Staying Healthy During Pregnancy

I'm well into my pregnancy now (almost half way!) and already can't believe how slow this is going.

Yes. SLOW.

I think it's because I have three rowdy boys who still think I am a jungle gym and wrestle partner, who I homeschool every day, and who really never let me rest until their heads hit the pillow each night.  You would think these things would make time go fast, right? Wrong.

Being busy this time is NOT keeping things moving quickly, but it is helping me be even more discerning and more focused on taking care of myself. Having lost a baby at 18 weeks before this pregnancy means that I am not taking any chances, and being really really good to my body. 

Here's how I'm doing my part to stay healthy during pregnancy:

1. H2O - yes you really can't drink enough water while pregnant. At some point your blood volume actually doubles, and what's needed for that? Water! If you are thirsty, you're already dehydrated. My goal is to drink my body weight in ounces each day.

2.  Sleep - another thing that sounds impossible, but yet is so very necessary. In the first trimester my body forced me to sleep.  I'd literally nod off wherever I was (except in the car! maybe.).  Now in the second trimester I've noticed I am still just exhausted but I can keep myself awake. This is not good, because I have no discipline when it comes to going to bed. It's really helped for me to make a set bedtime and STICK TO IT.

3.  Protein - protein and specifically red meat are hugely important during pregnancy. Unfortunately I developed a huge aversion to red meat a couple months ago, so I've had to work extra hard on finding replacements. Amino acid supplements and making sure I get in plenty of whole, organic dairy has been the best way to replace what red meat offers.

4.  Walking - it's hard to keep up with exercise when you're already a busy mom, but add in the growing belly and it becomes quite the task. I've found that if I can just get out and walk, even if it's 20 min a day, I feel better and my body thanks me. 

5.  Red Raspberry Leaf - a hugely beneficial nutrient to the female reproductive system, red raspberry leaf has tons of vital B6 that will keep baby safe and mama feeling good. You can find it in tea or supplement form.