Fatigue reducers for moms-to-be
Have a bad case of the yawns? Can’t keep your eyes open? There’s a reason for your tiredness. You’re building another whole body! Your body produces more blood, causing your heart to work overtime.
Nausea may be sapping your energy, as well as robbing you of vital nutrients. And changing sleep patterns may have resulted in insomnia. Take heart. In your next trimester, you’ll feel more wide awake.
How to re-energize
- Take a nap. Even if it’s only a catnap of 15 minutes, cuddle up under an afghan and let yourself drift off.
- Briskly walk before dinner. It will help you sleep more soundly at night.
- Eat frequent, small meals. They’ll give you energy all day.
- Power lunch. Eat lunches that boost your energy. Try sliced chicken breast or a bowl of split-pea soup that’s high in iron and protein and won’t let you down in the middle of the afternoon.
- Snack smart. Try dried fruit or fortified cereal for a carbohydrate boost. Nuts and olives contain modest amounts of monounsaturated fats that fuel the body.
- Pull up a chair. Do as many household chores as you can while seated. Food preparation, laundry folding, and ironing all will be less fatiguing.
- Stay within weight gain guidelines. The heavier you are, the more tired you’ll feel.