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Liquid Health

Smart Nutrition for Thirsty Moms

By Dr. Aneema Van Groenou

Juices are a good way for you to get some vitamins, but you should not drink juice instead of water. And don't skip your prenatal vitamins, which have nutrients that you will probably not get enough of, even from fruit or vegetable juices, such as folic acid and iron.

You can get vitamin C from orange, carrot, melon or berry juices and especially fresh juice. Vitamin C is important for growing tissues and bones. Mango juice will give you some vitamin E, which boosts your immune system. Some vegetable juices will provide complex-B vitamins, but keep an eye on the high sodium levels that can make the swelling in your ankles and legs much worse.

Be aware that if you have a history of diabetes or have developed gestational diabetes (diabetes during your pregnancy), you may need to limit the amount of juice you drink, since it is often high in carbohydrates or sugars.

Many active women choose to hydrate with sports drinks that replace electrolytes (salts) that the body loses with a lot of sweating. If you are exercising, sports drinks may help you stay better hydrated, but they are not a good substitute for plain water. Keep in mind that these drinks may also contain artificial sweeteners and preservatives that are best avoided during pregnancy.

You can find caffeine in coffee, tea and colas, but also in a number of unexpected sources, like chocolate, decaffeinated coffee, chocolate milk, iced tea, energy drinks and clear sodas. Drinking caffeine may actually make it difficult to become pregnant in the first place. As little as half a cup of coffee per day can cause miscarriages and, in one study, three cups of coffee per day reduced women's chances of getting pregnant by 26 percent.

Want to see more?

• Eating for Two
• Nutrition is Key: Prevent Complications and Give Birth to a Healthier Baby
• Pregnancy During the Holidays: Avoiding the Extra Sweets and Treats of the Season
• Talk about it!

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