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It feels like 1,000 degrees outside, your feet are swollen and your_x000D_
belly is sweating in places you didn’t think were possible. If you’re pregnant_x000D_
during the summer months, you know firsthand how uncomfortable that feeling can_x000D_
be. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
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With some helpful suggestions from medical experts, a dietician and a_x000D_
stylist, you’ll know how to dress, how to protect your sensitive skin, what to_x000D_
eat and drink and how to keep your cool until Labor Day.
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Outdoor Exercise;_x000D_
Safe Sunning
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Summer breezes are beckoning you outside, but if you will be exercising_x000D_
during your pregnancy, be careful not to overexert yourself. “In the first_x000D_
trimester in particular, it is recommended to keep core temperatures from_x000D_
getting too high,” says Dr. James Betoni, a maternal fetal doctor in Boise, Idaho_x000D_
and creator of the Pregnancy Power app (https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pregnancy-power/id1071286759?mt=8)._x000D_
As a result, it’s best to stay away from saunas and hot tubs during this_x000D_
period, and don’t exercise to an extreme. “During low-level exercise, blood_x000D_
pressure and pulse responses are not dramatically different from those in_x000D_
non-pregnant women, but fatigue may be noticed earlier,” he adds.
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Naturally, if you’ll be spending extended periods of time outdoors,_x000D_
you’ll want to protect your sensitive skin. “Expectant moms tend to have_x000D_
excellent skin turnover which gives them a bright and fresh face, but they also_x000D_
have lots of pigment activity,” notes Dr. Michael Swann, a Springfield,_x000D_
Mo.-based dermatologist (www.swanndermatology.com). He_x000D_
recommends applying mineral-based sunscreens every day and if you opt for a_x000D_
liquid sunscreen, steer clear of chemical-based formulas.
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If you do end up getting a sunburn, treat the affected skin with zinc_x000D_
and titanium-based sunscreen. “Ibuprofen can actually make many people more_x000D_
sun-sensitive, so I usually recommend acetaminophen (Tylenol) for the pain,” he_x000D_
says.
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Dress to De-Stress
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Sultry, humid weather can wreak havoc on all body types, especially_x000D_
pregnant women in later trimesters. To feel more comfortable, New York City stylist Laura Solin-Valdina (www.nycstylist.com) suggests dressing in cool fabrics: natural_x000D_
fibers like cotton that breath easily and silk, “for its luxurious feel and_x000D_
appearance.” If you don’t mind wrinkles, linen is another comfortable and airy_x000D_
choice.
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Sensible footwear is also a must for pregnant women in need of extra_x000D_
support. One of this season’s hottest trends, sandal flatforms, are perfectly_x000D_
designed with expectant moms in mind. “The soles are usually made of rubber and_x000D_
the added thickness offers that much needed extra cushioning,” she says._x000D_
“Designers of all price points are offering multiple options, but steer clear_x000D_
of flatforms with skinny straps, as your feet with undoubtedly swell and the_x000D_
fewer points of tension, the better!”
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Eating Right
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Summertime eating means plenty of grilled favorites, ice cream and other_x000D_
warm weather treats, but don’t skimp on the healthy options, too. “Pregnant_x000D_
women should continue to eat a diet that is balanced in protein, fat, healthy_x000D_
carbs and a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to ensure they are_x000D_
meeting their nutritional needs,” says Claire Shorenstein, a New York_x000D_
City-based certified dietician-nutritionist (www.b-nutritious.com)._x000D_
She praises fruits and vegetables as rich sources of vitamins, minerals and_x000D_
fiber in meals and on-the-go snacks. “If it’s too hot to turn on the stove or_x000D_
you are too tired to cook, try a salad with an assortment of raw veggies, nuts_x000D_
or seeds, your favorite protein source and a Dijon vinaigrette,” offers Shorenstein.
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Staying hydrated is especially important in hot weather, but even plain_x000D_
water can become a bit ho-hum. “Spice things up by infusing a large jug of ice_x000D_
water with your favorite sliced fruit, veggies and/or herbs,” suggests_x000D_
Shorenstein. She advises limiting sugary, non-alcoholic drinks like soda, juice_x000D_
and mocktails to special occasions.
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And if you’ll be attending any backyard BBQs this summer, go right ahead_x000D_
and enjoy grilled meats, poultry and fish (avoid swordfish and other_x000D_
high-mercury choices). And of course, don’t forget about dessert. “It’s okay to_x000D_
have a treat—ice cream has calcium—but portion control your indulgences to_x000D_
prevent gaining too much weight,” she adds.
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