Pregnancy is a magical time for many individuals. While it is a time to celebrate all your body is capable of, it is also a time for nurturing and self-care. This includes making healthy lifestyle choices like eating right and staying active. It also includes protecting yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays.
You do not want to expose yourself to potentially dangerous chemicals while pregnant. Unfortunately, many products designed to keep you safe from the sun put you in harm's way thanks to their chemical makeup. Luckily, other strategies for staying safe in the sun when pregnant. Here are five to get you started.
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Vitamin D Supplements
One of the biggest reasons people spend time in the sun is that exposure prompts natural vitamin D production. That is true. However, you don't want to risk your health in one area so it can be boosted in another.
Taking a natural vitamin D supplement is an excellent alternative. It can support healthy immune function and calcium absorption, which is critical to maintaining physical health while you are expecting. Always check with your doctor before taking any supplement while pregnant.
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Wearing Sunscreen Daily
For many people, sunscreen is a natural part of every day. Many available products combine powerful protection with soothing, natural ingredients to help you stay safe naturally. Remember, sunscreen is a crucial step in your skincare routine every day of the year, not just in the summer.
When shopping for a sunscreen product during pregnancy, check that it contains safe, tested, natural ingredients that provide an SPF of at least 30. You should apply protection at least 20 minutes before heading out into the sun and then reapply it every about every two hours. You may need additional protection if you are sweating excessively or in the water.
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Wearing A Hat & Sunglasses
Like most people, you probably don't think about your head being exposed to the sun. However, UV rays can wreak havoc with your hair and burn your scalp if you aren't careful. The easiest way to guard against this is to wear a hat. A wide-brimmed hat will shield your face, protecting that delicate skin and your eyes.
Speaking of eyes, sunglasses that provide full UVA and UVB protection are a must-have accessory during pregnancy. Not only will they help you feel more comfortable, but they can also help preserve long-term vision.
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Getting Shade
You may not think of the shade as a premier form of sun protection, but it is the only way to guarantee you stay safe from UV rays outdoors. Use a canopy, sunshade, or shelter when you are in one place for a while. An umbrella is an excellent strategy if you move; be sure that yours blocks UV light and rain.
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Drinking Lots of Liquids
Water is crucial to almost every aspect of the body's functioning. So, your entire body suffers if you become dehydrated. During pregnancy, your body needs enough fluid to support its functions and those of your developing baby. Plus, as your body changes, you may need more than usual to help keep cool in the sun. Combined, those can lead to a substantial increase in how much fluids you need each day.
There are many ways to stay safe in the sun throughout your pregnancy. Drinking plenty of water to keep hydrated, seeking shady spots to take a break, and wearing a hat and sunglasses to protect your head and face are excellent ideas. Choosing a safe sunscreen and vitamin D supplement can also be helpful.