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Alcohol intake is another precaution pregnant women should be aware of. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can cause mental retardation, heart defects, fetal alcohol syndrome, miscarriage, low birth weight, still birth, and many other problems. While some experts say that 1 or 2 alcohol units a week (1 beer, 1 glass of wine, or 1 shot) is okay, most still say that no amount of alcohol is safe. Alcohol crosses easily into the placenta, so if you drink it so does the baby.
Caffeine is another substance that should be limited during pregnancy. Unlike alcohol women do not have to completely give it up but they should be aware of their daily intake. Caffeine can cause birth defects, miscarriages, preterm delivery and reduced fertility. Most studies say that consuming between 150mg and 300mg daily is safe. Any amount above 300 mg becomes risky.
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Women should also watch their seafood consumption. Although fish is a healthy food for adults, the mercury found in fish can be harmful to a growing baby. Mercury can cause defects in the brain and nervous system. While not all fish have high levels of mercury it is important to check before eating it. The American Pregnancy Association website (www.americanpregnancy.org) has a nice list of fish and how much of each you can have per pregnancy.
Lastly, exercise is an important part of pregnancy. Exercise should be a part of your daily routine. Many exercises are still safe even when you are pregnant. Walking and swimming are often good choices. Lifting weights should be done with caution. Never lift anything above your head or use too much weight. Lifting weights should only be used to maintain tone. Never exercise until you are breathless as this is a
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sign that your baby can not get enough oxygen. Avoid any activities that involve contact or a risk of falling. Daily exercise helps ensure that you are gaining the proper amount of weight during pregnancy, which is suggested to be about 25 to 35 pounds.
By following these guidelines, talking to your doctor, and listening to your body you can help you and your baby enjoy a healthy pregnancy.
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8120 Parallel Parkway
Kansas City, KS 66109
(913) 334-1660
6238 N. Chatham Road
Kansas City, MO 64151
(816) 746-1475
1015 N.E. Rice Road
Lee's Summit, MO 64086
(816) 525-1479
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13600 S. Blackbob
Olathe, KS 66062
(913) 782-2039
2724 W 53rd St
Fairway, KS 66205
913-236-4983
6900 W. 135th Street
Overland Park, KS 66223
(913) 814 WELL (9355)
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Sprint Campus
6450 Sprint Parkway
Overland Park, KS 66251
(913) 315-8646
Merriam Town Center
5800 Antioch Rd.
Merriam, KS 66202
(913) 831-4140
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