Best liquids to drink during pregnancy

Proper hydration is extremely important when you are pregnant, for your baby's health and your own. Dehydration can contribute to a whole host of pregnancy complications, and then there are those complications that are likely to make you dehydrated. Morning sickness, diarrhea, constipation, headaches, fatigue, and water retention are all linked to dehydration in some way. So, what are the best liquids to drink during your pregnancy?

Water

For hydration, nothing beats safe, "ordinary" water whether it is bottled of from the tap (if you live in an area with safe tap water of course). All pregnant women should drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and more if you live with hot, humid weather. You can enjoy your water the way it is, or spice it up with a squeeze of lemon juice. Avoid the temptation to drink soda or even flavored waters too much, because they either don't help you to get hydrated, or contain artificial sweeteners (some of which are dangerous during pregnancy) or lots of sugar.

Herbal teas

Herbal teas are made up largely of water, and count as "clear fluids". Unlike ordinary tea or coffee, herbal teas normally don't contain caffeine, which promotes dehydration. Some herbal teas are excellent for pregnant women. Red raspberry leaf tea tones the uterus and is even said to combat morning sickness in the first trimester. Nettle leaf tea is full of vitamins and minerals, including lots of iron, and can be used to prevent or treat iron deficiency anemia.

Fruit and vegetable juices

Fruit and vegetable juices should not be used as a means to hydrate. They can, however, help expectant mothers and anyone else get a quick boost of vitamins, basic carbs, and your blood sugar levels! Green smoothies, and fresh, home-made juices are best because they don't contain artificial sweeteners or preservatives.