A number of studies conducted globally have found that the pregnant women who do not resist the resist the temptation of going along with the foot fashion and wear uncomfortable shoes, notably the high heel ones, are likely to face some kind of problem during this period.

Pregnancy results in hormonal changes and weight gain. The ovaries begin to release relaxin, a hormone which results in softening of muscles and ligaments. What happens when you wear high heels is that the body balance and posture alters and there is lot of strain on your back and knees. It results in pain in foot, legs and back and heightens the risk of falling down. And, falling down could be traumatic for mother and is definitely not good for baby in the womb. It can create pregnancy complications. So, the choice of right foot is of immense importance. There are very good chances of finding the right shoes which are quite trendy and fashionable and, at the same time, are comfortable and supportive of pregnancy.

Here are some of the tips on the selection of the best shoes in this time:

1. Say no to the flip flops and ballet bumps. Instead, wear well fitted, round toed and low heeled shoes. Heel shall not be any more than 3 centimeters. Similarly, the arch of the shoe shall support the feet arch.

2. Wear shoes which absorb the shock and prevent pain in the knees and the back. There shall, ideally, be proper cushioning in the shoe.

3. Do check the material from which the sole of shoe is made. It shall not be slippery at all. At the same time, it shall not be very heavy.

4. Some people would recommend ‘negative heel’ shoes in which the heel is a little lower than the other part of foot. But, it is better to judge on your own which shoe is able to balance the body weight better.

Pregnant women shall never ignore the importance of the right footwear. In the last six months or so of the pregnancy, the center of gravity of the body keeps on changing consequently increasing the chances of falling down. The right footwear is able to carry your weight, maintains body balance and absorbs the shock. It also helps to keep on massaging the feet to improve the blood circulation and prevent the occurrence of cramps. This is good pregnancy exercise. Some would even suggest that the stockings used shall be medicated so that foot hygiene is maintained in totality.

Healthy, nutritious food and a well balanced diet shall be incorporated into daily routine and shall not be limited to certain special times like pregnancy. But, you have to be a bit more conscious in the intake of right food which is nutritious and, at the same time, tasty to eat. The doctors, too, prescribe certain essential nutrient supplements to be taken along with the daily food depending on the regular test results. What is even more important is to know which foods shall be avoided during this phase? This article informs the expecting mothers and the caring family members on the foods that are not considered safe or healthy for the baby but are consumed quite lavishly by the adults.

1. Raw or improperly cooked food of animal origin: There are good chances that the improperly cooked food that you might be eating contains microscopic bacteria, parasites or viruses. The risky foods are unpasteurized eggs, raw oysters, clams and raw bakery products like dough and cookies.

2. Hot dogs, meats and unpasteurized dairy products: Hot dogs, salami, turkey, refrigerated meat spreads, smoked seafood and dairy products which are not pasteurized may contain dangerous bacteria, Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause pregnancy miscarriage, still birth and many other health problems. Experts suggest that the meats shall be reheated till they are steaming hot before consuming. It is also important that hands are properly washed during the handling of meats.

3. Seafood and fish: Those sea animals which are likely to have high mercury concentration in their bodies shall be avoided. These include swordfish, shark, mackerel and a few others. The high mercury concentration interferes with the development of brain and nervous system of the baby. It is also advised not to eat fish caught from the polluted water systems like lakes and rivers close to the industries.

4. Raw sprouts: Sprouts shall be cooked well before eating. These may contain bacteria in seeds which are not removed on normal washing.

5. Alcohol: Beer, Wine or spirits are a strict no during pregnancy. These are known to restrict the fetus development and can cause pregnancy complications.

6. Caffeine: whether it is your cup of coffee, tea, soft drink or any other beverage that contains caffeine, it is best avoided since it can result in miscarriage and low birth-weight.

It is also suggested that the expecting mothers receive a detailed chart of foods to consume and avoid. Oral briefings can also help considerably.