Fresh Focus #10: Exercise and Pregnancy

While pregnancy may seem like the perfect time to eat extra portions of dessert and veg out on the couch, it is actually one of the most important times to prioritize your health! There are many contributors to your health, but one very important one is physical activity and exercise. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that pregnant women participate in 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week.  Regular physical activity during your pregnancy is incredibly important to support a healthy pregnancy and birthing experience. There are many amazing benefits of physical activity during this transformative time of your life! Some of these benefits include: ·         Reduction in back pain·         Improving constipation·         Decreased risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia·         Decreased chance of needing a c-section, pain relief, or Pitocin·         Promoting healthy weight gain·         Improvement in overall general fitness·         Strengthening your heart and blood vessels·         Helping you lose the baby weight more quickly after baby is bornFurthermore, benefits for the baby may include:·         Increased blood volumes·         Leaner builds·         Better tolerance to the stress of pregnancy and delivery·         Improved brain developmentPregnancy is such an exciting time, but it can also be intimidating with all of the changes going on in your body. While simply being active is important, when participating in a pregnancy exercise program, it is equally important to discuss with qualified professionals to determine the best level of activity and to make sure you are able to complete the exercises with proper form.  The goal is for you to feel empowered to take charge of your (and your baby’s!) health and to help you feel the best you can so you are able to enjoy this time.  As always, if you have any questions, contact your local VA dietitian and we will be happy to help you!  Host Bio: Tori Stewart, MS, RD, LDN, CPT is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Personal Trainer, and Group Fitness Instructor. She serves veterans through facilitating a Home Based Cardiac Rehab program. Tori received a Dual-Master’s Degree in Food & Nutrition and Exercise Science from SIU Carbondale and has been at the VA for over two years. She is passionate about helping patients learn how to take control of their health and live a healthy and fulfilling life.