How to Fight Pregnancy Fatigue

Most pregnant mothers complain of fatigue during pregnancy. This type of fatigue is not simply being sleepy at the end of the day. The complete exhaustion that sometimes goes hand in hand with pregnancy is a message from your body to rest. Pregnant mothers need to listen to what their bodies are saying; get more sleep. Other factors play a role to cause fatigue during pregnancy. Among them is one main fact; your body is working for two people, not just one. The following are some tips to help you alleviate a little of the overwhelming tiredness that consumes you during pregnancy.

Instructions

1. Sleep when you’re tired. Put your feet up and take a nap. If you can’t sleep for an hour, then rest for ten minutes. Sleep is your body’s restorative time. Your body is working for two so you require more rest.

2. Pregnant mothers must eat properly. A well-balanced diet of lean proteins (well-cooked chicken, pork, fish, or beef), leafy green vegetables and fruits help combat fatigue. Have healthy snacks. Satisfying a craving is okay, but a steady diet of junk food will do nothing to increase your energy levels.

3. 

   What a pregnant mother drinks is just as important as what she eats. Drink water and lots of it! Dehydration is common for everyone but especially dangerous for a pregnant woman. Proper hydration helps prevent fatigue in addition to alleviating the common problem of constipation. Skip the caffeine. It’s an artificial stimulant and often aggravates swelling in the feet, hands and legs.

4. Watch your iron levels. Many mothers have an iron vitamin deficiency during pregnancy. You doctor should be testing for this regularly during your monthly visits. If he isn’t or if you feel extreme tiredness, discuss it with your physician. A simple iron tablet can make the difference between extreme fatigue or being able to function properly each day.

5. Daily exercises such as a brisk walk, swimming a few laps or a ride on a stationary bike may boost your energy. Exercise releases hormones called endorphins that make everyone feel so great after a workout. Exercise also increases blood circulation. But don’t exercise to the point of exhaustion. Skip the aerobics, rock-climbing, or contact sports. Remember to warm up and cool down carefully before and after exercising. A good workout just might be the ticket to helping you sleep more soundly.

6. Your sleeping position can actually improve what little sleep you’re able to get while pregnant. A bulging tummy, a frequently-full bladder, and general discomfort sometimes get in the way of a good night’s rest. Collect some extra pillows for your bed. Lay on your side with a pillow under your head. Tuck another between your knees and one behind your back. Place another one under your belly for extra support.

Tips & Warnings

• Any exercises should be performed with your doctor’s supervision.