Top tips for a healthy pre and post pregnancy: Interview with Sarah from Mama Know How
/Mums have many concerns when it comes to pregnancy, especially new mums – I mean, it is a lot to take in! But we all want a smooth and healthy pregnancy to avoid any unnecessary issues. After all, we are growing a tiny precious human in our bellies who deserve the healthiest environment to grow in! In this interview, we chat with Sarah from Mama Know How to get a low down of some of the most frequently asked questions from pre to post pregnancy! She has years of knowledge and shares some very insightful tips and tricks for a smooth pregnancy. Don’t worry mum, we got your back!
What made you want to start Mama Know How?
We believe women should feel empowered and educated throughout their pregnancy and beyond. We have both had experiences with women who simply have not received the right care and education throughout their pregnancy journey which has left them feeling lost and scared. We wanted to create a forum for women to access information around prenatal, antenatal and postnatal health, exercise, nutrition and supplementation.
What is the most frequently asked question you receive from women about pregnancy?
“What exercise can I do while pregnant?” or “will pregnancy stop me from exercising the way I am used to?”
What are your top tips for a new mum to recover from giving birth?
Listen to your body – birthing a baby is an amazing feat and your body needs time to recover!
Ignore the “Instamums” – social media tends to portray a very unrealistic expectation for women postnatally. No two births are exactly the same so try to avoid comparing yourself to others. Everyone’s journey is different and it’s important to remember that!
Take your time – visit a women’s health physio around 6 weeks post birth and get an assessment. It’s important to know what’s going on inside your body!
What is your top recommended best food for pre and post pregnancy?
We live by the principle, J.E.R.F. Just Eat Real Food. Whether you’re pregnant or not we always encourage eating an array of fruits, vegetables and proteins. When shopping at the supermarket stay around the edges (fruit/veg/deli) – this is predominately where the “REAL” food is!
What are some of your best exercise tips to have a healthy pregnancy?
If possible, keep active! We’re not saying to go and run a marathon, but keep your body moving. Studies show women who exercise during pregnancy are more likely to have a better birth and recover faster post birth.
Stay hydrated – water is vital is creating blood, carrying nutrients and forming amniotic fluid for your baby.
Don’t beat yourself up if you can’t get a workout in. Have a stretch or do some exercise at home. Something small is better than sitting on the couch!
What are some of the best exercises to get that yummy mummy body how can we maintain it?
Everyone is different so we don’t believe in the ‘best’ exercise to achieve results. What we do believe in is consistency – whether its yoga, pilates, swimming, running, gym classes or personal training sessions, you can get the results you want if you stick to it! Find a friend or group to train with – you can keep each other accountable and reach your goals faster.
Why is staying hydrated so important during pregnancy?
Staying hydrated is CRUCIAL during pregnancy. Most of our body’s processes rely on water to function – especially creating those little bundles of joy! Dehydration can impact nutrients getting to your baby, breast milk production and labour – the marathon your body endures when birthing.
What advice do you have for expectant mums as they start to consider their birth plan?
When preparing for a birth plan it’s always important to remember circumstances can change in an instant. When considering a birth plan you CAN have an option 1, 2 and 3. You can always focus on your preferred option and set goals towards that preference but sometimes things don’t go to plan. Let your partner/midwife know how you feel about certain issues prior to birth so if need be, they can make the best decision for you.
Where can our yummy mamas find your business?
Our sessions aren’t run on a regular schedule, but we always post about any upcoming sessions on our Instagram, Facebook and website – and they are free! We want mamas to be able to connect and create lasting friendships through our sessions. And of course, bubs are ALWAYS welcome!
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Our Website - www.mamaknowhow.com.au