How much water should pregnant women drink? What experts say here

Proper hydration is important for everyone, but it becomes even more important during pregnancy. Water plays an important role in maintaining the health and prosperity of both mother and womb. From increasing blood volume to help in digestion and absorption of nutrients, adequately hydrated is the key to healthy pregnancy. Here is a comprehensive guide and suggestions for pregnant women on the importance of hydration to ensure that they are getting enough fluids.

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Why is hydration important during pregnancy?

• Helps increase blood volume: During pregnancy, the amount of blood of a woman increases by about 50%. Water is necessary for the production of this extra blood, which helps the child to supply oxygen and nutrients.

• Help in digestion and nutrient absorption: Proper hydration helps to keep the digestive system healthy, which protects against normal pregnancy problems like constipation and hemorrhoids. It also helps in the absorption of essential nutrients from food.

• Prevents dehydration: Dehydration can lead to serious complications such as urinary tract infections, premature delivery and low amniotic fluid levels. Ensuring adequate fluid intake helps prevent these risks.

• Controls body temperature: Hormonal changes pregnant women may feel more heat than normal. Staying hydrated helps to control body temperature and prevents more heat.

• Reduces inflammation: While some inflammation is normal during pregnancy, proper hydration can help reduce excessive swelling (edema) in the hands, legs and ankles.

Pregnant women are recommended to drink at least 8-12 cups (64-96 ounces) of water per day. However, individual needs may vary depending on factors such as activity level, climate and overall health. Thirst is a good indicator that your body needs more fluids. Whenever you feel thirsty, drink water and pay attention to the symptoms of dehydration, such as dark yellow urine, dry mouth or dizziness.

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Tips to stay hydrated

• Take a bottle of water: Keep a re -appropriate water bottle with you all the time. This makes it easier to drink water throughout the day, whether you are at work, working or resting at home.

• Add your water: If plain water sounds dull, add fresh fruits, herbs, or a piece of lemon or cucumber and apply a taste. Drinking water can make it even more enjoyable.

• set reminder: Use phone alarms or apps to remind you of drinking water regularly. It can be particularly helpful if you are busy and forget to hydrate.

• Eat hydrating foods: Include foods with high water content in your diet, such as fruits (watermelons, oranges, strawberries) and vegetables (cucumbers, salads, celery).

• Monitor the intake of fluid: Keep an eye on your daily water consumption. This can help to ensure that you are meeting your hydration goals and you can allow adjustments as required.

• Stay hydrated during exercise: If you are exercising during pregnancy, it is important to drink extra water for compensation of lost fluids through sweat.

Not just water

• Herbal tea: Non-coffee herbal tea can be a soothing and hydrating option of water. However, consult your healthcare provider before trying new tea, as some herbs may not be safe during pregnancy.

• Milk and juice: Low fat milk and 100% fruit juice can contribute to your daily liquid intake. Take care of additional sugars in juice and choose freshly squeezed or slim version when possible.

• Soup and broth: Including soup and broth in your diet can provide additional fluids, especially if you are struggling to drink enough water.

When to seek symptoms and help of dehydration

If your urine is dark yellow or your mouth is dry, drink water. If you feel dizziness, dizziness or too much tired, you may be dehydrated. Decreased urine production is a certain sign of dehydration. However, if you experience serious symptoms of dehydration, such as fast heartbeat, confusion, fainting, or persistent vomiting, seek medical help immediately.

Staying properly hydrated is a simple but powerful way to support healthy pregnancy. By following these guidelines and listening to the needs of your body, you can make sure that both you and your child are well hydrated and healthy during this particular time.

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