Archive for the ‘Pregnancy’ Category

How to get rid of stretch marks?

Monday, June 10th, 2013

Pregnancy is something, which not only brings good times but also brings some bad phases. One of such things is the stretch marks; every woman wants to have a smooth skin but after delivering the baby, these stretch marks appear. These marks occur when the skin stretches as the baby starts to grow in the womb. Here are some measures, which can help in getting rid from these marks:
 

  • Start massaging the body with aroma oil, there are many varieties of these oils available in the market. These oils help in reducing the chances of getting the marks and also help in relaxing the senses.
  • Olive oil is one of the most popular oils in the market and is liked for its magical properties. It can help in reducing the marks; one should massage the affected areas daily after taking bath. With time, the effective results can be seen.
  • Even rubbing Vaseline on the stomach and thigh areas, twice a day can help a lot in preventing the skin from stretch marks.
  • Aloe vera can help a lot in diminishing the stretch marks; it is available in the market in the form of gel. One can also use the gel directly from the plant; it is a speedy process for healing the marks.
  • Other than creams and oils, eggs can also help in making the skin look flawless. Eggs are a great source of protein, which helps the skin in reducing the stretch marks.
  • Shea butter is a much known product in the beauty segment. It is a very rich source of vitamin A and E, by using it twice a day for massage; one can get healthy skin, without any stretch marks.
  • All these remedies can help in getting rid of the stretch marks which occur during the pregnancy. No doubt, it’s important to use them from the time of pregnancy so that lesser marks appear. These remedies are natural and non- allergic, thus one can use them according to the suitability.

    Foods rich in folic acid and good during pregnancy

    Friday, May 10th, 2013

    During pregnancy, it’s very important to have a good diet which includes all the nutrients in good quantity. A good diet not just ensures proper growth of the baby but also gives strength to the mother. Here are some of the foods, which are rich in folic acid and are a must to have during pregnancy:

    • Lentils are one of the best folate-containing foods that can be included in the diet during pregnancy. They are easily available in every store and contain many other nutrients like iron, fiber, etc. Even the cooking process takes very less time and they can be prepared in various different ways, according to the taste.

    • Asparagus should also be included in the daily diet for fulfilling the requirements of folic acid in the body. Different recipes can be used for making delicious dishes; its 1-cup serving contains 79 mcg of folate which is good during pregnancy.

    • Leafy green vegetables contain folic acid in a very good amount; even the concentrations of vitamins are very high. In leafy vegetables, broccoli tops the list after spinach, as its 1-cup serving contains 104 mcg. Even mustard greens, kale, collard are also liked for their taste and nutrient values like calcium, vitamin C and iron.

    • Sunflower seeds contain 82 mcg of folic acid; one can take handful of them in the daily diet. They are best for munching during the snack time; they can even be taken in other forms like baked breads with them as toppings or the salads or soup which have them for crunchiness. They are also a good source of calcium and iron.

    • Tomato juice is a must to have during pregnancy; it helps in fulfilling the folic acid requirements in the body. It is best to take iron pills with a glass of juice as it helps the body in absorbing the iron. It’s also very rich in Vitamin C, sodium as well as potassium.

    Tips to lose the weight after pregnancy

    Monday, January 28th, 2013
    Now as you are in a new role, you need to be fit both mentally and physically. During pregnancy, you must have gained 25-35 pounds more than your normal weight. So, now it’s time to shed off the baby weight naturally. It is necessary to have patience; you can’t get into shape within a month. It would take time; you can follow some basic tips which can reduce the baby weight without affecting the body adversely.

    Breastfeeding:

    It is one of the best ways to shed the weight. Many studies have proven this fact; calories are burn during the feeding process. It is said, women who breastfeed their baby returns back to normal weight faster than those who don’t. So you can try this natural way to lose the weight as well as for keeping the baby healthy.

    Drink water:

    Drink loads of water, try to keep yourself hydrated. This helps in speeding up the metabolism of the body. You can also drink milk, fresh juices, coconut water, etc. They not just help in shedding the weight but also act as a cleanser for the body and keep you fit.

    Avoid dieting:

    Avoid dieting if you want to get back in shape. Yes, this might sound very strange but eating healthy food at right time can help in losing weight. Follow the eating habits, which you followed during the nine months. Avoid fried, spicy or fatty foods; enjoy eating food enriched with nutrients which are good for you as well as for your baby.

    Sleep:

    When the new born arrives, the whole sleeping cycle changes. So it is best to follow the sleeping routine of the baby. Stress can releases hormones which can increase weight. So, you should start taking small naps with the baby. Ask your friends or relatives to babysit; it can help you in getting good rest.

    Exercise:

    With baby you might not get free time. For the initial stage, take your baby in a stroller and start with the walks. With passing time, you can start doing aerobic or strength training exercises also. All this will help in burning those extra calories very easily. You will feel distressed, much energetic and fit.

    Countdown begins with the 9th month!

    Saturday, January 12th, 2013

    The last month of pregnancy is like a mixed bag of emotions, making the final preparations as your baby may arrive anytime near the due date. The baby is almost 3.3 kg and measures between 18-22 inches at birth. The baby’s organs are formed by now; with little room to move, you can still feel the kicks. Make sure to keep the track of the movements and the kicks. If you notice any deviation in the pattern, then call the doctor.

    During this last stage, problems like swelling in hands and legs, hemorrhoids, sleeping and breathing problems, restlessness, leaky breasts, etc. are very common. Take good rest and try to remain busy, read good books, talk on baby care with friends, watch your favorite movie, etc. Relax and enjoy the last few days of your pregnancy in the best way.

    Get ready for the special day!

    • Go for a head or foot massage, get a nice haircut, go for romantic dinners or just gather friends on a cup of coffee. This will make your body and mind feel free, and you’ll be ready to face everything properly.
    • Start writing blog or journal; express your thoughts and emotions freely and have fun.
    • Prepare your hospital bag; keep everything that you would need for yourself and the baby. Don’t forget to keep the camera; the first click of the baby is priceless!
    • Take regular walks with your partner, talk on baby names, décor and other things. Even daddy-to-be should come up with some ideas!
    • Talk to your doctor; ask them about all the queries you have in your mind. Communicate your feelings so that doctor can give advice accordingly.
    • Always keep the doctor’s number in hand, because you never know when the emergency occurs.

    8th month- Crucial for you and your baby!

    Friday, January 4th, 2013

    Changes in your baby:

    By the eighth month of pregnancy, the baby weighs around three pounds eleven ounces (1.7 kilograms) and measures 40- 43 cm long. Your baby is getting ready to be born; the red blood cell production is done by the baby’s bone marrow. You can feel frequent reactions to the sound and touch. By the end of this month, baby will assume the final position. Brain, lungs and bones are still developing; baby still drinks the amniotic fluid which helps in developing the digestive system.

    Changes in you:

    You will gain 3 to 4 more pounds during this month. Increase in weight will lead to uneasiness, frequency of urination, shortness of breath, heartburn, backaches and anxiety. By the last few weeks, you will grow a bit so shop for larger maternity clothes. Dark line under the belly will become more noticeable, you will feel at least 10-12 movements of your baby every day. Due to uterus pressure, you may also feel painful sensations in hypochondrium. You will feel increase in the Braxton Hicks contractions, even the navel will stretch out with the increase in your size.

    What you should do:

    Take proper rest, use pillows for supporting your back. Visit your doctor regularly; go for routine checkups and discussions. If you face trouble while sleeping, drink something warm or take warm shower for getting relaxed. Eat healthy, fiber-rich foods; include loads of fresh, green vegetables and fruits. Keep yourself hydrated, drink plenty of water and water based products. Involve yourself in shopping for the new member; keep your hospital bag ready with all the essentials. Avoid raw food, caffeinated drinks and vigorous exercise or physical activities. Go for regular walks, read good maternity books or listen soothing music for relaxing yourself.