Choosing Natural for Pregnancy

For many women, starting a family is an impetus to move toward a healthier lifestyle. Discover where to begin with better choices for supplements, body care and aromatherapy. Malia Curran is a nutrition consultant, speaker and mother of 2 young children.

For many women, starting a family is an impetus to move toward a healthier lifestyle. Discover where to begin with better choices for supplements, body care and aromatherapy. Malia Curran is a nutrition consultant, speaker and mother of 2 young children.

Nutritionist Malia Curran recommends the following supplements for pregnancy:

  • If possible, a woman should start taking a prenatal vitamin three months prior to getting pregnant.

  • DHA is an essential fatty acid found in fatty fish and fish oil that is vital for the growth of a baby’s brain and nervous system.

  • Research shows that babies born to mothers with higher amounts of DHA scored better on attention and visual learning tests.

  • For nausea, eat something—such as crackers—before you get out of bed, and ginger or ginger tea promotes a calm stomach.

Choose body care products carefully while pregnant:

  • Remember that what you put on your body can be absorbed into your body.

  • Skin, hair and oral care products can contain harsh ingredients, so choose body care with a high percentage of natural ingredients and avoid synthetic scents.

  • Dilute products containing 100% pure essential oils in equal parts with unscented varieties.

  • Look for the Whole Foods Market Premium Body Care™ label for the best choices available.

Aromatherapy can be beneficial throughout pregnancy:

  • Only 100% pure essential oils provide benefits, and synthetic scents may be harmful.

  • Before using essential oils, always consult your practitioner, and research varieties and usage specific to your stage of motherhood. During pregnancy, certain oils should be avoided.

    • Essential oils are very concentrated and can be harmful if not used properly by diluting them with carrier oils.
    • Never use essential oils directly on skin.
    • Massage is an opportunity to pamper yourself and may also promote a positive mood and comfortable, relaxed muscles and joints.

Aromatherapy can also be used during labor:

  • Candles with no petroleum wax or artificial scents can help create a warm, softly lit atmosphere.

  • Aromatherapy can also be used by inhaling essential oils from a tissue, the pillow, an electric diffuser, mists or forehead compresses.

  • During and following labor, inhaling 100% pure essential oils of rose or ylang ylang may inspire strength; grapefruit, sweet orange or peppermint may promote relaxation and focus; and mandarin, bergamot, lavender or clary sage may support a positive mood.

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