Health is a non-negotiable part of life. To be healthy is to be happy, and that is especially true when you are expecting a new bundle of joy. Staying healthy, however, can be a challenge, which is why friends and family have to help expecting parents stay on top of their health and build healthy habits right from the start. After all, it is important for the health of the baby and the health of the parents-to-be, and here is how you can help them stay on track:
Help Them Clear Out Their Home
Processed, unhealthy foods are an addiction like any other. They are also created using chemicals that render their nutritional value practically void, and as such, are best left out of anyone’s diet. Fresh and frozen whole foods, on the other hand, are packed full of essential vitamins and nutrients. Frozen food, in fact, can actually hold more nutrients than fresh food, as they would have been frozen immediately after being picked whereas fresh food could have had up to weeks in transportation.
As a friend, you can help them clear out the processed foods and stock up on healthy options.
Cook With Them
Life can get busy, and finding the time to prepare a healthy meal several times a day just isn’t feasible for many. That’s where you can come in! On a Sunday (or another day off) stop by to visit and spend the evening making meals to last the mother-to-be for the week. That way they can have healthy options every day without the extra hassle.
Exercise
You will want to ensure that any exercises you do are good for the baby, but exercise, in general, is very good for both the mother and the baby. Working out alone, however, is hard, so working out with her can keep her active and healthy.
Having Fun Without Alcohol
Quitting alcohol (and smoking!) is a necessary step all mothers need to make, but that doesn’t mean it’s an easy one. While quitting smoking has many treatment options available like nicotine gum or the patch, nothing can truly replace the thrill of going out to the party, except for more fun. Instead of planning nights out, do alternative things like shopping, going out to dinner, going to a play, seeing a live band, and so on. Stay sober with her, and she’ll have an easier time getting through her pregnancy.
This also applies to big parties like a baby shower. Rather than offering drinks to everyone but her, have virgin-cocktail options everyone can enjoy. Download free printable baby shower games from Pampers to have baby-themed fun instead of the regular party-night routine, and so on.
The adjustments expecting parents need to make to their health and their lifestyle will be difficult, but necessary for the health and future of their baby. Helping your friends make these changes will not only strengthen your bond with them but also improve their chances of successfully changing their lifestyle to a healthier and happier one.
