If you are in the midst of your pregnancy or if you are starting out 2011 with a bun in the oven, chances are you have adopted a new lifestyle. Not only do you have to think of yourself, but you must consider every choice you make and the effects on your baby. Taking care of yourself during pregnancy requires a lifestyle change, not just a New Year’s Resolution. Without further adieu, here are some easy ways to be good to you, your baby, and the environment.
If you can’t grow your own food, choose organic, free-range where applicable, minimally processed, and local if at all possible. Organic foods are readily available in Seattle so it’s a matter of weighing out the pros (nutritional integrity, reducing the infamous carbon footprint, supporting local farmers) and the cons (expensive, seasonal selection). There really is a difference in the quality of organic food vs. non-organic. Taste will be the most evident for some people whereas knowing there’s no pesticide residue will give others the peace of mind.
Say no to plastic. Plastic is man-made and it's toxic to the environment. The health concern with plastic is bisphenol-A or BPA, an ingredient that makes plastic hard and durable. Since the mid-1930s, BPA has been known to interfere with human endocrine, reproductive, and neurological systems as well as links with some cancers. Those most susceptible are developing fetus, babies, children, and adults in that order. We are fortunate to live in a city where we can find BPA-free products. There are many sites to read about BPA. Here are a couple: Plastic (Not) Fantastic and BPA.
Lastly, walk or do some form of daily exercise. Pregnancy at any stage poses emotional and physical challenges. Walking is by far the easiest. A great pair of walking shoes and out the door you go. The rain can pose a barrier, but if you accept it as part of living in the Northwest, then bundle up and get moving. You can even walk to the store if it’s not too far to do the return with a bag of groceries. Walking to the bus stop to take our ubiquitous Metro Bus System will get you to places in a mindful, conscious manner and you’ll get your exercise in. Another option is yoga. No shoes required. Prenatal and Postnatal Yoga classes are not easy to find as you would think, but 8 Limbs Yoga offers a wide selection at any of their 4 locations. Exercise will get your heart in shape and studies have shown that your growing baby's heart will benefit from it too. A lower heart rate means your heart is efficient and doesn't need to work so hard!
These are a few attainable lifestyle modifications that you can continue well after your pregnancy. For now, have a happy and healthy pregnancy in 2011!
Susan B. Chace, ACSM Health Fitness Specialist, STOTT PILATES ® Certified Instructor, and founder of Hoopdelite. You can contact her at www.ZenBirthCoach.com.
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