Posted by Eliana on Sep 7, 2010 in Nutrition & Fitness, Pregnancy | 2 comments

There are never enough hours in the day to do all we need to do. It seems making time to eat right and exercise can become even harder when pregnant, especially in the first trimester. But if you make time for healthy habits, even if you only have a few extra minutes, you will find yourself with more energy, less stress and the feeling that you are doing something great for yourself and your baby. Here are a few things to start doing today.

1. Cut back on soda and coffee. Caffeine and sugar will dehydrate you. The surge of energy you feel is no doubt followed by a crash and as a result this depletes your energy for the day.

2. Drink more water. You hear this all the time but proper hydration is great for your skin, digestive system, weight loss, energy levels, and many other systems. Add a slice of orange or lime and drink up.

3. Have healthy snacks stocked and ready. When you shop, pick up things like single servings of applesauce and mini carrots. String cheese, nut packets, dried fruit and yogurt are all healthy choices that will keep you from the empty calories of fast food and vending machines.

4. Planning your meals is key. Take a few extra minutes to line out your meals for the week. Go for recipes that are simple and quick and you’ll be more likely to stick to your healthy plan.

5. Fit in exercise whenever you can. Don’t worry about the recommendations or what the best time of day to workout is…. just do what you can when you can. Even if you only have five minutes you can do a set of lunges and push-ups or walk up and down stairs in your building.

6. Get enough sleep. You will be more efficient at everything you do when you are awake if you’ve had a good nights rest. Unfortunately sleep does not accumulate. So making up for it on the weekend doesn’t count. (or banking in more time for the sleepless nights ahead… bummer)

7. Go easy on yourself. Stress is never good, especially when it comes to your health. Do your best to eat right and exercise for you and your baby, but don’t sweat it if you miss a beat. Think of going for your best 90% of the time… or maybe just 80%.

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About the Author:

Jessica Apodaca

Jessica is a personal trainer, yoga instructor, and nutrition specialist. She’s the founder of www.potentfitness.com . Her mission is to build relationships that center around health, fitness and well-being. She also leads the Mighty Mama ‘s Club, a stroller fitness camp program that allows moms to workout with their babies.

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