Water is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. Think of water as the transportation system in your body that delivers nutrients to your baby through your blood. Water also helps prevent bladder infections, which are common during pregnancy.
When you drink enough water, your urine will be more diluted, reducing the risk of infection. Why do pregnant women need to drink more water? Water can also improve constipation and help prevent hemorrhoids. Although it may seem counterintuitive, the more water you drink during pregnancy, the less water your body retains. Additionally, drinking enough water can prevent dehydration, which is particularly important in the third trimester as dehydration can cause contractions and lead to preterm labor.
How much water is enough? You should aim to drink at least 6-8 cups of 8 ounces of water per day (48-64 ounces in total, 1 ounce equals 28.35 grams). Additionally, for every hour of light exercise, drink an extra cup of 8 ounces of water.
Fruit juices can also contribute to your fluid intake, but keep in mind that they can also provide extra calories. Caffeinated beverages like coffee, cola, and tea should not be counted towards your fluid intake as they are diuretics and can increase urine production, causing you to lose water. If you simply dislike the taste of water, try adding a slice of lemon or lime to it or adding a bit of juice to improve the taste. If you're unsure of how much water to drink each day, you can fill a 64-ounce water bottle and aim to finish it by the end of the day.
