Three ways to summer proof your baby bump
Summer is here! Now you are pregnant, you may be wondering what you can do to keep yourself healthy and cool as the mercury soars.
There is no reason not to enjoy your summer because you are expecting a baby. You just need to take a few extra precautions to make sure you and your bub are safe and happy.
Three tips to summer proof your baby bump
1- Keep your fluids up
The first and most important tip for pregnant mums in summer is to stay hydrated. Being excessively dehydrated can cause the same chemical reaction that starts uterine contractions, which can lead to pre-term labour.
Avoid this situation by drinking water regularly throughout the day. If you find plain water tastes funny (hooray for pregnancy) add a twist of lemon or cucumber. You can also stay hydrated with plain soda water or an iced tea blend which is suitable for pregnant women.
Even though it’s hot, limit your intake of soft drinks and fruit juices. These are packed with unnecessary sugar or caffeine which can tip you over the safe daily limit without you realising.
2- Hit the water
Swimming is an excellent way to escape the heat and summer proof your baby bump for more reasons than one. Firstly, it will cool you off. Doing a few laps in the pool is also an impact free way to get your daily exercise without putting pressure on your joints and ligaments.
Your local swim centre may provide aquatic maternity classes, which are a fun way to meet other expectant mums.
3- Chill out
The heat of summer can lead to bloating and swelling. When you are relaxing at the end of the night, try to keep your feet elevated to reduce the pressure on your lower legs.
For those long summer nights, a fan is a worthy investment to save you from tossing and turning all night. Do some research into the quietest models so they won’t keep you awake.
Finally, now you’re pregnant, this is not the summer for long hikes or activities which will keep you in the sun all day. Grab some books or magazines and set yourself up in the shade for some R&R.
And why not try ActiviTea? This energising blend is packed with green bosch, lemon balm, apple pieces and vanilla. It’s delicious when served cool and is formulated to boost immune function, restore wellness to the body and replenish the essential vitamins and minerals you may lose on a hot day.
