3 ways to support your immunity during pregnancy

When you’re carrying your little ones you want to be as healthy as possible. Falling ill during pregnancy can be hard because in the majority of cases your doctor will only allow you to take paracetamol. This is because of the risks some medicines and painkillers pose to your unborn baby.

Eat well

You should take a daily vitamin supplement that has been specially developed for pregnancy to make sure that both your body and your baby’s body receives the recommended daily amount of vitamins. There are actually over fifty different vitamins that you need whilst pregnant but the most important is vitamin D. You need to take folic acid until the 12^th week of your pregnancy and make sure you eat healthily during the whole of your pregnancy. Your body only needs around 200 extra calories a day so try to opt for nutritious immune boosting food over cakes and biscuits.

Protect yourself and your baby

Suffering from the flu is never a pleasant experience and can lead to complications in pregnancy. Make sure you get your free flu jab when it’s offered to you by your midwife or GP. It’s advisable to get the whooping cough vaccine too so that your baby will be protected from birth until they have their first vaccinations at eight weeks old. The best time for you to get the whooping cough vaccine is when you’re between 20 and 32 weeks pregnant. It is possible to have other vaccinations if needed but your doctor will advise you on which are safe and which you’re best having after your baby is born.

Listen to your body

Keeping fit is important but you shouldn’t do anything too strenuous, especially if you didn’t exercise before falling pregnant. Why not go for daily walks or join a pregnancy water aerobics class? Your midwife should be able to provide you with details of groups running in your local area. It’s important to recognise when your body needs a rest and slow down. Trying to do everything can leave you feeling drained. If you’re not sleeping well at night, try to have a nap in the daytime if you can. If you feel unwell, always speak to your midwife or doctor about it- don’t suffer in silence. Read more: 3 pregnancy basics you need to know Advice is for information only and should not replace medical care. Please check with your GP before trying any remedies. Shop Vitamins & Supplements Last updated: 15 April 2020