When I was a surrogate, carrying a child for intended parents, I seemed to be more in tune with what I was putting into my body and how I was looking after myself. Don’t get me wrong, my own two pregnancies were healthy and I took care of myself, but surrogacy brings a different spin to it all. I have been asked to put together a “TOP 5 WELLNESS TIPS” by fellow surrogates, and wanted to share it here. What additional things would you add?
1. Eat Fresh Foods. Eat a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains to get balanced nutrition. While they may be convenient, try to avoid packaged foods as they are loaded with preservatives and provide little to no nutritional value
2. Eat Smaller Meals Through the Day. Start with breakfast and eat every two to three hours. These smaller meals should include protein, whole grains, and healthy fats to stabilize blood sugar, which will ultimately regulate hunger and mood.
3. Folic Acid. Taking 400 mcg of folic acid during pre-pregnancy and pregnancy (especially the first trimester) has been shown to reduce neural tube defects. Folic acid should be a part of your prenatal vitamins. Some favourite foods of mine, which contain folic acid, are peas and spinach
4. Happiness and Support. Spend time with your support people during your surrogacy. Research suggests that the child’s well-being is linked to the woman’s mental health during pregnancy. I had a regular dessert night with one of my local surrosisters to keep me laughing and feeling supportive…something we continued with her surrogacy.
5. Drink Water. I am not a bit water drinker normally, so for all my pregnancies I set an alarm for every two hours as a reminder to fill my cup! It helped to make it a habit 😉