Welcome to the first trimester of pregnancy!
This is an excitingand maybe a bit scarytime.
Before you even see a positive test, your body is already changing.
Folic acid is one of the most important nutrients to have on your radar well before conception.
“Folic acid is an important vitamin that helps prevent neural tube defects.
The first trimester is made up of the first 13 weeks of pregnancy.
Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is also on the rise.
Progesterone slows down muscle movement in the body, which can lead to constipation for some people.
There is a lot going on during these first 13 weeks.
It’s no wonder you’re exhaustedyour amazing body is doing some very impressive work!
Folic acid:Found in fortified foods and dietary supplements.
Iron:Found in meat, poultry, seafood, beans and dark leafy greens.
Choline:Found in eggs, meat, poultry, seafood and soy foods.
Vitamin B12:Found in meat, poultry, eggs, seafood, as well as fortified grain foods.
Omega-3 fatty acids:Found in fatty fish, chia seeds, flaxseeds and fortified foods.
Pregnant or not, food is your fueland when you are pregnant, thatfuel is extremely important.
“Sources of these nutrients include eggs, salmon and walnuts.”
But “morning” sickness is really a misnomerit doesn’t necessarily just happen in the morning.
you’re able to feel nauseous at any time of day, and anything can trigger it.
Food aversions are also common and can be related to nausea.
Many people can’t stand the thought of a fruit or vegetable and just wantcomfort foodduring the first trimester.
“Try incorporating some health into the foods you are craving,” advises Anderson.
Your diet doesn’t have to be perfect during pregnancy.
When you are feeling good, seize the opportunity to eat your fruits and vegetables.
When you aren’t feeling so great, reach for what you feel you might tolerate at that time.
And just do the best you might.
But check with your prenatal practitioner before adding any supplements.
In fact, exercise is beneficial for both mama and baby.
If you’re new to exercise, start slow and gradually work up the time and intensity.
However, avoid activities that risk bumping your abdomen or falling, such as horseback riding and contact sports.
In addition, don’t do activities involving pressure changes, such as scuba diving.
Rest is equally important.
How well you take care of yourself during pregnancyincluding during the first trimestercan help your pregnancy go more smoothly.
You’re doing great!
