Wondering why you’re feeling the heat more than usual? When you’re pregnant your body temperature generally sits a little higher than average, so when the mercury rises outside it can prove extremely unpleasant. In some cases, excessive heat can cause health concerns (dehydration, respiratory illness, chest pains etc).

In an effort to keep you ‘hot’ mamas from heating up even more, we have compiled some pretty ‘cool’ tips for you:

1) We know this one is probably obvious, but DRINK more water than usual.

Sometimes when we’re carrying extra weight on top of our bladder and are already having to go to the bathroom every hour – we often slow down on our fluid intake in an effort to minimise the number of times ‘we have to go’. But if you’re in the midst of summer and dealing with extreme heat, it’s important to ensure that you’re consuming an adequate amount of water. The general rule of thumb is to aim for 2 litres a day.

Struggle with water? Try jazzing up your drink bottle with fresh fruit, lemon, mint or by freezing some of your favourite herbal teas into ice-cubes (add three cubes to your drink!). A refreshing daily smoothie is also a great option (we’ve included our Executive Chef’s favourite recipe below).

2) Try and stay INDOORS during the hottest parts of the day as much as you can.

Particularly in air-conditioned spaces (extra  shopping dates can totally be justified to beat the heat, right? Well, that’s one excuse for your partner!). The more you can dodge the humidity and direct sunlight during peak heat times, the better.

3) EAT light, cold meals and snacks more regularly – rather than hot, heavier dishes.

Try lean proteins, cold meats, salads, fruit skewers, smoothies, hydrolyte or fresh fruit popsicles, mixed nuts/seeds, yoghurt/muesli cups, cold bircher muesli, raw vegetable and dip platters etc . One of the most popular dishes at Gold Coast Private Maternity is our fresh Beetroot + Feta Salad (yes, we’ve also included the recipe below!)

4) Keep a cool wash CLOTH and/or SPRAY BOTTLE filled with water close by.

Place a wash cloth on the back of your neck, on your forehead, even on the soles of your feet periodically throughout the day. If you’re outside, keep a spray bottle close by and cool down with a few sprays to your face, back of your knees and neck. (If your work colleagues stare at you strangely, remember to tell them that you’re one ‘hot’ mama and give them a little spray for good measure).

5) Opt for light, loose CLOTHING.

We know that your wardrobe is already being cursed daily (how many times have you yelled out, I have nothing to wear, while pregnant?! Stop smiling, we know it’s an excessive number!) While your favourite frocks might not fit you at the moment, keep in mind that loose, light-weight clothing, in a light coloured cotton, can assist your body adjust to the heat. (By the way, Moo Moo’s are totally in, work it Mama!)

6) Take a DIP!

Not only does swimming help cool you down, it can assist in taking the extra weight and pressure off your sciatic nerve as well as your hips/pelvis, knees and feet. Immerse yourself in cool water and enjoy the sensation of floating. If you’re still enjoying exercise, a deep water running class at your local pool or just doing a few laps is a great option during pregnancy.

As always, if you’re experiencing any concerns during your pregnancy, please phone the Gold Coast Private Maternity Care Centre directly on 5530 0732.

Stay cool,

Gold Coast Private Maternity

 

GOLD COAST PRIVATE EXECUTIVE CHEF’S FAVOURITE REFRESHING SMOOTHIE

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This smoothie is based on coconut water, which boasts natural electrolytes – perfect for hydrating on those hot days!

Recipe

Serves 1

  • 1 x small frozen banana
  • 1 x handful spinach leaves
  • 1 x thumbnail of fresh ginger
  • 4 x fresh mint leaves
  • 1 x cup of ice
  • 2 x cups cold coconut water

Blend and serve.

 

GOLD COAST PRIVATE HOSPITAL’S POPULAR ‘BEETROOT & FETA SALAD’

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Recipe

Serves 1

Salad ingredients:

  • 1 x cup baby spinach leaves
  • 100g x pickled baby beetroot
  • 1 x mandarin
  • 10g x spanish onion
  • 30g x granny smith apple
  • 50g x danish feta
  • 20g x walnuts

Place spinach leaves in bottom of bowl. Layer with baby beetroot, mandarin segments, finely diced onion and crumbled feta. Garnish with a stack of julienned apple and sprinkle with walnuts. Drizzle the dressing over top, just before serving.

RED WINE VINEGAR dressing:

  • 2 tbs red wine vinegar
  • 1tsp dijon mustard
  • 1tsp tomato paste
  • 1tsp spanish onion
  • 1/2 clove garlic
  • 200ml olive oil

Season with fresh herbs (thyme or oregano)

Blend all ingredients and serve over salad