Morning Sickness

You feel extremely exhausted and your boobs hurt. Then, nausea kicks in.
The stick says you're pregnant. Now what?!
Should you put a stop to your fitness routine?
Sit on the couch for the next 8-9 months eating bon-bons?

I have coached over 22 pregnancies, each one so different, so exciting -- I get giddy when someone tells me their news! However, the first trimester can be a pretty harsh experience, even unbearable. Estimates reveal that 60-80 percent of women experience nausea and/or vomiting that usually subsides after the 12th-14th week of pregnancy. Over the years, I have come up with some ways to help alleviate symptoms of morning sickness.

• Always have a bland snack (saltines, cheerios, a granola bar) in your purse.
  
• Drink lots of water. Vomiting can dehydrate you and send you into the hospital.
• Go for a walk. Several times a day.
  
• Work out! The more you move, the more distracted you'll be and the less nauseous you'll feel.
• Just say no to fatty, greasy foods. Even if you crave them. Packing on pounds too early will lead to regret later. It only takes 300 extra calories a day to make a baby! You're not eating for 2, no matter if it's twins!
  
• Sleep!
  
• Listen to your body -- there's a lot going on in there. You'll feel your heart rate spike anytime you get off the couch. Allow yourself to take it a little easier than normal.
• Eat smaller meals more frequently. Nausea usually hits an empty or full stomach.
• Snack on ginger chews, a homeopathic anti-nausea remedy. My favorite is spicy apple.
• If your morning sickness is unbearable, try acupuncture
• Know that morning sickness is temporary. Tomorrow is a better day. Stay optimistic.
  

And, remember: you're not an invalid. You're pregnant! People have had babies since day 1. Continue living your life...happy mommy, happy baby.