RSSNutrition has always been first and foremost a priority in my life. It’s instinct to listen to what my body needs. I also recognize a focus on proper nutrition during pregnancy provides a great start for my baby, my energy and optimum health.
That said, I was in love with my first pregnancy and, equally, food. I easily knew what foods I craved, would deliver energy, be agreeable after digestion or provide comfort. Naively I expected a rerun the second time around. This is where instinct and comfort clash. I have been knocked on my rear end trying to achieve proper nutrition. “Hello morning sickness”. This will not be the first time I will acknowledge this pregnancy is different.
Up until the last week or two, food has not been a comfort. I’ve been hard pressed to look past ‘morning’ sickness multiple times throughout the day and concentrate on what’s good for my body and my growing baby. It’s purely a labor of love.
One thing that changed my gut reaction to food was picking up The Well-Rounded Pregnancy Cookbook by Karen Gurwitz. I highly recommend it for the early days as it offers three modifications for each recipe: feeling green, feeling food and feeling full. I’m also planning on referencing it into post partum for keeping up a balanced diet.
Here’s a few other things I’ve collected early on to provide comfort for this pregnancy: A pair of Padraig slippers, Carriwell Comfort Bra, Earth Mama Angel Baby Tea and a Bella Band. Hope my reviews help you find something thoughtful for your friend’s pregnancy or your own!
Padraig slippers: You don’t need to be pregnant to enjoy these! Growing another life has actually made me chilly and achy this time around. I love the padding, the breath-ability and softness my wool Padraigs offer. The whole family deserves a pair but I’m especially finding mine to be a saving grace.
Carriwell Comfort Bra: This line is currently being introduced to North America. I wasn’t particularly taken at first glance of the lightweight cotton bra, but once I tried it on I didn’t want to take it off. I wish it could be a part of my skin during pregnancy. Any soreness or discomfort is forgotten- it’s currently a favorite of mine for the support it offers during sleep . It’s also recommended by lactation consultants so it will be kept much longer than pregnancy.
Earth Mama Angel Baby Mama to Be Tea Sampler: Oh Morning Tea relief! The ginger and mint combination has been very calming and a much needed variation from ginger ale! I love that these teas do not have fancy packaging or a tag attached to tell everyone what you are steeping! Also in this box are three other teas that encompass 100% kosher and organic concoctions to ease any discomfort from anxiety, labor and heartburn.
Bella Band: my body has evidently not forgotten how it expanded five years ago however my pants were never given fair warning for extra accommodation! I love the Bella Band’s ability to cover and smooth what I can’t fasten any longer, and hold up what is still loose so I can expand my wardrobe.
