With summer weather here for a few months, I thought I’d share a few tips to survive the heat while still trying to enjoy your pregnancy and staying active.
1- Hydrate -
Don’t forget to drink lots of fluids!! During pregnancy, your blood volume increases by as much as 50% and your body needs adequate amounts of fluids to function properly. With the summer heat and humidity rising, chances of dehydration are higher. Dehydration affects digestion, cognition, skin health, body temperature regulation and performance. Signs of dehydration are headaches, tiredness, difficulty concentrating and disruption in bodily functions. To prevent dehydration, always bring a water bottle with you wherever you go and aim to drink at least 2 liters per day. If water has become very boring, especially during the summer when those refreshing drinks are out of the question, try to change it up by adding some fruits, mint leaves, cucumber, fancy ice cubes, etc. Use your imagination and get creative, it’ll be tasty as well as refreshing! Tip - Store a refillable bottle in your car as a backup for when you forget to bring one with you. It has often saved me from going long periods without hydrating. 2- Wear comfortable clothing -
Literally, wear whatever you feel comfortable in, that allows air to flow, and isn’t too constricting. Some days you might feel like dressing up, and other days you might feel like wearing nothing but a sports bra and a pair of spandex (this may or may not have been me last summer!) I personally lived in maxi dresses and long baggy dresses at the end of my second pregnancy! If you are still staying active and bringing your workouts outdoors or in a warm environment, remember that you’ll be sweating a little more and certain types of materials tend to stick and rub so choose accordingly. Either way, remember that just because you’re pregnant does not mean you have to compromise style for comfort. There are some great options in stores and online, and for a cost effective option, a lot of clothes can be transformed into maternity wear… Pinterest! 3- Feet elevated -
Heat = swelling... for everyone, not just pregnant women! But if you’re on your feet all day or out walking in the heat, you may observe a little or a lot of swelling in your hands, ankles, legs, and feet. Swelling isn’t usually a cause for concern during pregnancy and is considered quite “normal” due to the increase in blood volume and excess bodily fluids; however, I do advise all women to follow-up with their healthcare providers in regards to swelling. Tip - When you do notice swelling, if possible, try to elevate your feet to get the blood flowing better to the rest of the body. Another great option is to fill a small tub of cold water and rest your feet in it a few minutes. I suggest trying these remedies while sipping on a cold mocktail...because pregnancy can’t stop you from enjoying some R&R while enjoying a delicious drink! (Try this delicious alcohol-free drink!) Strawberry Watermelon Smoothie
4 cups of seedless watermelon, diced
4 cups of frozen strawberries
2 Tbsp of lime juice
6 mint leaves
2 tbsp of maple syrup or honey (optional)
Blend until smooth. Poor in a cute glass. ENJOY! 4- Sunscreen -
Apply and reapply! Remember the days you spent tanning outside? Well we don’t recommended you do that during pregnancy, or ever, because high UV rays are not your friend! Multiple physiological adaptations during pregnancy make for sensitive skin during pregnancy and postpartum. Choosing a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reducing sun exposure can help prevent sun damage. Tip - Find a facial moisturizer that has an SPF included so that you’ll always have a little bit of protection on your face. Also, instead of carrying a big bottle of sunscreen with you, find yourself some small containers (reuse old hotel shampoo bottles) and fill them up. Once you do, stash them in your car, purse, beach bag or even diaper bag so that you always have some on hand. And remember to reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming or excessive sweating to remain protected! Hope these tips help you stay healthy while enjoying the beautiful weather this summer! Happy gestation!
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