Importance of staying hydrated during pregnancy - Various ways to stay hydrated!!
Just like how pregnancy is a very important stage in the lives of a woman, staying hydrated during pregnancy is also very important. It is true that water plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and wellbeing of both mother and the baby. A woman could have a healthy pregnancy by staying hydrated as it would increase her blood volume plus help in digestion and absorption of nutrients etc.
Information is that a pregnant woman must consume 8 to 10 cups of water in a day. Depending on several factors like activity levels, climate, overall health etc, intake of water might vary from one pregnant person to another.
Importance of hydration during pregnancy:
Supports increased blood volume:
It is noteworthy that during pregnancy the blood volume of a woman would increase by 50percent. To produce this additional blood, water is highly essential. This additional blood supplies oxygen and nutrients to the baby.
Helps in digestion and nutrient absorption:
A pregnant woman could have a healthy digestion if she drinks water in adequate amounts. There are chances of avoiding issues like constipation and haemorrhoids etc.
Prevents dehydration:
Serious issues like urinary tract infections, premature labor and low amniotic fluid levels etc would be possible due to dehydration caused by lack of enough water.
Regulates body temperature:
Hormonal changes could make the pregnant mother feel warmer than usual. By staying hydrated by drinking water would regulate body temperature and would prevent overheating etc.
Reduces swelling:
Pregnant women would have some swelling and that is common. Hydrating would lower excessive swelling that would occur in hands, feet etc.
Various ways or tips to stay hydrated during pregnancy:
By carrying water bottle:
By keeping reusable water bottles all the time, a pregnant woman would drink water throughout the day.
By adding flavour to water:
By setting reminders:
During pregnancy, a woman can be made to drink water by reminders through alarms or apps etc.
By eating hydrating foods:
During pregnancy, women must be made to eat foods that have high water content. Various examples of such fruits are watermelons, strawberries etc. Various examples of such vegetables are cucumbers, lettuce etc.
By keeping track of liquid intake:
It is necessary to keep a track of water intake. This would help in meeting the hydration goals.
By staying hydrated during exercising:
While doing exercises during the pregnancy, woman must stay hydrated by consuming extra water to compensate for the loss of fluids through sweating.
Various other fluids pregnant woman can drink are
A fantastic alternative to water would be the intake of non-caffeinated herbal teas. The herbal teas could be soothing and hydrating. Likewise, during pregnancy, a woman can consume low fat milk and 100percent fruit juices also. Pregnant women can get additional fluids by including broths and soups etc.
