Busting Pregnancy Nutrition Myths Dr. Kelly often hears the same mis- conceptions, and she’s quick to set the record straight: • Eating for two: Still the most per- sistent. Remember: just one extra snack, not double meals. • No exercise allowed: Dr. Kelly en- courages continued activity, with some safety precautions like avoiding heated rooms and high-fall-risk sports. • No caffeine at all: Unnecessary. Limit to 200mg per day (about two small cups of coffee). • A glass of wine is okay: Dr. Kelly is clear: There is no known safe amount of alcohol in pregnancy. A glass of wine is not okay. Foods to Avoid Entirely Some foods are best left off the preg- nancy menu due to safety concerns. High-mercury fish (like swordfish and king mackerel), raw or undercooked meats and eggs, unpasteurized dairy, and deli meats can carry harmful bac-
they’re craving while still maintaining a balanced diet.
teria or toxins. Alcohol is a no-go, and Dr. Kelly also notes the importance of washing fruits and veggies thoroughly and skipping any food that’s been sitting out too long—especially dishes with mayo or dairy. When it comes to pot- lucks and holiday gatherings, just to be safe, “Bring something that you know you can eat,” she adds. Don’t Forget to Hydrate Proper hydration is vital during preg- nancy. The general recommendation is 8 to 12 cups of water per day. Dr. Kelly suggests mixing it up with electrolyte drinks, seltzers, or coconut water, but advises against sugary beverages. Cravings, Aversions, and Knowing When to Ask for Help Cravings and aversions are a normal part of pregnancy, and Dr. Kelly encour- ages patients not to stress over them. Aversions are often temporary and tend to resolve after birth. She talks through cravings with each patient individually and helps them find ways to enjoy what
But one of her biggest takeaways? Don’t go it alone. Dr. Kelly emphasizes the importance of reaching out to your OB-GYN or a nurse before making any major changes, like cutting caffeine, starting a new diet, or stopping a med- ication. She notes that some patients stop things abruptly, not realizing it might not be necessary or could even have unintended consequences. When in doubt, ask questions early so your care team can offer guidance that sup- ports both your health and your baby’s. Bottom line: Pregnancy is not the time to go it alone, especially when it comes to food, movement, or lifestyle changes. Reach out. Ask questions. And remember, there’s no one-size- fits-all approach. Your OB-GYN is your partner on this journey.
SPRING/SUMMER 2025 | PINK&BLUE
21
Made with FlippingBook Digital Publishing Software