Are you currently pregnant? Do you hear constantly? – “Drink your water?” “Be sure to drink 8 to 10 glasses a day!” “Don’t forget your water!” “Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!!!”
Of course, your goal is most likely the same as the healthcare providers, telling you to drink water- Healthy Baby/ Healthy Mom; so the water is consumed.
Great job mamas!
However, have you wondered why you need to drink water, while pregnant? I want to share with you the reasons why you are encouraged to drink water during pregnancy.
Drinking enough water while pregnant is crucial to the health of both the mother and the baby. Due to the changes in your body during pregnancy, more fluid intake is needed. The risk of experiencing dehydration is very high when a pregnant woman does not drink enough water (Zhang,et.al.,2020). Water during pregnancy is needed to support fetal circulation, amniotic fluid, and a higher blood volume fluid. Water is the carrier of food metabolism, digestion, absorption, circulation, and excretion (Zhang,et.al.,2020).
In other words, WATER IS VERY, VERY ,VERY IMPORTANT
Did you know drinking water also helps to maintain healthy blood pressure levels, prevents constipation, regulates moods, aids in digestion by reducing gas buildup in the intestines, prevents headaches or dizziness from dehydration or low-carbohydrate intake which can be common during pregnancy.
It is recommended you drink at least eight glasses of water a day (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG),2021). Don’t worry, you don’t have to drink all 8 glasses in one sitting, you can sip throughout the day.
One challenge to staying hydrated during the day is, sometimes you do not feel thirsty, and can forget to drink water. A few simple techniques can help you stay on top of your daily quota:
- Keep a bottle near the bedside table so that you see it as soon as you wake up
- Add cucumbers 🥒 or lemons 🍋 for a refreshing drink
- Drink your water from a pretty cup or BPA free bottle
- Carry water with you wherever you go
The benefits of drinking water while pregnant are endless. The more hydrated you are, the better it is for you and your baby. So, pat yourself on the back for doing something good for yourself and your baby by drinking plenty of fluids and staying hydrated!!
Mama’s and Moms-to-be, YOU ARE AMAZING!
What helps you drink water and fluids during the day? Share below for other moms to learn tips!
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References:
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/nutrition-during-pregnancy
Montgomery KS. Nutrition Column An Update on Water Needs during Pregnancy and Beyond. J Perinat Educ. 2002;11(3):40-42. doi:10.1624/105812402X88830
Zhang N, Zhang F, Chen S, et al. Associations between hydration state and pregnancy complications, maternal-infant outcomes: protocol of a prospective observational cohort study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2020;20(1):82. Published 2020 Feb 7. doi:10.1186/s12884-020-2765-x
The Amazing Adventures of Pregnancy 