Sally Kravich: The Natural Health Expert    holistic health consultant, nutrition, iridology
ASK SALLY > Pregnancy Tips

Pregnancy Tips

For years, I have coached women through pregnancy preparation: what to do before, during, and after pregnancy. There are numerous families who have benefited from this advice! Here are a few tips to follow if you are planning on getting pregnant.

Know that your body will stretch to accommodate a baby and extra weight will have an effect on your structural framework and digestive organs. You will want to support these areas in the best possible way for you.

Babies do live off their mother's nutrients, so the old adage that you are eating for two is true, however it does not necessarily mean volume, but it does mean nutrients!

I have yet to see a prenatal vitamin that covers a mother's and baby's needs. The nutrients that are currently sufficiently covered in prenatal vitamins are: folic acid, iron, and vitamin D. I have my pregnant women supplement with extra fatty acids, B complex, and calcium. Depending upon the individual the amounts will change and some other nutrients will be added to the mix.

Prior to pregnancy, change and improve your diet, so that your internal environment will be more conducive to carrying a healthy pregnancy. Remove ALL artificial sweeteners, colors, dyes, nitrites, fake foods, moldy cheeses, and products that have been hormonally or chemically enhanced. It's wise to do a yeast and sugar detoxification before pregnancy and use toning and cleansing herbs to support the female system. I suggest specific formulas for my clients.

Every pregnancy is different. You may have morning sickness or may not.
The better an internal environment you begin with, the easier the pregnancy. However, there will still be cravings. Some of these will have to do with what the baby needs and some will have to do with how acidic or yeasty the mother is. Learning to differentiate is important, and you will still have to go with the flow of what feels good.

Women who are receiving IVF treatments can benefit from this advice and do well with my eating and nutrient programs.

Having a dullah or midwife is helpful, but you need to have an OBGYN on board who goes along with your philosophy and desires. You can have the best of intentions, practice correct breathing, go to pre-natal yoga classes, eat the perfect food, take the right nutrients, be in a great mental and emotional state, and there can still be a glitch, where a doctor or C-section is imperative.

Pre-delivery nutrients and post delivery nutrients are essential for the mother's well-being. Three weeks prior to delivery there will be a shift and after delivery you will want to re-tone the uterus. Although nursing will helps this process, there are herbs that can assist. If you have been on the right combination of nutrients before and after pregnancy, there is less likelihood for extreme hormonal imbalances and mood swings.

To receive the best possible advice for pregnancy, you can schedule a consultation with me. I have found that it is best to make changes before pregnancy, during the different trimesters, and after pregnancy. Each stage requires adjustments.