- Hydrate. Hydrate. Hydrate. Drinking plenty of fluids is a great way keep cool in the summer. Remember to avoid drinks with excess sugar. Instead, try seltzer, iced tea or water with citrus added. Excess sugar and artificial sweeteners can centrifuge to unnecessary weight gain and reflux/heartburn. Don’t forget to add in electrolytes when necessary.
- Wear your sunscreen. When you are pregnant, because of the excess estrogen circulation through your system, your skin can be more sensitive to the sun than it normally is. Don’t forget sun protection. Remember mineral based sunscreens are best in pregnancy. There are two types of sunscreens typically seen in any given drug and beauty store: chemical and physical (aka mineral). Chemical sunscreens may contain some harsh chemicals like carbon-based compounds, such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, octisalate, and avobenzone. These compounds are effective because they change UV rays into heat, and then release that heat from the skin. The second type, physical blockers, (also known as mineral sunscreens) contain active mineral ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. These are more of a barrier sunscreen and are actually less toxic in pregnancy. These thick creams and lotions sit on the surface of the skin and deflect UVA rays away that may be damaging. Mineral is best in pregnancy. Some great recommendations can be found on the ewg.org website. You can see their list of recommendations for sunscreen in pregnancy and for kids!
- Swimming is totally safe! Yes swimming even in the ocean or pool is completely safe. While some physicians advise avoiding hot tubs and saunas, a pool, lake or ocean is a great way to get some much needed joint relief and stay cool. Swimming can also take weight off your sciatic nerve. While some water actives like scuba diving, water skiing and jet skiing are not recommended in pregnancy many water actives are like swimming, snorkeling and paddle boating.
- Stay cool and enjoy your summer!
- June 2022
- Blog
Having a Cool Pregnant Summer
