There are many things you are supposed to do when you are pregnant and it can almost feel like a full-time job to accomplish it all. There is one task that ranks at the top of the to-do list: drink enough water. It’s widely known that dehydration can occur if you don’t drink enough water, but the toll it takes on pregnant women is especially worrisome.
Why water?
Water delivers essentials to your baby. Have you been taking prenatal vitamins and eating healthy foods every day? Ever wonder how all of this actually gets to your baby? It all starts with water. Water helps your body absorb essential nutrients into the cells and transports vitamins, minerals and hormones to the blood cells.
Just how much water?
You should aim to drink 12 or 13 glasses each day. Avoid drinking all of the water at once to get it over with; you’ll end up feeling uncomfortably full. Instead, try to space out your sips to keep them coming steadily throughout the day. Are you working out during your pregnancy? Be sure to drink water before during and after you work out. Not sure if you are getting enough water? If you take frequent trips to the bathroom and your urine is pale or colorless, your drinking is on track.
Are you all watered out?
Although water is the best drink around, there are plenty of other liquids that make the cut. Milk, flavored or sparkling water, fruit and vegetable juices and decaffeinated teas are all a good choice. Just be sure to watch for added sugar, sodium pasteurization and calorie information and cut back on beverages containing caffeine while pregnant. If you are a fruit lover, fruits such as strawberries, watermelon, grapefruit and cantaloupe contain a lot of water.
For helpful pregnancy information, view our blog frequently and contact Maternal Resourceswith any pregnancy questions you may have. We give expecting mothers the best information, testing, ultrasounds, planning and care for each situation.