What to do about fatigue during pregnancy is a common concern for many expectant mothers. The exhaustion that comes with growing a human being can be overwhelming, and it can feel like there is no escape. Fortunately, there are many things you can do to combat this fatigue and get back to feeling like yourself again. From getting enough rest to adjusting your diet, this article will provide tips and tricks for how to fight fatigue during pregnancy.
Get Plenty of Rest to Fight Fatigue During Pregnancy
Fatigue is a common symptom during pregnancy, and it can be difficult to get through the day without feeling exhausted. The good news is that there are many ways to combat fatigue and stay energized during your pregnancy. The first step is to get plenty of rest.
Pregnancy can be taxing on your body, and it’s important to prioritize sleep. Aim to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night, and don’t be afraid to take naps during the day if you need them.
It can be tough to find the time for rest, especially if you’re busy with work or other responsibilities, but making sleep, a priority will help you feel better overall.
Having a Bedtime Routine Can Help With Fatigue
If you’re having trouble sleeping at night, try creating a relaxing bedtime routine. Take a warm bath, read a book, or listen to calming music to help you unwind.
Avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime, as the blue light from electronic devices can disrupt your body’s natural sleep cycle.
It’s also important to create a comfortable sleeping environment. Invest in a good mattress and pillows, and make sure your bedroom is dark, cool, and quiet.
If you’re struggling with discomfort or pain during sleep, consider using pregnancy pillows or other aids to support your body.
Remember, your body is working hard to grow and nourish your baby, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you’re feeling tired.
By getting plenty of rest and taking care of yourself, you can fight fatigue and enjoy a healthy, energized pregnancy.
Eat a Healthy Diet to Combat Fatigue
One of the best ways to combat fatigue during pregnancy is to ensure that you are eating a healthy and balanced diet.
It’s essential to consume foods that are rich in vitamins and nutrients that will keep your energy levels up throughout the day.
To start, you’ll want to focus on incorporating plenty of fruits and vegetables into your diet. These are great sources of natural sugars and fiber, which will help keep your blood sugar levels stable and reduce the likelihood of energy crashes.
Use Healthy Food Against Fatigue
Another essential aspect of eating a healthy diet is making sure that you are consuming enough calories each day.
Pregnancy is a time when your body requires extra energy to support the growth and development of your baby.
It’s recommended that most pregnant women aim to consume an extra 300-500 calories per day to ensure that their bodies are adequately fueled.
Finally, it’s essential to stay hydrated throughout your pregnancy. Dehydration can lead to feelings of fatigue and sluggishness, so be sure to drink plenty of water and other fluids throughout the day.
In addition to water, consider drinking natural fruit juices or herbal teas to provide your body with additional hydration and nutrients.
By eating a healthy and balanced diet, you’ll be giving your body the energy and nutrients it needs to stay energized and focused throughout your pregnancy.
If you’re unsure about what to eat or have specific dietary restrictions, talk to your doctor or a registered dietician for personalized recommendations.
Exercise Regularly
While it may seem counterintuitive to exercise when you’re already feeling fatigued, regular physical activity can actually help combat fatigue during pregnancy.
Exercise increases blood flow and oxygen to your body, which can give you more energy throughout the day.
Additionally, exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood boosters that can help alleviate pregnancy-related stress and anxiety.
However, it’s important to note that not all exercises are safe during pregnancy. Before starting any exercise program, talk to your healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe for you and your growing baby.
Generally, low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, yoga, and Pilates are safe for most pregnant women.
Start slow and gradually increase your activity level as you feel comfortable.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, such as brisk walking or prenatal yoga. Listen to your body and take breaks as needed.
Remember, the goal is to boost your energy, not exhaust yourself further.
Some other tips for exercising during pregnancy include:
- Wear comfortable, supportive clothing and shoes.
- Stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise.
- Avoid activities that require lying on your back or jumping.
- Avoid high-impact sports or activities with a risk of falling or injury.
With a little effort, exercise can be a valuable tool in your fight against fatigue during pregnancy.
Take Short Naps
One of the best ways to combat fatigue during pregnancy is by taking short naps throughout the day.
The recommended nap length is between 20-30 minutes as this is enough time to provide a quick energy boost without disrupting your nighttime sleep.
If you are struggling to find time for naps during the day, try scheduling them into your routine. Consider setting aside some time during your lunch break, or after you’ve completed a task, to take a quick power nap.
When napping, try to make sure that you are comfortable, in a quiet and dark space, and set an alarm to wake you up after 20-30 minutes.
Be mindful that long naps during the day can interfere with your nighttime sleep, so make sure that you don’t nap too long and try to stick to a regular sleep schedule.
Remember, getting enough sleep and rest during pregnancy is vital to maintaining your energy levels and supporting your overall health.
If you are experiencing severe fatigue that isn’t improving with these measures, speak to your healthcare provider to ensure there aren’t any underlying medical conditions causing the issue.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
Staying hydrated is important during pregnancy, especially when dealing with fatigue. Drinking plenty of fluids, particularly water, can help keep your body energized and alert throughout the day.
Experts recommend drinking at least 8 to 10 glasses of water daily. You can also drink fresh fruit juice, coconut water, or herbal teas to add variety to your fluid intake.
It is also important to note that drinking fluids during pregnancy can help alleviate some common discomforts, such as constipation and swelling.
Keeping a water bottle handy at all times, or setting reminders to drink water, can help you stay hydrated and fight fatigue during pregnancy.
However, be mindful of your fluid intake, as too much can lead to frequent urination and discomfort. If you have concerns about your fluid intake or notice any unusual symptoms, speak to your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
Avoid Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant that is commonly found in coffee, tea, soda, and chocolate. While it may help you feel more alert, it can also disrupt your sleep and increase feelings of anxiety.
It can also lead to dehydration, which can worsen fatigue. For these reasons, it is recommended that pregnant women limit their caffeine intake to 200 milligrams per day, or avoid it altogether.
This equates to about one 12-ounce cup of coffee. If you do consume caffeine, try to have it earlier in the day to avoid disrupting your sleep at night.
Instead, opt for decaf coffee or tea, or other non-caffeinated beverages like water or herbal tea. You may find that reducing your caffeine intake helps you feel more rested and energized throughout the day.
