If you’re pregnant right now, the season has been kind with mild temperatures and less white stuff on the ground. Still, it’s not likely to last. Rest assured, winter is coming!
Cold and flu season is also coming, as are shorter days, more time spent indoors, and an abundance of opportunities to overeat during the holidays. It’s a tough time to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine, and it’s hard to get outside as much when the sun sets at 5 pm. Changing temperatures and slippery roads add additional safety concerns as well.
Here are seven ideas to maintain a healthy pregnancy during the winter months:
1. Get a flu vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a flu shot for anyone who is pregnant during flu season. Be sure to request the flu shot, which is safer for both mom and baby than the nasal spray vaccine.
2. Wear sensible shoes. Trade in your heels for safer, flat-soled winter boots. Pick a pair that have some tread and grip for extra safety when you’re walking around outside.
3. Seek out indoor fitness classes. Check out a prenatal yoga or prenatal barre class to maintain a fitness routine when you can’t get outside. Bring a friend!
4. Use a slow-cooker. Easily prepare large batches of healthy comfort-food. Experiment with recipes for soups, stews, and chili that you can freeze for later use.
5. Drink plenty of fluids. Winter air is cold and dry, and indoor heating sucks out any remaining humidity. Combat dehydration by drinking extra water with lemon. Also, use moisturizer to help hydrate your skin, including your belly!
6. Wash your hands frequently. The best prevention is good ol’ fashioned soap and water. Also, try to avoid getting too close to people who are coughing or sneezing. They will see your belly and understand the distance!
7. Treat your toes right. While you may think of summer as the season of pedicures, it’s a great idea in the winter as well. Not only will you get some much-needed pampering, the foot and leg massage will help your circulation.
Learn more! Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter for daily pregnancy, birth, and health updates.