Pregnancy & the Cardiac Diet

A woman who stays healthy during her pregnancy will keep both herself and her baby healthy. Following a cardiac diet, which consists of eating a low-fat and low-sodium diet and participating in regular cardiac exercises, will keep the heart healthy and the woman in shape during her pregnancy and afterward. Regularly doing cardiac exercises and eating heart-healthy foods also can help prevent heart disease in pregnancy and may even result in an easier pregnancy and birth.

Exercises

Walking is the best cardiac exercise for an expectant mother---it's an effective work out and easy for the woman at most any point during the pregnancy. If possible, women also might try swimming, dancing and biking; kick boxing and other aerobics also are helpful at early stages of pregnancy. Any exercises should not be too extreme, however, because pregnant women should reach between 60 and 80 percent of their maximum heart rate.

Foods

Many "healthy" foods are acceptable on a cardiac diet. Foods like whole grains, fruits, dairy, lean meats, vegetables and peanut butter are foods that keep the heart healthy. Those on a cardiac diet should avoid salt, butter, fried foods, sweets, sodas and other fatty and high-carb foods.

Lifestyle

Aside from being pregnant and experiencing all that comes with it, following a cardiac diet can be a different way of life. Those who follow a cardiac diet must lead a low- to no-stress life, visit the doctor regularly for blood pressure checks and not smoke, which alone could harm the unborn baby.

Time Frame

For a cardiac diet to be effective during a pregnancy, you must follow it for most or all of the pregnancy, especially during the later stages. As with any diet and lifestyle, straying away once in a while won't completely halt the diet, but you must stick to it as closely as possible.

Results

If followed correctly, the cardiac diet will keep your heart and baby's heart healthy by reducing fatty buildup around the heart. It also will keep dieters lean and in shape to prepare for the birth and keep up with the increase in activity following the birth.