the due date to be better prepared for your baby’s arrival by having the hospital bag ready, setting up the nursery and shopping for your baby’s essentials well before the D-day.

Can my due date change in third trimester?

Yes, as with all things in nature, your due date too can change at any given point and even in your third trimester. Keep checking-in with your doctor and keep an eye out for any physical changes, pain or urge to pee more frequently, to understand when you should contact your doctor immediately, as these symptoms can tell you that your baby is ready to meet you! 

Few exercises that may help you deal with stress during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey in the life of every woman as it leads up to the moment you hold in your hands your little one. While some have relatively easy pregnancies, others have pregnancies with physical difficulties like morning sickness and back ache. While your doctor will help you keep in check the unpleasant experiences, you can also make this journey more enjoyable by managing stress during pregnancy. Apart from the physical changes, your body also undergoes hormonal changes and all the pregnancy and birth thoughts and other changes can cause undue mental stress during this time. At Prega News, we believe this journey should be celebrated with ease and every moment should be enjoyed, so here are some tips on how to manage stress during pregnancy.

Issues which can cause anxiety and stress during pregnancy

 While there’s no universal thumb rule about what can cause stress or anxiety during pregnancy, there are some concerns that mostly affect almost all pregnant women during this time. Whether you face these or not, it’s good to be aware of the common causes of stress during this time, so you can recognize them in time and get the help needed to make it easier on you.  

        Worrying about giving birth: A common question worrying many moms-to-be out there is the experience of giving birth and what it’s going to be like. Whether you opt for natural birth or C-section birth, anxiety around childbirth is normal. However, to alleviate your stress you can talk to your doctor or midwife, who can walk you through the process of giving birth. It’s something many around you have encountered including your mom and other relatives. So a heart-to-heart talk with them can also put you at ease.

        Worrying about the baby’s health: Many women also worry about their baby’s health and whether it’s going to be a healthy baby. However, the good news is that your doctor will schedule regular check-ups and ultrasounds so you can check-in with your baby and see if everything is okay. Many treatable ailments can be detected right at the beginning so you give birth to a healthy baby. With the right precautions and care, you will have a healthy and happy pregnancy.

        Getting back the pre-pregnancy body: Another cause of stress may be the additional weight gain and questions about how to lose the same post-delivery. It’s important to take one step at a time. During pregnancy, the focus should be on eating right and healthy for the healthy growth of your baby. Your body is undergoing a major change and pulling off one of nature’s miracles so it’s important to embrace this change with open arms. Post-birth, you can consult dieticians and sign up for special classes that can help you lose the baby weight with a healthy diet and right exercises.

        Work stress in pregnancy: Today’s women are also plagued by questions about their career when they decide to embark on the journey of motherhood. They may be worried about transferring work when they go on leave or how to resume work post the maternity leave and how all of this can impact their career growth. Again, it’s important to focus on yourself and your baby at this time. Moreover, you can have an open conversation about your queries and worries with your employer so you can decide the way forward keeping both parties in mind.

        Worrying about being a good mother: As you prepare to take on a new role in life, it’s normal to feel certain levels of anxiety about the same. You may be worrying about bonding with your baby or being a good mom – but there is wisdom in accepting that it will all settle in with time. It’s a learning experience for everyone involved and you too will learn to understand your baby and give them the  best.

 Emotional stress during pregnancy

 Pregnancy also brings in many hormonal changes which can cause stress, anxiety and mood swings in women. It’s good to be aware of these emotions so you can keep them in check. Financial planning, waiting for pregnancy check-up results – there’s an entire list of things which can cause emotional stress during this time, apart from the ones listed above. However, it’s important to remember that excess and prolonged stress or anxiety can negatively impact your baby’s well-being, so practice some techniques to keep the stress levels at a minimum. From home remedies like chamomile tea to talking to a therapist who can teach mental exercises to keep calm – you have a range of options when it comes to dealing with stress during pregnancy.  

Exercises for moms-to-be

It’s a good habit to stay physically active during pregnancy to stay healthy, both physically and mentally. Consult your doctor on when it’s safe to do exercises in your pregnancy and what kind of exercises you can do. Except in rare circumstances when the doctor advised bed rest, most pregnant women can continue to exercise during pregnancy. Prenatal yoga, light walking and swimming are some popular choices among women when choosing to exercise during pregnancy. If you were physically active pre-pregnancy with active gym hours or other exercises, you can consult your doctor on the same, who can suggest some advanced exercises for you. 

Pregnant woman is doing yoga to release stress

Relaxation techniques 

It’s important to know how to relax during pregnancy as excessive stress can impact your baby’s growth. If you have too much stress or anxiety, you can consider seeing a therapist who can teach you techniques to keep these emotions in check. Deep breathing, meditation, yoga and walking have been known to reduce stress. You can also try calming teas, body massages, a warm and even maintaining a diary to keep stress under control.

Key takeaway

Stress during pregnancy can be harmful to both you and your baby, so it’s important to learn more about the symptoms and how to treat them. Whatever may be the reason for your stress, there’s always a way to manage it effectively – through therapy, physical exercises, mental exercises and much more. So to ensure a healthy pregnancy and childbirth, it’s important to learn stress management.

 FAQ

How to deal with stress during pregnancy in the second trimester?

Whether it’s the first or second or third trimester, to deal with stress during pregnancy, you can try deep breathing and meditation. Other routines like a warm bath or a massage or indulging in some calming teas can also help. Talking about your stress with your partner or a friend is also important and can help calm you down. Don’t be afraid to seek professional help when the stress gets too much to handle.

How much stress is too much when pregnant?

It is advised to remain in a happy and calm state of mind during pregnancy for a healthy journey. However, a little stress is normal but if it gets too all-encompassing and you frequently find yourself worrying about things all through the day, it’s time to learn some anti-stress techniques like deep breathing, meditation and other mental exercises. If your stress is also causing anxiety, consider consulting a therapist for the same.

 How to manage work stress during pregnancy?

Talking to your employer openly about your concerns and workload can help you manage work stress. Make a list of your tasks and keep it in front of you so you know what to expect. Take frequent breaks during work and keep an open communication with co-workers. Do not be afraid to ask for help when needed and practice deep breathing while at the desk, to stay calm during work.

What are the natural ways to relax during pregnancy?

Meditation, deep breathing, getting proper sleep, doing light exercises and sipping on calming teas like chamomile, can help you relax during pregnancy. You can also try a prenatal massage or a warm bath to stay calm and relaxed during pregnancy. 

Postpartum Diet – Food to eat after delivery

As you deliver your baby and meet the little one for the first time, it’s a beautiful moment, one that you will cherish forever. It is also a moment when you promise the very best for your baby and love them fiercely. One way to do just that is by giving them the best of yourself and the best nutrition. And the best way to do so is by following a healthy and nutritious meal plan post-delivery. Here are some tips to help you do just that!

Foods to eat after delivery

After delivering your baby, your diet will become more accommodating and you can have almost everything that you like. However, the most important thing to remember is that you are fueling your body, helping it recover and also nourishing your newborn. So your plate should also be adequately filled with nutritional food that helps fulfill all these purposes. A list of foods to eat after delivery can help you do just that:

●   Vegetables: An essential part of every diet, vegetables can help add essential vitamins, minerals and fiber to your diet. Spinach, sweet potatoes, kale, leafy greens, carrots and beans – there are abundant choices when it comes to vegetables.

        Fruits: Again, another source of plenty of vitamins are fruits and you can choose from a wide array of options like citrus fruits, melons, mangoes, berries, bananas and many more.

        Whole grains: Whole grains are dense in essential nutrients and carbohydrates, they also keep you fuller for longer. Include oats, whole wheat, quinoa etc. in your diet for a healthy postpartum diet.

       Lean protein: Protein is another essential component for a lactating mother and lean proteins provide the essential nutrients without added fat. These can include fish, chicken and eggs. For vegetarians, you can try tofu, pulses, cottage cheese etc.

        Dairy: Multiple forms of dairy not only provide you with calcium but also pack in some proteins so ensure that you include milk, yoghurt, cheese etc. in your diet on regular basis.

        Healthy fats: Like other components, fats are also essential in every diet and you can choose nut butters and avocado to include healthy fats.

        Liquids: Staying hydrated is very important during this period so make sure to include plenty of milk, water and fresh fruit juices.

Apart from these, there are some Indian foods and spices that are considered superfoods for women, just after delivery. These include moringa leaves, sprouted grains, bottle gourd, dry fruits, fenugreek seeds, ajwain, turmeric, garlic, sesame seeds, edible gum or gondh, panjeeri, ginger and cumin seeds. As these are a part of everyday diet, you can also include them easily in your diet without much effort. 

Meal plan for postpartum period
foods to skip after childbirth

Foods to avoid after giving birth

While the postpartum diet is generally very non-restrictive, there are some things that should be avoided during this period. This is generally the same as your pregnancy diet – while wondering what not to eat, it’s a good practice to remember that what you eat gets passed on to your baby – this can help choose your foods.

        Alcohol: While alcohol is sometimes allowed post pregnancy if you have a few hours’ window between two breastfeeding sessions, it’s best avoided during this time.

        Caffeine: As their little stomachs still cannot digest complex groups of foods and caffeine, it’s best to avoid tea and coffee when breastfeeding your baby.

        Oily and spicy foods: These items can be tough to digest and can cause gas, acidity etc. which can be detrimental to your baby’s digestive system.

        Allergic foods: If there’s any history of food allergies in the past, it’s best to avoid those foods or consult your doctor before consuming it.

Postpartum nutrition

A good way to understand postpartum nutrition is understanding what it is and why it’s important. After you safely deliver your baby, it’s time to help your body recover and heal while taking care of your little one. Whether you’re breastfeeding or not, you will still need a lot of energy and the right nutrients to make recovery quick and easy.

As a breastfeeding mother, one will need approximately 400-500 calories more per day, compared with amount you were consuming before pregnancy. This number can change depending on overall health, height, weight and pregnancy weight gain. Your doctor can help you determine the right amount.

Postpartum nutrition is not just what you feed your body but also what you pass on to your newborn. Thus it’s essential to include all healthy food groups such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthy fats, dairy and protein.

Pregnant woman is having Postpartum nutrition

Pregnant Women say no to junk food when conceiving

Key takeaway

Thus the best way to remember more about postpartum nutrition is making sure you eat a little bit of everything that is considered healthy – vegetables, fruits, protein, healthy fats, grains etc. As long as you stay away from the foods to avoid during postpartum, there are very little restrictions on what you can and cannot eat post-delivery. Remember to enjoy your meals, feel nourished and healthy and give your body the best fuel for you and your baby.

FAQ

Why is good nutrition important for a mother after giving birth?

After giving birth, your body needs to recover and heal from the childbirth. Your body continues to work overtime as it heals and also nourishes your newborn. With good nutrition, you provide the right supplements for your body to heal and also give your newborn the right nutrients to stay nourished and build immunity and grow.

What are the best foods to eat after pregnancy?

After pregnancy, you should make up your diet plan with all the essential food groups like fats, carbohydrates, protein, minerals and vitamins. For this, include plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, dairy and some forms of lean protein like chicken, tofu, eggs etc. in your diet.

What fruits can I eat while breastfeeding?

Fruits are a great source of natural vitamins, minerals and fiber. So ensure that you include plenty of fruits like citrus fruits, melons, mangoes, apples, bananas and more in your postpartum diet.

What foods to avoid during breastfeeding?

Any food that negatively impacts you or your baby’s health, should be avoided during breastfeeding. This includes alcohol, caffeine, oily foods, spicy foods and allergic substances.

Is an apple good for a breastfeeding mother?

Apples are considered good for a breastfeeding mother along with other fruits like cantaloupes, oranges, blueberries, strawberries, bananas and more.

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