Pregnancy Fatigue: Why it’s real & what to do

Pregnancy is an Endurance Sport. Did you know that a recent study found that Pregnancy is as metabolically taxing as an ultramarathon?! 😅

That means your pregnant body is working really hard!
With this constant effort fatigue can be common.

“Why SO tired?”

🥱We know that your blood volume increases in pregnancy, but let’s get nerdy for a second: your blood’s plasma volume increases more quickly than your red cell mass when you’re pregnant. This can cause a mild anemia that makes you feel tired!

🥱Secondly, your pregnant body changes how it uses and organizes fat stores; this change means that your blood sugar levels can drop rapidly, especially after movement or exercise, again making you fatigued!

🥱Lastly, your body has an increased demand for oxygen, and higher levels of progesterone increase your sensitivity to CO2, all resulting in increased breathlessness!

“So what’s a pregnant person to do to combat tiredness?”

💪🏽Rest! Your body is doing SO MUCH. Give yourself permission to rest, slow down, and build up your reserves to sustain this pregnancy. ❤️

💪🏽Consider what breaks or changes you can make to your pre-pregnancy routine. Enlist support from your friends and family if possible! 🫂

💪🏽Add in electrolytes to ensure you’re adequately hydrated!

💪🏽Having trouble sleeping? Try magnesium and/or chamomile tea in the evening. 😴

💪🏽Remember to refuel after exercise to prevent blood sugar drops! 🥑🍌

💪🏽 Amp up your iron rich foods! Hello protein 🐄

✨Pregnant Peeps… y’all SO strong!✨