We’ve been discussing all types of ways to engage in self-care.
No time is more important than when you’re pregnant.
Prego Factoid: During your pregnancy, your body produces
approximately 50% more blood and body fluids to meet the needs of the developing baby. Swelling is a normal part of pregnancy that is caused by this additional blood and fluids. Normal swelling, which is also called edema, is experienced in the hands, face, legs, ankles, and feet.
Swelling can happen at any point during your pregnancy but is
usually noticeable around your fifth month; it can increase while you are in
the third trimester. Here’s why it happens: Summertime heat, standing for longer periods of time, “long” days of activity, diets low in potassium, higher
levels of caffeine consumption, and too much sodium.
Now for the self-care part! Eating foods that are high in potassium such as bananas and avoiding caffeine can reduce your swelling. Here are helpful hints:
- Avoid standing for long periods
- Minimize outdoor time when it is hot
- Rest with your feet elevated
- Wear comfortable shoes, avoiding high heels if possible
- Wear supportive tights or stockings
- Avoid clothes that are tight around your wrists or ankles
- Have your legs massaged
- Remove your rings before your fingers swell up
- Drink water which helps flush the body and reduce water
retention - Minimize sodium (salt) intake, avoid adding additional salt to
meals
If you follow a regimen of self-care, you’ll always feel better! Today’s guest author is Mollee of pregnancy.org.
drdianesanford.com 