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Busting those pregnancy myths

There are loads and loads of myths that you hear during your pregnancy days. Some you know from personal experience while others you may hear from your near and dear ones.
 
 
Hey you pretty mom-to-be! Smile, coz’ below we’re going to bust some of those myths once and for all:
 
Myth #1: If you don’t exercise, don’t start now
 
Moderate prenatal exercise can be a great benefit to you and your baby. The real threat is inactivity, so make it a point to get up and move around.
 
Myth #2: Exercise in the first trimester can cause a miscarriage
 
Exercise can make for a healthier pregnancy, as long as your doctor has given you a go ahead. While miscarriages typically appear in the first trimester, this is more to do with other issues.
 
 
Myth #3: Running is unsafe
 
Running in moderation is safe and it will not hurt your baby. If your body feels comfortable, you can continue. Keeping in mind, excessive running will leave you tired and your body might find it hard to cope.
 
Myth #4: If I gain less weight, delivery will be easier
 
You need to remember that not gaining enough weight can place your baby at risk of severe complications like premature birth, which can cause lung and heart problems.
 
Myth #5: I should not consume any caffeine
 
You do not need to cut out caffeine completely, but don’t have more than 200mg a day.
 
Myth #6: I only crave the foods my body needs
 
Cravings are not the main indicator of your nutritional needs; you may crave food of any type.
 
Myth #7: Exercise causes a lower birth weight
 
If you’re eating a healthy diet and carrying out moderate exercise, your baby’s weight will not be affected. Make sure your calorie intake is in line with being pregnant and do not overexert yourself.
 
Myth #8: Seafood is off the menu for me
 
Many fish and shellfish are safe to eat during pregnancy, provided that they are thoroughly cooked. Salmon, shrimp, squid, crab and tilapia are safe options. Don’t eat fish that are high in mercury content such as shark, hammour, swordfish, tuna and king of mackerel.
 
Myth #9: Core exercise can hurt my baby
 
On the contrary, core exercises are known to minimise lower-back pain and build your strength. Avoid doing abdominal moves lying on your back after the first trimester. Train with a qualified prenatal fitness instructor who can guide you on what positions work best.
 
Myth #10: I can’t eat cheese
 
Cheese is known to be a great source of calcium, but avoid soft or mould ripened cheese like Brie and Camembert or blue cheese like Danish or Stilton. These types of cheese feature moulds which could be problematic in pregnancy.