Why Hydration Is Crucial During Pregnancy: The Benefits of Electrolytes
Staying hydrated is an important daily goal throughout our lives, especially at different stages of life and when we have certain health conditions. Hydration is even more essential during pregnancy. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends drinking 8 to 12 cups (64 to 96 ounces) of water every day to support a healthy pregnancy, and electrolytes can offer an added boost.
5 Reasons Why Hydration Is Important When Pregnant
1. Supports fetal development
Water helps form the amniotic fluid around the fetus and transport essential nutrients and oxygen to them. This is key for healthy development. Being dehydrated can actually reduce the amount of amniotic fluid, which can be a health risk for the baby.
2. Aids in digestion
Pregnancy increases the likelihood of constipation due to hormonal changes and pressure on the bowels. Water helps nutrients be absorbed throughout your body, aids the flow of digestion, and softens stool to help prevent constipation.
3. Regulates body temperature
Pregnancy can cause an increase in body temperature. Hydrating as recommended can help regulate body temperature and prevent overheating, which can help reduce the risk of complications.
4. Reduces the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Unfortunately, pregnant women are more prone to UTIs because of pressure on the bladder from the expanded uterus that can cause some urine to linger after peeing. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out harmful bacteria and reduces the risk of developing a UTI.
5. Helps prevent early contractions.
Dehydration can trigger early contractions,. Staying hydrated is especially important during the last trimester to help reduce this risk. If you think you are consistently or clinically dehydrated, please talk to your doctor.
Also, it may seem counter intuitive, but staying properly hydrated during pregnancy can actually help you retain less fluid.
The Benefits of Electrolytes During Pregnancy
Because electrolytes help regulate fluid balance and pH levels as well as support nerve and muscle function, adding electrolytes to your water intake can also help support a healthy pregnancy. Pregnancy can cause fluid retention and increased blood volume, which can increase your need for electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
- Sodium helps to regulate fluid balance and blood pressure levels. Too much sodium, however, can lead to high blood pressure, so you’ll want to monitor your daily intake.
- Potassium helps prevent muscle cramps, supports healthy heart function, and helps your body maintain a balance of fluids and electrolytes needed for you and your baby. Consuming enough potassium during pregnancy may also help reduce the risk of preeclampsia, a potential pregnancy complication that can be dangerous for both mother and baby.
- Calcium helps with healthy bone and teeth development in the fetus, and getting enough calcium during pregnancy may reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure.
- Magnesium helps the baby develop proper muscle and nerve function, and can help prevent muscle cramps, preterm labor, and high blood pressure in the mother.
Because you may be taking prenatal vitamins or other supplements while pregnant, it’s always a good idea to talk to your obstetrician about your individual health needs.
How to Easily Get Electrolytes with Your Water
Being more mindful about getting the recommended amount of water daily is easier when you can look forward to a little flavor with that water! Ultima Replenisher hydration powders easily add an electrolyte boost to add flavor and nutrients to water without adding sugar or caffeine. We use organic stevia leaf as a sweetener and real fruit flavor extracts for a delicious taste.
You can try six of our delicious flavors in our trial sample of stickpacks or shop all of our electrolyte mix canisters and stickpacks. If you are someone who when not pregnant or nursing enjoys a cocktail, try our Coconut Piña Colada Mocktail mix or Peach Bellini—no sugar and certainly no alcohol are in these delightful mocktails. You can even mix them up and serve them over ice in a poco grande glass, martini glass, or champagne flute if you want.
Whatever you choose, we hope these tips motivate you to stay hydrated
