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by Dr. Crystal M. Newby, MD

How To Eat, Drink, And Be Merry For 2!

How To Eat, Drink And Be Merry For 2!

It's that most joyous time of year again, and this year it's particularly exciting, because you're expecting a little one! Just what is the trick to savoring the holidays while pregnant? The holiday season is stressful enough without the added fluctuating hormones and physical discomfort of pregnancy. You may not be able to enjoy a champagne toast at midnight on New Years Eve or have spiked eggnog on Christmas Day, but you should still celebrate your time with family and friends while awaiting the arrival of your little one. Here are some tips on how to eat, drink and be merry for the both of you throughout the holidays.

Mama Tip #1 - Make The Season About You

It will be awhile again before you can focus on yourself and your needs exclusively; relish in the time and indulge in some extra self-care, some extra treats, and even some pampering. Don’t feel bad about declining an invitation or saying no. Be self-indulgent right now, your body is growing a child after all! Parenthood is the most selfless act. Now is the time to start good self-care habits and make them stick. This is also a good time to consider your postpartum and post birth care plan.

Mama Tip #2 - Get Your Sleep!

Getting some much-needed sleep is not easy while pregnant. Extra nighttime trips to the bathroom, pregnancy heartburn, leg cramps and all other aches and pains can really affect your slumber. Use weekends, holidays and even mid-afternoons to catch up on some rest so you can arrive at your delivery date well rested and ready to meet the little one.

Mama Tip #3 - Get Some Additional Help

The holidays are a time for family after all - let them help! Your loved ones know the importance of you taking care of yourself right now, so let them take over some of the cleaning and other chores you have to do this time of year. Getting some assistance with shopping and wrapping gifts, doing household chores and even cooking and baking are simple ways family can help you during your pregnancy. You should be careful to not run yourself down. You need your energy for now, birth and the months to come. Do what you can to manage your stress, and let others do the rest. 

Mama Tip #4 - Commit To Keeping Healthy Habits

Although this time of year is known for its indulgences with food, drink and merrymaking, this is no excuse to let yourself go completely. Continue to eat healthy, exercise safely, and commit to keeping those healthy habits that will aid you in birth and recovery. Feel free to indulge in that extra glass of virgin eggnog and a big sugar cookie, just don't make these your dietary choices throughout the season!

Mama Tip #5 - Visit Your Spa For A Mama Makeover

It can be hard to reach those toes as you reach the end of your pregnancy, and let's not even talk about the extra aches and pains that come with being pregnant! Schedule a spa visit for a facial, a pedicure, or even a pregnancy massage to be able to look and feel your best at all times and for all occasions. If finances are tight, this is the perfect gift from a loved one. You deserve it!

Mama Tip #6 - Eat, Drink And Be Merry!

Moderation is key to enjoying all of those extra treats this time of year! Fill your snacks and meals with nutrient-dense foods. They will make you feel fuller for longer and help you with self-control in the season of extra sweet. Skip out on the spiked eggnog in favor of an alcohol-free version and toast in style while staying healthy. Some doctors recommend completely avoiding alcohol during pregnancy, while others saying a glass of wine occasionally is not harmful. Speak with your OB today for their recommendation. Make sure to watch your sugar intake with all of the extra sweets around this time of the year. Excess sugar can cause spikes in your blood sugar that may affect you and baby. A little bit extra during the holiday season is probably no cause for concern but Gestational Diabetes is a serious prenatal condition. Keep that delicate balance between sweet treats and healthy eating, and you'll find that you look and feel better as your due date approaches.

Mama Tip #7 - Savor Time With Family And Friends

The dynamics of your family are about to change drastically! Make sure to take the time to savor family time during this holiday season. Appreciate who is around and with you right now, and be grateful for the gift of loving family and friends. You can do this while still eagerly anticipating the little one who is about to bless your family and bring more love and vitality into your life than you ever imagined! Here's to making the most of the season during your pregnancy and beyond!

If you have any concerns about the upcoming holiday season, please contact Kansas City ObGyn to schedule an appointment at (913) 948-9636 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..


Dr. Crystal M. Newby, MD is a physician at Kansas City ObGyn. She received her medical degree from the University of Missouri - Kansas City School of Medicine. Dr. Newby married her fellow Kansas native high school sweetheart and they have 3 daughters.