Summer isn’t quite over. If you’re expecting, you may feel like the cooler temps couldn’t arrive any sooner for your pregnancy survival. If you’re looking for ways to survive the rest of this summer and the resulting low energy, here is my list of hacks which most definetly include moctails (faux-coctails) and toast. Read more and see…
#1 Mocktails
Staying hydrated can help to improve energy levels, ward off nausea, and beat the heat. Mocktails are a great way to treat yourself during the summer months!
…and this is one time you can have a fancy drink before noon without anyone judging you!
Here’s one of my favorite mocktail recipes from Genevieve Howland’s book – The Mama Natural Week-by-Week Guide to Pregnancy & Childbirth:
The Ginger Snap
Ingredients:
- 2 lemons
- 1 tablespoon raw honey (or 15 drops liquid stevia)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 heaping teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 quart filtered water
Preparation:
Juice your lemons and add to a quart Mason jar. Add sweetener, apple cider vinegar, and ginger. Fill the jar with water and mix well. Let sit for 15 minutes, strain the ginger, and add ice (if desired).
#2 Toast
Keep something in your belly. Even if all you can handle is toast, something is better than nothing while you’re pregnant. Running on empty is a surefire way for pregnancy fatigue to get the upper hand. Avoiding an empty stomach will go far in helping you feel your best.
Pairing your mocktail with hearty toast can also help ease morning sickness. Add some egg, avocado, and tomato – if your stomach can handle it – to make sure you’re staying nourished. Even better – take yourself out to brunch with our friends at Fort Collins Famous Toastery.
Give me a shout before you go – I may have some coupons to share with you!
#3 Take a Hiatus
Work, volunteer gigs, boards, committees. They provide us with a full life and connect us to our community. If you’re feeling like you need one more hour of sleep than usual (…or two…or four), you are allowed to take some things off your plate. I hereby give you permission to take a hiatus from one of your responsibilities while you work on growing your tiny human.
#4 Wash Your Sheets
I know. It’s a chore – which is the opposite of relaxing. But, a fresh, clean bed could be just what you need to settle down, snuggle in, and get some good sleep. Make your bedroom an oasis of rest.
#5 Make Friends with Ginger & Peppermint
These natural ingredients are mama’s best friend when you’re trying to cool off and keep the nausea at bay. Iced peppermint tea and ginger lollipops may be your secret recipe for enjoying the last days of summer in anticipation of your new addition. You can also incorporate both into everything from dinner recipes (Pad Thai, anyone?) to smoothies and homemade ice cream.
Of course, your mocktails are also a great way to add a little flavor to your summer. This Greyhound Mocktail is a hit – even for people who can have the “real” deal.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups white grape juice
- Fresh Mint
- 1 cup pink grapefruit juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 bottle club soda or gingerale
- Pink grapefruit slices
Preparation:
In a large pitcher, combine all three juices. Refrigerate. Just before serving, add the club soda and grapefruit slices (and other fruit, if you’d like). Garnish with Candied Ginger or Fresh Mint
#6 Rule Out Serious Issues
Sometimes low energy and morning sickness can be a sign of more serious health issues. Low iron and vitamin deficiency can cause extreme fatigue and can be easily treated. Morning sickness that results in weight loss and decreased urination may be a sign of Hyperemesis Gravidarum.
If any of your symptoms feel more severe than common pregnancy-related conditions, talk to your provider to be sure that there are no underlying health issues that may require medical treatment.
#7 Get Your Blood Pumping
Getting a little exercise can make a world of difference for your energy levels and all around happiness. You already knew that, but I’m here to tell you to make it a priority. I’ve yet to meet anyone who regretted taking the dog for a walk or signing up for a gentle yoga class.
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