Sunday, September 04, 2011

Health Tips for September 4

Health Tip: Feel More Rested During Pregnancy

Fatigue is a common complaint among pregnant women, but there are things you can do to get better sleep and boost your energy.

The Womenshealth.gov website suggests how to feel more rested during pregnancy:

  • Sleep on your left side with pillows between your knees, under your belly or wherever you need support.
  • Go to bed at the same time each night, and get up at the same time each morning.
  • Go to bed a bit earlier when you feel very tired.
  • Take a nap during the day if you can't get enough sleep at night.
  • Drink most of your fluids earlier in the day, limiting them at night.

Health Tip: Drinking and Pregnancy

Drinking alcohol while you are pregnant can cause your baby to be born with a series of physical and mental birth defects called fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). It's a leading cause of mental retardation.

No one knows exactly how much alcohol a woman has to drink to cause FAS in her baby (and that level may be different among women). So experts agree that the best thing to do is not to drink alcohol at all while you are pregnant -- that includes beer, wine, wine coolers and liquor.

The March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation offers these tips to help you quit:

  • Avoid situations where you usually drink, like parties or bars.
  • Ask your health care provider about alcohol treatment programs.
  • Ask your partner, family and friends to help you stay away from alcohol.
  • Join an Alcoholics Anonymous support group.

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