Being pregnant is a big challenge, especially for women used to doing skin care procedures. There are a lot of ingredients and chemicals which shouldn’t be used for pregnant women because they are unsafe for the baby. While products like Missha are generally safe for use during pregnancy, the best approach would be using natural products.
When it comes to achieving beautiful and radiant skin, your kitchen may actually have all the ingredients you need to eat your way towards your healthy pregnancy goal. After all, studies have shown that aside from a proper skincare regimen and supervised pregnancy exercises, eating a diet full of healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin C is another key step in achieving a youthful and glowing appearance.
To start, here are some key ingredients you need to add in your diet plus simple recipes:
Power Breakfast:
This power breakfast includes healthy options like oatmeal for healthy cholesterol levels, walnuts to help boost collagen production, strawberries for antioxidants, and green tea for added vitamins. Women need collagen in order to have radiant skin especially during pregnancy. Green tea is a healthy substitute to coffee for energy during pregnancy so it’s important to get tea instead of cola or coffee.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of Oatmeal
- Handful of walnuts
- Handful of sliced strawberries
- Chia seeds and milk
- 1 Green tea (tea bag)
Preparation:
- Cook oatmeal as instructed. If you are in a hurry you can use instant oatmeal instead.
- Top with a handful of walnuts and sliced strawberries for added flavor and texture.
- Add Chia seeds and milk for added nutrition and strong maternal bones.
- Boil water before adding in the green tea. Allow it to steep for 3 minutes before taking out the bag.
- Eat and enjoy your healthy breakfast!
This simple yet powerful breakfast has the perfect balance of carbohydrates, vitamins, protein and calcium. Calcium is one of the most important nutrients a pregnant woman should have for strong bones and luscious supply of breast milk. Having a well-balanced meal also allows you to function well enough for your day to day activities without worrying about gaining too much pregnancy weight.
For optimal flavor, chia seeds and milk can be mixed together in a mason jar and stored in the refrigerator for at least 3 hours. Berries, bananas and cocoa powder can be added for flavor and variety to that mixture. It is also the perfect healthy snack for an expecting mother who wants flavor without the guilt of sugar.
Lunch or Dinner: Pan-seared fish with a side salad
Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel are great sources of omega-3 acids that ensure heart health as well as amino acids that help keep your skin soft. Red bell peppers, kale, spinach, lettuce, and cucumbers are excellent sources of Vitamin C and fiber, while a slice of lemon can add a little zest to your fish before eating.
Remember to eat these in moderation because seafood is generally avoided during pregnancy, but their nutrients are also important for your growing baby.
Ingredients:
- Fish fillet (salmon, tuna, mackerel)
- Salt and pepper
- Red bell peppers
- Kale, spinach, lettuce, cucumbers
- 1 slice of lemon
Instructions:
- Wash and pat fish fillet dry. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
- Prepare pan over medium heat. Add a small slice of butter before placing the fish in the pan. Add another slice of butter on the pan before cooking the other side. Make sure to cook all ends evenly.
- Wash and chop lettuce, kale, spinach, and cucumbers and toss them into a salad. Add your favorite light dressing for extra flavor and set it on the plate.
- Move cooked fish to the plate with salad on the side. Top with a lemon slice you can squeeze over the meat and vegetables for added flavors.
Aside from healthy meals, radiant skin is also achieved by taking essential nutrients such as folic acid, iron and magnesium which are all important in the development of your baby. Multivitamins especially vitamin B complex are crucial to repair nerves and cells, as well as prevent your feet from swelling during pregnancy.
When it comes to achieving youthful and glowing skin during pregnancy, opt for food sources that are rich in omega 3s, fiber, lean proteins, Vitamin C, and probiotics. Fortunately, several of these food items are readily available in supermarkets and can be prepared in a number of ways! Remember to eat a moderate amount and drink lots of water throughout the day.
About the Author:
Cindy Mendoza is a passionate hands-on mom and beauty blogger from yesstyle.com. She loves writing about nutrition, fitness, pregnancy health and wellness for future moms. She hopes to become an ambassador for women health and welfare in her community. She is an avid traveler and a fan of different cultures and beliefs; immersing in various rural regions to contribute a voice to the oppressed by means of raising social awareness and participation in the community.