To support your baby’s development, it’s important to take supplements, however looking after your own health is just as essential as a mother’s health has a direct impact on the health of her growing baby. So, how can expecting mothers look after their health and well-being during their pregnancy?
Enter probiotics. In humans there are many strains of two main species of friendly bacteria, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Probiotics and prebiotics both help those friendly bacteria but in different ways. Probiotics are live bacteria that can be found in yogurt and other fermented foods, whereas Prebiotics are a special form of dietary fibre that nourishes the good bacteria that everyone already has in their gut.
Our gut microbiota is made up of over 10 trillion bacteria, fungi, and other organisms. Our gut health had implications beyond simply health digestion- the state of our gut health can also regulate our mood. Whilst we only really think about bacteria when we’re fighting off an infection, the majority of the bacteria in our bodies is extremely beneficial to support our physical and mental health, immunity, and more.
How Do Probiotics Support the Body During Pregnancy?
Probiotics support to rebalance the microbiome by increasing the number of friendly bacteria. Once there in the gut, they carry out a variety of responsibilities to support many aspects of health such as digestion, gas, bloating, and general immunity. A mother’s microbiome plays an important role in both hers and her baby’s health, when a baby passes through the birthing cancel, they are exposed to thousands of microbes. Hence, it’s beneficial for a mother to have lots of good bacteria to transfer to her new-born.
Are There Benefits of Probiotics During Pregnancy?
Research on the benefit of probiotics is still growing, but there is supportive data that probiotics help in the following areas:
- Vaginal health
- Mental wellbeing
- General immunity
- Gestational diabetes
- IBS and bloating
- Constipation
- Morning sickness
Is It Safe To Take Probiotics During Pregnancy?
Probiotics are usually considered safe during pregnancy except one Saccharomyces boulardii, that is lacking in clinical research in pregnant women. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your provider before taking probiotics or changing your diet during pregnancy.
How To Strengthen Your Gut Health?
If you decide not to take a probiotic (which is absolutely fine) there are several ways you can strengthen your gut health:
Food
There are various foods that are naturally rich in live and active microorganisms. Most of the foods listed below are safe, however please check with your GP if you have any concerns, and avoid all unpasteurized dairy products during pregnancy. A few options you can include in your diet:
- Fermented Foods: Sauerkraut and Kimchi
- Miso (Fermented Soybean Paste)
- Aged Hard Cheese: Cheddar and Parmesan
- Tempeh (Fermented Soy Product)
Manage Your Stress Levels
High levels of stress is taxing on your whole body including your gut. Manage your stress levels with meditation, exercise, spending time with friends or family, laughing, or yoga.
Sufficient Sleep
There is adequate research that tells us that lack of sleep can alter the composition of your gut microbiome because it can't do its job efficiently; try and aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.
Think Diversity
Instead of filling your plate with good bacteria (as compared to bad bacteria) eat a wide range of plant based foods. Try to aim for 30 different plant based foods such as nuts, seeds, whole-grains, legumes, fruits and vegetables per week. Aim to get something from all those food group rather than fixating on eating from one category of foods.
Ultimately every pregnancy is unique, and if you decide to make changes to your diet it’s best to consult your doctor first and make the changes that make you feel good inside and out!
References
- Elias J et al., "Are probiotics safe for use during pregnancy and lactation?," Can Fam Physician, pp. 57 (3): 299-301, 2011.
- Dr Kate Stephens PhD Food and Microbial Sciences; Gut Microbiology (University of Reading), Kerry Beeson BSc (Nut. Med.) Nutritional Therapist, & Beverley Richards DipION Nutritional Therapist. (n.d.). Probiotics for pregnancy. Retrieved May 06, 2021, from https://www.optibacprobiotics.com/learning-lab/in-depth/womens-health/probiotics-for-pregnancy
- Image credit: https://globalnews.ca/news/3995763/probiotics-preterm-birth-preeclampsia/
Maneka Grover grew up in Kobe, Japan and graduated with a BA in Sociology from the University of Nottingham. In 2019 she decided to pursue her passion in health and wellness and is now a full-time Health Coach certified through The Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York. As a supportive mentor she works with individuals to help them understand how to fuel their bodies, and become the healthiest, happiest versions of themselves. She uses her knowledge for nutrition to support her clients develop sustainable healthy behaviours, attitudes, and habits through goal-setting strategies and accountability.
Maneka helps people to improve their health and achieve their wellness goals using a multi-faceted approach that considers each individual’s unique biology, history, environment, and lifestyle. She emphasises health beyond the plate with a deep understanding of everyone's unique lifestyle, emotions, and physical needs.
Maneka is passionate about helping her clients eat intuitively by listening to their body and end the trend of dieting for good. Maneka believes in the philosophy of nourishing a positive relationship with food, as healthy eating is simple and possible if you trust your body. Maneka provides one-on-one coaching to individuals based anywhere in the world. She also spends time trying to debunk nutrition myths on Instagram (@manekacgrover), while placing a strong emphasis on the harmful effects of diet culture.
Connect with her at www.manekacgrover.com and manekacgrover@gmail.com
Disclaimer
Please always check with your healthcare professional before making any changes to your lifestyle so as to ensure the safety of you and your baby.
Mamatoto World Ltd. has reached out to specialists in their fields – to provide the articles / blogs featured on our website, social media and advertising. The information has been provided ‘as is’ by all our contributors and therefore Mamatoto World Ltd. does not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, legality, or reliability of the information provided.
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