Peak summer makes everyone feel dehydrated and tired. Expecting women feel more dehydrated due to hormonal changes in their bodies. A combination of summer heat along with hormonal changes in your body can result in a very uncomfortable pregnancy. Staying hydrated during pregnancy is a great way to beat the hot flushes and the peak summer heat. What’s worse? Dehydration during pregnancy can lead to health issues or complications. Therefore, identifying dehydration in pregnancy symptoms is crucial to ensure a smooth and worry-free pregnancy.
Firstly, dehydration during pregnancy can cause medical issues like low amniotic fluid, birth defects, and also pre-term labor. Further, dehydrated pregnant women may also experience symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and also muscle cramps. That is why recognizing the early signs of dehydration in pregnancy can go a long way in providing summer relief to pregnant women.
If your mouth or lips are dry or your urine color is a shade of dark yellow or if you experience rapid heartbeat or dizziness, you might be suffering from dehydration or low water intake during pregnancy. It is advisable to consult your gynecologist for the best summer tips for pregnant women to avoid any pregnancy complications.
Summer heat can suck up all the energy in expecting mothers. Staying hydrated and keeping active are essential for enjoying a healthier, happier pregnancy. So, how can you ensure you remain hydrated during your pregnancy?
Whether you are at home, going for your morning walk, or off to work, expecting mothers must always carry a bottle of water on the go. Carrying your bottle of water ensures you get your sip of hydration throughout the day from a clean and hygienic bottle. Also, filling your daily dose of boiled water from home ensures your water is contamination-free for you and your baby.
According to a research article published in the National Institute of Health, water consumption must be calculated based on calorie intake. Generally, people are advised to consume 1-1.5 ml of fluid for every calorie consumed. So, if the average intake is around 2000 calories per day then fluid intake should range between 2L or 3L per day. On the other hand, most pregnant women are advised to increase their calorie intake by around 300 calories more than the average calorie intake of people. Therefore, pregnant women must increase fluid intake accordingly.
Another tip to stay hydrated during pregnancy is to avoid sugary drinks and caffeine. At the same time, increase your intake of fluids like healthy diluted juices and water.
It is advisable to make healthy choices regarding fluid intake during your pregnancy. You can include fluids like coconut water and milk depending on your doctor’s advice. You can also add natural flavors like freshly squeezed lime or orange in your plain water to make it more interesting to fulfill the required water intake during pregnancy.
To remain hydrated during your pregnancy, increase your intake of water-rich foods. You can include foods like watermelons and cucumbers to increase the fluid intake for pregnant women. Additionally, boost your fluid intake by consuming more soups and vegetable stews.
Another summer tip for pregnant women is to drink water or healthy fluids on a schedule. If you are one to forget about keeping yourself hydrated during pregnancy, then it is advisable to schedule reminders on your smartphone to help you remember the importance of water intake during pregnancy.
Schedule a consultation with the top gynecologists and nutritionists at the best pregnancy hospital in Bengaluru for a detailed list of the best drinks for pregnancy hydration. Kinder Women’s Hospital and Fertility Center is a leading women and child care hospital in Bangalore. We offer world-class medical care for pregnant women and children.
Schedule your consultation today for expert summer tips for pregnant women.