Simple Solutions to Complex Pregnancy Problems
January 24, 2009
Most women remain healthy throughout pregnancy, but the enormous changes taking place in the body are capable of causing numerous problems and discomforts. Natural approaches, in addition to your regular prenatal care, are especially useful at this time, when only essential medications advised by your doctor should be taken.
The nine months of pregnancy have profound effects on a woman’s body that can sometimes cause problems. The enlarging uterus may put pressure on other internal organs, possible leading to such disorders as heartburn, constipation, hemorrhoids, varicose veins and stress incontinence. The growing weight of the baby, placenta, amniotic fluid, increased blood volume and extra fat stores can mean fatigue and back pain. The baby’s requirement for iron, calcium and other minerals can result in maternal anemia and an increased risk for dental problems.
In addition, the changing metabolic, hormonal and immunological states of a pregnant woman’s body make diabetes, candid infection, fainting, itching, nausea and vomiting, gum problems and leg cramps more likely.
A serious condition called pre-eclampsia may cause elevated blood pressure, migraines, fluid retention (which results in puffiness of the hands, face and ankles), and protein leakage into the urine. If untreated, it can affect the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the baby and may cause miscarriage.
Many minor problems of pregnancy can be averted or minimized by ensuring that you and your partner are in optimum health before you conceive. Once you know you are pregnant, continue to eat a healthy diet, with plenty of foods rich in folic acid, calcium, iron, essential fatty acids and vitamins B1, B2, C and D. The average woman needs about 1000 extra kilojoules per day – roughly equivalent to about a tomato sandwich. Well-balanced meals and snacks will increase the chances of your baby having normal birth weight and, research suggests, will reduce the likelihood of the child suffering from diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and arterial disease as an adult.
Eat at least five servings daily of fruits and vegetables. Avoid or limit the consumption of liver, liver products and foods rich in vitamin A. Too much vitamin A may cause birth defects. Don’t eat any food you are sensitive to. Also, avoid having a large amount of any protein food at one time, as this might increase a baby’s risk of developing an allergy to that food. Avoid or limit your consumption of alcohol and caffeine containing drinks.
Comments
Got something to say? Join the conversation and leave a comment below.