Over the past few months, we have walked through each of the major milestones of your pregnancy and how to set yourself up for success throughout this time in your life. The healthy habits you start during pregnancy can help you throughout your life and influence your child since you are their first teacher and role model. Healthy choices can begin with planning what you eat, listening to your body and its needs, and celebrating everything your body can do.
Meal planning helps to save time and money by taking away the stress of figuring out what you are going to eat each day. Taking time to think through what meals to make each week can make healthy choices easier for your whole household to follow. It is especially important as a mom to plan your meals so that you are eating enough calories to support your overall health. Here are a few tips to get you started with meal planning and preparing to set you up for success.
Now that you are a parent, one of your priorities is caring for your newborn. The best way to care for your child is to take care of yourself. That includes listening to your body. Your body will tell you when it needs to rest and recharge; it will also tell you when it needs energy from food. Take a few moments throughout each day to check in with yourself. How do you physically feel? When was the last time you sat down to eat a nourishing meal? How are you feeling emotionally? The more you know yourself and your needs, the better you can address them and ultimately make you the best version of yourself. Create a support group of your family, friends, coworkers, neighbors, and healthcare providers during this time.
Body positivity is a social movement that strives to accept all bodies, regardless of size, shape, skin tone, gender, or physical abilities. After going through your pregnancy, it is important to celebrate all that your body has gone through. Everyone’s pregnancy journey will look unique, so do not compare yourself to other mothers around you. Remember, your body has nourished your baby and brought new life into the world. So, be kind to yourself and love the body that has done so much for you!
Going grocery shopping on an empty stomach may not be the best way to plan out your next meal. Take some time each week to plan with your partner what is scheduled for the week and what meals you would like to eat.