6. Skipping breakfast
Experts advise that pregnant women eat three small meals and two snacks at regular intervals to help maintain steady blood glucose (sugar) levels. But many women habitually skip breakfast. Experts say skipping breakfast, after sometimes nine to twelve hours of not eating, increases the risk of premature labor. While you may be experiencing morning sickness, ease into a little food. Crackers by the bed can help you before you get up. And a little food in the belly often diminishes nausea. Once you’re up, fix yourself a light breakfast.
7. Not addressing your emotional well-being
When you are stressed and over-stretched, your body often doesn’t absorb all the nutrients in food. Studies also show that stress has a negative impact on your diet choices. Remember binging on chocolate or junk food when cramming for exams? We reach for comfort food when stressed, and sweets and chips have empty calories—not helping the baby and adding additional weight for mom. Try to get enough sleep and talk with your doctor about solutions such as yoga or a counseling group for expectant moms.
8. You let Dad install the infant car seat at zero hour
Big mistake. When you are being wheeled out of the hospital, you don’t want to find Dad wrestling with the car seat, realizing he’s not sure how to install it, or if he’s doing it correctly. Buy and install it at least a month before your due date and find a community car seat “checkpoint,” like a fire station or police station to inspect it.
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