By Anita Mirchandani
Are you planning on traveling during pregnancy? Unless your doctor advises you otherwise, it is perfectly safe to do so, but it has its own set of challenges and guidelines. After all, if you can't get comfortable in your own bed, how can you possibly manage countless hours in a car or on a plane? Whether you are going away for a baby moon or a business trip, you can stay comfy and healthy. Here are 5 wellness tips for traveling during pregnancy.
1.Pack an empty water bottle in your carry-on. Carrying a water bottle ensures constant hydration which is extremely important during pregnancy. Adequate hydration will also help curb your appetite away from unnecessary calories. We love the OXO Strive Propel bottle, as it's super easy to use and clean -- a must for on-the-go functionality.
2.Invest in a pair of compression socks. If you're on a flight longer than 3-4 hours, it's important to keep your blood flowing. If you're not always up to walking around during the longer flights, it's a good idea to invest in a pair of compression socks -- such as a pair from Vim & Vigr. Compression begins at the ankle and increases the circulation throughout the leg, upwards flowing.
3.Practice yoga. On the day of your trip, try to spend 10-15 minutes doing yoga stretches. That will help alleviate tightness or tension throughout the body. If you're carrying a heavier tote bag, open up your chest. If you're taking a long flight, try the pigeon stretch or runner's pose to help loosen up the hip flexor and IT band.
4.Pack your snacks. During pregnancy, when hunger hits, it REALLY hits. Try not to wait until that breaking point by keeping easy snacks on hand. For example, crackers with nut butter, fruit slices, a medium banana, and 6oz. greek yogurt are all good options. Traveling with a lunch bag full of options will help control those hunger pains and help maintain healthy eating patterns.
5.Foam Roll. Packing a foam roll seems daunting, especially when you're traveling light, BUT... It's such a handy way to feel better instantly! The GRID foam roller by Trigger Point is an excellent travel addition and if that is too bulky, check out the GRID STK Foam Roller. Take 2 to 3 minutes pre and post-flight and use the roller to unwind tension caused by travel.
6.Nip nausea. Traveling to hotter climate or high altitudes can bring on nausea or make morning sickness even worse. So it's important to arm yourself. If you're one of those (like myself!) who feels nauseated or suffers from motion sickness on flights ESPECIALLY when turbulence kicks in, it's important to arm yourself. Products, like anti-nausea bands and peppermint oil, could help you beat motion (and morning) sickness on board and at your destination.
More from Well Rounded NY:
The "Knocked Up" Smoothie Pregnant Celebs are Loving
5 Anytime Yoga Poses for Pregnancy
How to Cope with Morning Sickness
This piece was originally published by Anita Mirchandani on Well Rounded NY. Anita Mirchandani, M.S, R.D, C.D.N received a B.A. from NYU and a M.S. in Clinical Nutrition from NYU. After completing a dietetic internship at New York-Presbyterian hospital in 2011, Anita is now a practicing Registered Dietitian. Anita also maintains current certifications in indoor cycling, kickboxing, group exercise, personal training and pre/postnatal exercise specialization. In 2012, Anita co-founded FitMapped, a platform to help users find fitness easily and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Anita represents the New York State Dietetic Association as media spokesperson. Follow @FitNutAnita for interesting updates of fitness and nutrition content.
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