"Thirsty? Then your body is on its way to becoming dehydrated. For the average adult, water accounts for 60 percent of body weight. That water plays a critical role in nearly every bodily process. And being a quart or two low can affect how you feel. Water is key in body temperature regulation." (URMC)
It's all too easy to let the day go by without drinking enough water until your thirsty. As a pregnant mom, or if you're breast feeding staying hydrated is so important! You are your baby's source of hydration.
During pregnancy dehydration can worsen morning sickness, cause preterm contractions, swelling and more. Hydration contributes to fetal blood circulation,cell development and amniotic fluid. In "Raising Baby Green," Alan Greene, M.D., asks pregnant women to remember that their placenta is “providing approximately one cup of water each hour” just to replenish amniotic fluid in the womb.
Drinking water can be a tough habit to start, especially if you're accustomed to drinking sugary juice, sodas or coffee throughout your day. Cutting back on these beverages is the first step.
You can make staying hydrated more enjoyable by dressing up your water. Iced herbal teas are a yummy alternative, my favorite is peppermint!
Add fresh herbs and fruit to your water for a change of pace, here's a terrific recipe for Homemade Vitamin Water.
Doulas and midwives often make, or suggest making "laborade" a homemade hydrating Gatorade type drink. All natural and delicious, you can also use this during pregnancy and after birth while nursing to stay hydrated.
Simply stir together the following ingredients in a quart jar:
Water! ;)
1/3 cup of honey
1/3 cup of lemon juice
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp baking soda
If you're pregnant during the hottest summer months, it's worth it to find a maternity swimsuit or a suit that works for you. Swimming is great for your hardworking pregnant body, and a terrific way to cool down. It seems obvious, but remember to keep drinking while swimming, cooling down can make us forget we're thirsty!
Have you found some delicious and fun ways to stay hydrated and cool during the summer?
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