5 Ways to Boost Immunity When Pregnant

Falling ill when pregnant can be twice as scary – after all, it’s not just you anymore; it’s you and the baby. And ironically, it is during pregnancy that the immune system is naturally suppressed so that the body doesn’t reject the fetus as a foreign body – this means that you are more susceptible to falling ill at this time. So how do you prevent infections and other health problems? 

Someone has said: "What you eat is what you are." These words become all the more significant when you are pregnant. Nutrition and lifestyle must be given top priority to ensure a healthy baby and a healthy you. [Explore expert's answers: what to eat when pregnant?] 

Healthy Habits to Boost Immune System During Pregnancy Time

Falling sick is not an option – building up immunity is the right option. Here is what you can do to naturally boost your immunity during these nine months...

Eat Eight

Pregnancy comes with cravings that are oh-so-difficult to control! For some it’s chocolate cake, for some, it’s fried food. I say get creative and give a healthy twist to whatever it is that you feel like eating! Buy seasonal fruits and make a fresh fruit salad with a tangy dressing, or a fruit wheat cake or a rich smoothie (google for recipes). Keep healthy snacks with you, at all times – almonds, figs, raisins, dates, carrot sticks or walnuts. Nuts are powerhouses of vitamins and minerals. [Must Know: What foods to eat when pregnant?]  

Regular Exercise - Like it or Not 

You cannot give this a miss. Exercise plays a huge role in keeping you fit during pregnancy. There are several workouts specially designed for pregnant women, so find something you enjoy. Prenatal yoga not only keeps your body fit but it de-stresses the mind too. Staying active through your pregnancy ensures that the weight gain is not excessive and can help prevent gestational diabetes too.   

Don't Forget to Meet Doctor

Your doctor has prescribed some vitamins, folic acid, calcium and other supplements for a reason. So put up sticky notes or whatever it takes but don’t forget to take these, as prescribed. Since we spend a lot of time indoors and don’t get enough of sunshine, it is important to include a Vitamin D supplement – check with your gynecologist before you start.

Prevent if You Can 

A change in weather and you’ll find a surge in flu cases. Recently, the mosquito menace was a real scare. I would suggest that you check with your gynecologist for vaccinations (wherever possible) that are safe during pregnancy such as the H1N1 Swine flu vaccine.

More Relax

One of the biggest causes of low immunity is stress. What affects your mind will affect your body. So, here’s a final piece of advice: Keep all negative thoughts at bay. Instead, put your feet up, read a book or listen to some music. More options: Get a prenatal massage, meet a friend for a chat or talk to plants! Do whatever it takes, but don’t stress. Trust me – when stress is out, your immune system is up and about. 

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