Pregnancy During the Christmas Holiday Season

Eating during the Christmas holiday season is challenging for me when I am pregnant. I know that I need to keep my weight gain under control and I know that there are some foods and drinks that I can't have-even though they are some of my favorite holiday treats. However, for the good of my unborn baby, I stick to a healthy eating plan and enjoy foods and drinks that may not be safe for my baby.

Eggnog

I love eggnog (without alcohol) but it isn't safe for pregnant women because it may contain raw eggs. Instead of drinking eggnog, I drink milk with a little vanilla extract (be sure it is the alcohol free kind). It isn't nearly as creamy as eggnog, but the flavor is good. If you like your foods very sweet, add a little sugar to the mixture. Cinnamon is also a nice touch, as is nutmeg.

Desserts

Sweets are my absolute downfall. Around the holidays, it seems everyone I know has a full spread of luscious desserts. Instead of going hog wild and eating everything I see, I look over all the desserts and choose one or two that I want to try-usually fudge and pecan pie. I then get a small serving of each choice. If I have already had too many sweets for the day, I make a healthy version of chocolate cheesecake. I mix 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder, 1 tablespoon of sugar and ¼ teaspoon of vanilla extract into 8 oz of ricotta cheese. You can use low-fat vanilla pudding, but leave out the vanilla extract if you do this. If you like graham crackers, you can spread this onto a few graham crackers for a crust-like mock cheesecake.

Smoked Meats

Smoked meats, such as smoked salmon, aren't safe for a pregnant woman. There is a chance that theses meats have been contaminated with bacteria or improperly cooked and/or stored. Instead, stick to ham, turkey, beef and other well cooked meats. If I am not sure about the meats offered at a holiday function, I stick to eating the vegetables, fruits and breads that are offered.

Exercise

Exercise is the last piece of the puzzle during the holiday season to keep my weight under control. Even when it snows, I still find ways to stay active. I walk up and down the stairs at home. I also do prenatal yoga and workout on an exercise ball.

Conclusion

During the holiday season, it is possible to keep your weight under control-even if you are pregnant.