How To Have A Healthy Baby

When bringing a baby into the world, one hopes for he/she to have good health. This is a great start in developing a healthy, happy and functioning adult for the future that is to come. This may also help the parent and/or caretaker experience a more pleasurable while raising a child. Having a healthy pregnancy is a great way to start parenting your baby. Here are a variety of ways to maintain good prenatal health in order to have a healthy baby.

Establish a healthy pregnancy plan. You can do this alone and/or with your doctor to help you become aware of the changes and/or improvements you need to make

Talk to your doctor and/or nutritionist. Find out how much weight you need to gain and/or lose and what foods to eat in order to meet your goal. You should also ask about the foods you need to avoid.

Plan your meals in advance. This is a great way to make sure you eat everything you need for good prenatal health. This will also help you save time and deal less with having to make decisions.

Eat breakfast, lunch and dinner everyday. This helps you maintain a good mood and full of energy.

Eat healthy everyday. Maintain a well- balanced diet by eating from all the food groups. Make sure you are proving your baby with the nutrition required for good health. Avoid overeating or not eating enough.

Make sure you are getting enough nutrients and vitamins. This includes protein, iron fiber, calcium, vitamin B 12, vitamin D and all other nutrients needed for a healthy baby.

Drink plenty of water. This will help keep you from dehydrating.

Avoid Alcohol, smoking and any kind of drugs. These are all bad for you and your baby's health especially during pregnancy as it has a direct impact on the baby.

Avoid taking over the counter drugs. Always talk to your doctor first before taking any medication during pregnancy. You can also talk to your doctor about medications you need to avoid.

Avoid caffeine. This will help you avoid having problems with your blood pressure.

Avoid eating uncooked food. These foods may contain harmful bacteria for your baby. This is something you can further discuss with your doctor and/or nutritionist.

Exercise during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor first to ensure this is an option for you. This can help reduce discomfort, regulate weight, increase energy, improve mood, sleep, and make it possible to have an easier, shorter labor.

Avoid dangerous exercise and/or physical activities. Talk to your doctor about the exercises you can do to help you prevent activities that can hurt you and your baby.

Avoid using chemicals while you are pregnant. This will help protect you and your baby's health.

Avoid sleeping all day long. Maintaining active will help you have energy throughout the day.

Avoid stress and depression. If you are feeling too down or anxious, contact a health professional and they can help you deal with your feelings in a healthy way that will not harm your baby.

Tamara Monell MS, LMHC, NCC
09-06-08

Expert advice from a licensed mental health professional.