Pregnancy Fitness:

Probably at the top of the list would be the value of pregnancy fitness. While fitness and physical exercise are important for everyone, it is especially important for expecting mothers.

Higher levels of physical fitness will improve uteral conditions for your baby, as well as maximize the chances of a successful birth. In addition, regular exercise helps reduce the discomfort and pain associated with the nine month ordeal. The problem of course is that pregnancy reduces some mobility.

Here are some suggestions about pregnancy fitness. First, try swimming. It reduces the stress on the joints, such as knees and back, as well as reduce the weight load, which the water will help carry.

Pilates and yoga are also good alternatives, and many gyms and fitness centers offer classes especially for pregnant women. Also, other types of fun exercise classes will help your mood, your baby's health, your delivery, and your postpartum recovery.

Pregnancy Diets:

Many people use the saying "eating for two" about pregnancy diets. However, you not truly eating for two. In fact, the caloric needs for your baby are surprisingly low. Most mothers overeat resulting in excessive weight gain. Your baby only needs roughly an additional 300 calories a day, which works out to only one or two additional snacks each day. The importance is in quality, not quantity. Look for a diet high in fiber and protein and low in empty calories and fat. Fresh fruit in the morning and nuts or cheese and crackers throughout the day is a great way to add nutrients and calories to your diet without overdoing it.

More Pregnancy Information:

In many ways, there has never been a better time to be pregnant. There are countless books, tapes and web sites about pregnancy health. More and more information and support is out there for expecting women. Scientists and doctors know more about pregnancy now than every before. Consult your physician about pregnancy fitness. True, pregnancy will always be a grueling challenge, physically, mentally and emotionally. But knowing as much as you can about pregnancy will ensure that you have a far more comfortable and healthy pregnancy and a far more healthy baby.