Image: Shutterstock
Monsoon season can be exciting for most pregnant mothers. And why not? You get to snuggle up in a blanket with a warm cup of chai and pakoras or hot cocoa while binge-watching your favorite series. The weather makes it feel like you are on holiday in your own home. Nothing beats the comfort and coziness that monsoon brings, but the cold and flu season calls for measures to boost your immune system.
A weak immune system makes you susceptible to infections and recurring cold and flu and robs you of the chance of enjoying the perfect weather while awaiting your baby’s arrival. So, to make your journey a lot smoother, we bring you 6 tips that will help boost immunity while pregnant.
1. Follow A Nutritious Diet
Image: Shutterstock
Pregnant women are always advised to eat healthy regardless of the season. So, make sure you follow the same throughout your pregnancy without compromising on your diet. Your diet should include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat milk and milk products, and protein from healthy sources. If you are a vegetarian, talk to your doctor to make sure you are getting enough calcium, protein, vitamins, and nutrients from your diet. A healthy diet also means limiting unhealthy foods such as salt, sugar-sweetened drinks, and solid fats.
2. Get Enough Sleep
Image: Shutterstock
While most of us know the importance of sleep on our health and immune system, we often fail to prioritize it over screen-time. If you are planning to boost your immunity, sleep is a must. But pregnancy discomforts can make it impossible to get uninterrupted sleep during the second and third trimester. You can buy a pregnancy pillow to help you sleep better at night. Also, stop drinking water 2 hours before bedtime to avoid frequent urge to pee. If you experience backache or heartburn, try sleeping in a slightly elevated position. It might provide you some relief.
3. De-Stress
Image: Shutterstock
Stress can take a toll on your physical and emotional well-being. In these trying times, it can be hard to keep stress at bay. Keep your daily news feed to a minimum and instead, watch things that make you happy. Watch news only from trusted sources and avoid getting information from Whatsapp forwards. You can also try meditation or yoga (with your doctor’s approval). Meditation has proven to lower blood pressure and heart rate as well as reduce anxiety. It also helps you sleep better at night (1).
4. Work Out
Image: Shutterstock
Exercise builds immunity and helps our body function better (2). But working out can be challenging especially if you work a 9 to 5 job and have to take care of your family. However, try to squeeze a 20-minutes workout window in your daily schedule. Talk to your doctor and once you get the approval, take it slow and steady. Do exercises that are safe during pregnancy and make sure you don’t strain yourself.
5. Practice Good Hygiene
Image: Shutterstock
Pregnant women have to be particularly careful during the monsoon season since the chances of catching a cold or infection is higher. Make sure you are dressed for the weather when stepping outdoors. Wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes. Avoid street foods no matter how tempting they may seem. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and make sure you avoid eating anything undercooked or raw. Follow the practice of washing your hands with soap and water as soon as you get back from outside.
6. Eat Immune Boosting Foods
Image: Shutterstock
Including certain foods in your diet will help strengthen your immune system and fight off viruses or bacteria that may cause an infection or disease. Make sure you include foods such as turmeric, garlic, spinach, almonds, oranges, sweet potato, kefir, and ginger in your diet. They are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties and offer other health benefits for a stronger immune system (3).
Lastly, make sure to maintain a positive mindset. We know that times are scary and it is easy to spiral into negative thoughts. While it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, don’t forget to pamper yourself and give in to your cravings every once in a while as long as you don’t compromise on hygiene.
Did you find our article helpful? If yes, share it with your friends and family members to help them improve their immunity this monsoon.
