5 Superfoods That Build Immunity Against Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19)

Post By: Dr. Onye March 31, 2020 0 Comment(s) Coronavirus disease, COVID-19, Flatten the curve, Health blog, Healthy living blog, Immune boosters, Immune boosting foods, Superfoods that build immunity

As you head to the supermarket to stock up, it is vital that you select food items that would build your immunity against coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and other diseases. Apart from following the basic protective measures, it’s essential to stick to a healthy balanced diet that contains important vitamins and minerals.

ALSO READ: Coronavirus (COVID-19): These Tips Could Save Your Life

As researchers and scientists work to find a vaccine for the coronavirus, here are some superfoods that build immunity against the disease.

Low-Fat Yoghurt

Yoghurt gets the superfood reputation because of its probiotic activity. Probiotics are good bacteria that keep your gut healthy. They act as a line of defence for foods ingested and fights infections. Yoghurt is essential for immune health as it is also a good source of calcium and protein. Research has shown that yoghurt consumption is beneficial for the elderly when it comes to boosting immunity. As we know, elderly people are more at risk of coronavirus disease.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, lime and grapefruit, are strong immune boosters. These superfoods are excellent sources of Vitamin C, which helps protect the body from infections. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that is important for immune function. Vitamin C stimulates the production of white blood cells and also functions as an antioxidant. The body cannot make Vitamin C, so it must come from the foods you eat on a daily basis. Citrus fruits also contain dietary fibre that helps our metabolism.

Garlic and Ginger

The double Gs – Garlic and Ginger. These superfoods have been used for ages to boost and strengthen the immune system. Garlic has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties. Its antiviral property may be helpful in reducing the severity of colds, flu or COVID-19 infections. Allicin is the immune-boosting compound in garlic. It’s advisable to use garlic in its raw form and not its powder, to get maximum benefit.

Ginger contains antioxidant compounds that fight off bacterial and viral infections such as flu, chest infections and sore throat (Some of which are symptoms of COVID-19). Ginger also contains other nutrients such as iron, zinc, calcium. Just like garlic, skip the supplement and use the real thing.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potato is a cholesterol-free superfood that has many health benefits. It is rich in beta carotene and vitamin C. Beta carotene is a powerful antioxidant and a rich source of vitamin A. Sweet potato has immune-boosting and disease-preventing functions and can help build your immune system against coronavirus disease. Other sources of beta-carotene include; carrots and green leafy vegetables.

Water

Water is nature’s most underrated “superfood”. Water is of the utmost importance when building a strong immune system. It naturally eliminates toxins from the body, preventing a buildup. Water also fuels the regeneration of immune fighting cells.

Other superfoods worthy of mention are:

Almond nuts
Turmeric
Green vegetables
Red bell pepper
Watermelon

These superfoods would build your immunity against the disease, so also would preventive measures such as hand washing, sanitizing and avoiding contact with sick individuals go a long way in reducing your risk. Follow the guidelines and do your part to reduce the spread of the disease (COVID-19). Most importantly, stay safe ❤️

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Coronavirus (COVID-19): These Tips Could Save Your Life

Post By: Dr. Onye March 27, 2020 0 Comment(s) Coronavirus, Coronavirus disease, Coronavirus pandemic, Coronavirus preventive measures, Coronavirus tips, COVID-19, Flatten the curve, Health blog, Healthy living blog

I’m pretty sure we are all aware of the global pandemic going on right now, caused by a virus called Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected the world drastically and changed our general way of life.

With the number of coronavirus cases increasing, it’s up to us to flatten the curve. Below are several preventive measures and tips that could save your life.

Boost your immune system

Now, more than ever you need to strengthen your immunity. You stand a better chance in the fight against the pandemic and other infections if you have a healthy immune system. Immune-boosting foods includes; citrus fruits, garlic, ginger, turmeric, red bell peppers, etc. Citrus fruits contain Vitamin C which stimulates the production of white blood cells. White blood cells protect the body against infection. It doesn’t stop there. You also need to exercise, stay hydrated, reduce stress and get better sleep.

Wash your hand

To protect yourself from coronavirus and any other illness, it is important to wash your hands often. The CDC recommends washing your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water, especially after you have been in a public place, after blowing your nose, coughing, and before eating.

Use alcohol-based sanitizers

If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. The CDC recommends using hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol content. It’s the alcohol that is the virus killer. A hand sanitizer with a low alcohol content or no alcohol content at all is not as effective. You should cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.

Use 60% alcohol based hand sanitizer — Coronavirus (COVID-19): These Tips Could Save Your Life. Photo by Tai’s Captures on Unsplash

Avoid touching your face

Avoid touching your mouth, nose, ears, and eyes with unwashed hands. All it takes is just one touch. One touch and the virus (and other microorganisms) on your hand can slip into your body through the mucous membrane in your eyes, oral cavity, and nose. Also, try to limit hand-to-surface exposure. Clean and disinfect surfaces you touch on a daily basis.

ALSO READ: 8 Common Bad Habits You Need To Stop Immediately

Keep Calm

There is so much panic and fear in the air. We really need to keep calm, stop spreading false and misleading information. Protect the people who are most at risk such as the elderly and people with serious underlying medical conditions. Panic won’t do you any good.

Oh, and stay at home if you can.

Follow the guidelines and do your part to reduce the spread of the disease (COVID-19). Most importantly, stay safe ❤️.

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7 Ways to Make Your Mum Feel Special on Mother's Day

Post By: Dr. Onye March 20, 2020 0 Comment(s) Mothers day, Mothers day activities, Mothers day gift, Personalized gifts, Weekend getaway

Mother’s day 2020 is on Sunday, March 22nd. Circle this date on your calendar because this is a great time to celebrate and honor that special woman in your life, your Mother. Mother’s day isn’t all about the gifts. Don’t get me wrong, she would definitely appreciate a thoughtful present but the greatest gift of all is the gift of your time. Make this day special for her by spending quality time with her and making her feel pampered and appreciated. Go above and beyond what you would normally do, with these mother’s day activities.

For you, we’ve curated ways to make your mum feel special on Mother’s day. Enjoy!

Breakfast in bed

What better way to start the day than with a delicious and indulgent breakfast in bed. This is a sweet way to pamper your mum on Mother’s day. Let her wake up to her favorite breakfast goodies delivered straight to her bed while you go ahead and set up the other Mother’s day activities planned out.

A picnic in the park

Family Picnic — 7 Ways to Make Your Mum Feel Special on Mother’s Day. Photo by iStock

Spend some time in nature, away from the noisy and pricey restaurant.

Mum would definitely love spending some quiet time with her loving family, her favorite people, delicious food, surrounded by the beauty of nature. This would create a lasting memory and make her day a special one. Spice it up with some engaging family activities and games. Make sure she doesn’t prepare or pack any of the snacks or fruits, c’mon it’s her time off!

Game night

A family game night is a fun and entertaining way to have fun with the whole family. It is also something your mum would enjoy on Mother’s Day. Let your mum pick her favorite game for everyone to play, it’s her day. A family game night has so many benefits, which include strengthening family bonds.

Spa Treat

Give your mum the gift of a well-deserved massage, she would truly appreciate it.

Mothers spend a lot of time taking care of the family and they tend to forget themselves. On this special day, treat her to 60 (or more) minutes of solitude with a massage therapist. Let her get her hair done, and her nails did. Check out these spa and beauty salons. You can also join her and turn it into a fun spa day. She deserves it.

Lunch date

Give your mum a treat by having lunch with her at her favorite restaurant. You could opt for a morning brunch, elegant dinner or all hehe (after all, nothing is too much for mum, right?). You can also do this at the comfort of your home, but make sure she DOES NOT set the table or do the dishes, it’s her time off.

Plan a weekend getaway

No better day to be impulsive. Book a weekend trip for the two of you. These are exciting locations for a weekend getaway. If you didn’t plan ahead or it’s way above your budget, try a staycation. Make the weekend all about her. Plan on spending the weekend in a fun and exciting way in your city. Give your mum an amazing experience.

Watch a movie

Game night — 7 Ways to Make Your Mum Feel Special on Mother’s Day. Photo by Costint on Getty Images

So, after you’ve spent the day pampering mum, going on that date, why not curl up on the couch and relax with a good movie. Turn your living room into a semi movie theatre, pop some popcorn, pour her a glass then plop yourselves on the couch. She would love to spend the rest of the day unwinding with her favorite person(s) while crunching to her favorite snack.

After which she deserves a full night of uninterrupted sleep. The keyword is uninterrupted.

One thing that will make any of this even more special is to include a meaningful thank you message on a note, letting her know how you feel. Don’t forget that customized gift. Crezions gifts offer varieties of customized gift items.

There you have it. One or more of these activities would surely create a lasting memory for mum. If you enjoyed reading this, we have more for you here.

8 Common Bad Habits You Need To Stop Immediately

Post By: Dr. Onye January 26, 2020 0 Comment(s) Bad habits, Bad health habits, Common bad habits, Common unhealthy habits, Health blog, Healthy living blog, Nail biting, Skipping breakfast, Slouching, Unhealthy habits

There are a lot of bad habits we subconsciously make which negatively affect our health. We agree that nobody can be a health guru 100 percent of the time, so if you have a few bad habits, you are not alone. However, it’s important we start building good habits and breaking bad ones. Any positive lifestyle change can make a big difference in our health. After all, it’s a big step towards achieving those health goals you set for 2020. You may not even know what these unhealthy bad habits are. That’s why we have compiled a list of common bad habits we make every day.

Skipping Breakfast

8 Common Bad Habits You Need To Stop Immediately Photo by Julian Jagtenberg from Pexels

It’s understandable if you occasionally skip breakfast because you are in a haste, too busy or aren’t feeling hungry at that moment. The keyword is occasionally, which means you should not make it a habit. Skipping breakfast is a no-no for your health. The saying ‘Breakfast is the most important meal of the day’ is absolutely correct. When you skip breakfast, you are most likely to overeat later in the day. Make this a habit and watch those extra calories lead to weight gain.

Not getting enough sleep

Sleep is not for the weak. I repeat, sleep is not for the weak. Getting enough sleep is one of the best things you can do for your health. It plays an important role in staying healthy. Sleep deprivation leads to many health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, an impaired immune system, diabetes, fatigue, stroke, poor mental health, decreased concentration, and even depression. You also tend to be more productive, have a retentive memory and are focused for the rest of the day. Give your body the ZZZs it needs.

Using your phone in bed

If you surf the internet or play on your phone before you sleep, today it should come to an end. It is a major cause of sleep deprivation. Electronic gadgets such as phones and computers give off blue light. This light decreases your level of melatonin – a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle – and messes up your sleep. In bed, put your phones away and try reading a book or listening to music.

Nail Biting

Everything is wrong with biting your fingernails, everything. This can damage your teeth as well as your nail bed because germs are transferred from your mouth to your fingernails. You can get sick when you bite your fingernails, which carry germs into your mouth. Nail-biting is a subconscious response to stress. If you are having difficulty with quitting this bad habit, talk to a doctor.

Eating quickly

This is a very common bad habit. Why are you rushing your food? It’s YOUR food and no one else. So, take small bites, chew slowly and savor the taste of the food. Eating too fast leaves you less satisfied and makes you overeat later in the day. It can also lead to several health issues such as heart problems, acid reflux and bloating. Make an effort to stop rushing your food, you’d be glad you did.

Overusing Painkillers

Regular use of over-the-counter drugs and supplements can cause kidney damage. No matter what kind of drug you take, it would take a trip through your kidneys. When taken in excessive amounts, they lead to serious complications. Only take medications prescribed by your doctor and do not self medicate.

Slouching

Slouching is a very bad posture that can ruin your health. Most people are unaware of when they slouch. Slouching has a big impact on the rest of your body. It can alter your spine structure and cause neck and body pain. Slouching at your desk can also give a tension headache.

Going to bed without brushing your teeth

You should never go to bed without brushing your teeth. It’s really gross. The importance of brushing your teeth twice a day goes beyond fresh breath. It’s a vital part of dental hygiene. By not brushing your teeth at night, you end up with plaque buildup which causes tooth cavity, tooth decay, and gum disease. Brushing your teeth also reduces your desire to snack at night. Other bad habits worthy of mention are; Not drinking enough water, Smoking, Excess consumption of alcohol, Eating Junks, Living a sedentary lifestyle. Are there other common bad habits that are not on this list? Drop your comment in the comments box below. If you enjoyed reading this, we have more for you here. Check out some of our best articles on Health and Lifestyle and follow our feed on Instagram.

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10 Easy Ways to Lose Weight Without Exercise or Diet

Post By: Dr. Onye December 3, 2019 0 Comment(s) Easy Ways to Lose Weight Without Exercise or Diet, fibre-rich foods, Health, Health blog, high calorie foods, How to stop over eating, Losing weight without dieting, Losing weight without exercise, Portion control, Portion control tips, Skipping breakfast to lose weight, Weight loss tips

Diet plans can be challenging to stick to for a long period of time. It can also be hard to find the time to exercise. What if I told you losing weight doesn’t necessarily require breaking a sweat? No jokes. There are several tips that can help you consume fewer calories with minimal efforts.

Here are 10 easy ways to lose weight without exercise or diet. Implement these tips for a healthy lifestyle. Here you go!

Stay Hydrated

This has to be number one on this list. Water should be the first thing that goes into your body, every day. Having a glass of water before a meal helps you lose weight and eat less. Apart from it’s filling ability, it helps pinpoint your hunger level. Replace water with your regular sodas and experience a greater result.

So, set reminders on your phone or download a water reminder app that will help keep a count of the number of glasses of water you drink in a day.

Don’t Skip Breakfast

It is a common misconception that skipping breakfast causes weight loss. There is a reason why breakfast is described as the most important meal of the day. The reason being that it controls hunger long into the day. When you skip breakfast, your blood sugar level drops. You become extremely hungry and end up impulsively snack on unhealthy foods.

Use Smaller Serving Plates

Portion control is an easy way to lose weight without exercise. Use a smaller plate to trick yourself into eating less. A small plate makes your food portion look bigger by giving your brain the illusion that you are eating more than you actually are. Bigger plates, on the other hand, make you eat more.

Eat Fiber-Rich Foods

Foods rich in fiber help you feel fuller for a while, therefore reducing food intake. Here is how it works: Dietary fiber forms a gel that slows down digestion. Some examples of fiber-rich foods are Vegetables, Whole grains, Legumes, Fruits. Fiber-rich foods also increase nutrient absorption and prevent constipation.

You might want to think twice when discarding an orange fiber after juicing!

Food Diary

Writing down what you eat every day makes you aware of how much you’re eating, what you’re eating and why you are eating. Better still, download a food diary app.

Chew Slowly

Chewing your food slowly gives your brain enough time to process that you’ve had enough to eat. This helps curb overeating because you will tend to feel full even if you didn’t eat much. Enjoy your food, don’t rush.

Eat Without Electronic Distractions

Mindful eating is an excellent tool for weight management. Pay attention to what you are eating. This would help reduce food cravings and improve portion control. Eating while watching TV or using other electronic devices would make you lose track of how much you are actually eating.

Have you noticed how you can easily finish a big bowl of popcorn at the cinema in less than 15 mins?

Avoid Stress and Sleep well

Increased stress level and lack of sleep disrupt certain hormones that can increase your cravings for unhealthy foods. Also, the body burns calories when you’re asleep.

The Apple Test

Use this trick is to stop binge eating. Before snacking on high-calorie food, ask yourself; “Would I want to eat an apple now?” If the answer is no, you are not hungry but trying to eat out of boredom. If you love apples and this would probably not work for you, try it with any food you consider boring.

Enjoy A Cheat Day

I like to call it an “I earned it a day”. Sounds better, right? Once in a while, reward yourself with your favorite junk food. But do it in moderation. Rewarding yourself with a cheat day would help you stick to your weight loss plan.

There you have it. Very easy ways to lose weight without exercise or diet. We hope you found this helpful. If you did, drop a comment in the comment box below.

Did you enjoy reading this? We have more for you. Check out some of our best articles on Health and Lifestyle and follow our feed on Instagram.

myafrocaribbeanwedding

Her "Big baby" and His "Turtle". These 2 are so in

HBCU kinda love. Fun fact my f#iancé and I met at

Beautiful 👸🏾👸🏾👸🏾👰🏾👸🏾

🇭🇹🇯🇲💍 Issa Wifey to be. After 1 yea

🇭🇹 60 YEARS of #marriage. #Glamma and #Dappe

The easiest Yes! I’ve ever said. Leaving a littl

🇹🇹🇭🇹 Still can't get over this stunnin

Met at work in September 2021, became his #fiancé

Valentine came early and in full swing. Belle @ma

🇭🇹 “Love is a great master. It teaches us

Sheesh 🇳🇬🇯🇲 loading. January 7, 2023.

What an amazing moment this was. 🎊❤ Bride @m

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Life During Pregnancy + Tips to Survive Pregnancy Stress

Post By: Dr. Onye November 17, 2019 0 Comment(s) Black moms, Life of a pregnant woman, Maternity blog, Motherhood, Pregnancy, Pregnancy blog, pregnancy tips, Pregnant moms, Womens health

You are about to have a baby! Congratulations. Life during pregnancy is an exciting period for a woman. You are now responsible for the life of another human. During this new stage of your life, you’ll have a lot to think about and dream about. It’s very important that you look after yourself and communicate better with your partner. Talk about how you feel about being pregnant, your goals, starting a family, sexual needs and his thoughts on all these. This is what some black moms-to-be had to say on their journey to motherhood.

Life during pregnancy + Tips to survive pregnancy stress *Photo: @Jesusgang*

“And we’re off!!! Motherly instincts are kicking in. There’s so much love and passion when creating a child. It takes that same love and passion to raise one! I pray for guidance as I embark on this new journey. My Fall, Scorpio baby is here and I finally feel at peace!! October 24 2019 our princess was born! I could say so much but here we go….. Pregnancy, motherhood, Parenthood ! a beautiful thing. Our excitement is indescribable. I had a child with the man of my dreams! A man who loves me unconditionally, adores me, cares for me, and puts our relationship first! I love talking about my relationship and how excited we are to have a baby Girl! We picked out her name a few months in, and we made sure to talk to her everyday. But I can’t help but notice how people mention being parents as “life changing”, they say “your life will never be the same”, “being a mom changes you”, “it’s going to change your relationship”. Sometimes it’s positive but most times it seems they’d rather you pause on having babies.. lol. This is how I see it…… in life we make life changing decisions and sometimes those decisions are made for us. I can give examples of many things that can change your life, but so it is. We have to change, we must adopt to new circumstances, that is how God intended. Being a mom was already chosen for me by God and he decided now is my time! I see this new journey I’m embarking on as a blessing from God! A new found purpose along with all the others I embody. I am a powerhouse and being a mom will not only change my life forever but it will enhance it and fill it with wonders I could never imagine! Welcome home Baby A” – @Jesusgang

“My 25-week pregnancy update: This was by far the most challenging month because I was checked in at the hospital for a liver problem scare, failed my first gestational diabetes test and had to retake. 😓 But all in all, I learned to trust God! Super thankful for my husband this month so I had to add him into the bumpdate shot lol, Giving up my body to create two lives has been the best thing ever. For the rest of my life I will be able to look in the mirror and see the love I have for them. And, I don’t want this journey to stop until these marks are also reflected on my heart. 🥰 In the meantime, don’t call me a snack, call me a zebra cake. 🦓 😋😏#32weekspregnantwithtwins #8monthspregnant #twinmama” – @wandaanicole

“There is no greater gift than the gift of life…The one gift that can turn your worst situation to the best moment of your life. The one that gives you butterflies or maybe just a small kick. Never forget how precious life truly is.” – @penciledcelebrities

Pregnancy can have its perks, but it is also rough work because those 9 months are far from easy. Hormonal changes would play a huge role in your moods during and after pregnancy. It’s doesn’t stop at the cravings and fatigue, you will experience a gamut of emotions, ranging from happiness to frustration, fear, and anxiety. There’s nothing to worry about because we have compiled some pregnancy tips below on how to get through the next nine months with ease, as well as tips for first-time parents.

If you are dealing with:

Nausea – Increase vitamin B6 intake and eat high-protein legumes to ease nausea. Ginger and herbal teas also help.

Headaches and Exhaustion – This is common within the first trimester of pregnancy which is always the hardest, according to mothers. Unfortunately, for pregnant women, over-the-counter painkillers are restricted. So, you are not allowed to use them. Consult with your doctor for safe replacements. To help combat fatigue, get an adequate amount of rest, hydrate and go for a body massage, especially the neck and lower part of the head. Sleep helps supports a healthy pregnancy.

Sore breasts and nipples – Tender breasts are one of the first signs that a woman is pregnant. Invest in a soft comfortable bra or sports bra.

Swollen ankles – Walking to get the legs moving is good. When sitting, lift your feet up.

Eat a balanced diet and try gentle exercises like stretches.

Documenting your growing bump is one of the most memorable parts of being pregnant and we are loving these maternity pictures! Amidst the stress and hormonal changes, modern moms-to-be are really getting creative and showing off their growing bellies with the help of professional photographers.

Life During Pregnancy + Tips to Survive Pregnancy Stress 1 — Life During Pregnancy + Tips to Survive Pregnancy Stress – *Photo: Instagram /* @hair_chemistrymiami by @mua_ttt_tia @stanlophotography

Life During Pregnancy + Tips to Survive Pregnancy Stress 2 — Life During Pregnancy + Tips to Survive Pregnancy Stress – *Photo: Instagram /* @hair_chemistrymiami by @mua_ttt_tia @stanlophotography

Life During Pregnancy + Tips to Survive Pregnancy Stress 3 — Life During Pregnancy + Tips to Survive Pregnancy Stress – Black Pregnant Mothers *Photo: @Jesusgang*

Parenthood 7 Tips Every First-Time Black Parent Needs Photo by @michellemojicaphotography

Life During Pregnancy + Tips to Survive Pregnancy Stress - Black Mothers — Life During Pregnancy + Tips to Survive Pregnancy Stress – Black Pregnant Mothers *Photo: @Jesusgang*

Lone Wolf Image African American Photographer Florida

https://www.instagram.com/p/B3uhyn9Fx6_/?igshid=1qd23qpdrufex

How has the journey been so far as a mom or mom-to-be? Did you find these tips helpful? Share your experience with us in the comment section below.

Did you enjoy reading this? We have more for you. For baby shower inspiration from Trini and Bajan Queen’s Nikita Gibson’s Pink Gala Baby Shower Party and planning, check out these recommended baby shower vendors.

Parenthood: 7 Tips Every First-Time Parent Need

Post By: Dr. Onye November 4, 2019 0 Comment(s) First child, First time parents, New borns, New parents, New parents tips, Parenthood, Parenting tips, Tips and advice

Becoming a parent can be a bit overwhelming and nerve-wracking, especially for first-time parents. But hey, congratulations! You are doing a great job. There is no way you can predict what it’s going to be like being responsible for another human being. You better cherish those moments and enjoy them because newborn days are precious. There will be a point in your life when you will look back and miss this time.

We have compiled tips that will help even the most nervous first-time parents enjoy this moment of their life. Enjoy.

Take advice on the chin

Parenthood: 7 Tips every first-time parent needs — Parenthood: 7 Tips every first-time parent need *Photo: Pexels*

Suddenly, every single person you know including complete strangers would want to put in their two cents on what to do with your baby. Just smile, nod politely and do things exactly how you want to. Trust your instinct. Find out what works best for you and make your own decisions. Ask the questions you want answers to and ignore all unsolicited advice.

Go Skin-to-Skin While Feeding or Cradling Your Baby.

This is one way you can bond with your baby. Physical closeness can promote an emotional connection. Hold your baby against your own skin while feeding or cradling.

Developing a strong connection and bond with your baby is important for both mums and dads. This would affect your child’s psychological, mental and emotional health. Another way to develop this bond is by looking into your baby’s eyes while feeding.

Dads are not left out.

Bonding applies to both you and your partner. His voice, warmth, and touch are different from yours. Make sure your baby has ample time alone with dad. You can use this opportunity to have your ‘Me’ time.

Getting your ‘Me’ time

Look after yourself and make sure you still have fun! It’s might be tough, but try to set aside at least half an hour to do something you enjoy every day. You’d be glad you did. Take a walk, read a book, catch up on your favorite tv series, do anything. You will definitely feel rejuvenated.

Seriously, get more sleep

One of the ‘advice’ you might get from people is “Sleep when your baby sleeps”. It’s good advice though, but it’s not always possible. Get some rest. Look after yourself physically. Sleeping would help your body recover and enable you to have all the energy you need to meet your baby’s needs. Never underestimate the power of sleep deprivation.

Wash your hands frequently

It’s important to keep your hands clean and free of germs. Also, make sure visitors or anyone handling the baby, washes their hands. Babies’ immune systems aren’t fully developed, so they are more susceptible to infection. Keep your baby’s environment clean and safe.

Accept Help from Your Moms, Aunts, and Older sisters.

Accept all the help you can get. You need it and deserve it. Have moms, aunts, and older sisters help you out.

Are you a first-time parent? What challenges are you currently facing? Tell us in the comment section below. Did you enjoy reading this? We have more for you. Read our love stories and wedding posts for wedding inspirations.

Just had an event or just got married? Share your beautiful love story with us for a chance to get featured. Submit your love stories and send us all your media content.

5 Pregnancy tips to boost your fertility and improve your chances of conceiving

Trying to Conceive? Here are 5 Pregnancy tips to Boost Your Fertility

Post By: Dr. Onye September 15, 2019 0 Comment(s) dos to get pregnant, Fertility, Health, infertility tips, Maternity blog, Maternity health, Pregnancy, pregnancy health, pregnancy tips, sperm friendly lubricants, Tip and Tricks

Dine your way to a Healthy Pregnancy | Curb Caffeine and Alcohol intake | Find your fertile window | Maintain a healthy weight | Ditch the lube

You’ve been trying to conceive for several months and haven’t seen that positive “faint line” on the pregnancy stick. I bet you didn’t know there are certain dos and dont’s for women trying to get pregnant. Making a few lifestyle changes can boost your chances of being parents-to-be and also having a healthy pregnancy. I have put together 5 Pregnancy tips to Boost Your Fertility and here are some of those changes you should implement:

Dine your way to a healthy pregnancy

Trying to conceive? Here are 5 Pregnancy tips to boost your fertility – *Image: Unsplash*

Eating certain foods and avoiding others plays a vital role in improving the chances of pregnancy. Have the right mix of food on your plate. Opt for healthy fats, whole grains, plant proteins e.g Beans, Nuts, Seeds, and liven it up with fruits and vegetables.

Also, make sure to supplement your diet with certain nutrients like; Zinc, Folate, Iodine, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Iodine. They reduce the risk of birth defects and also prevent lengthened menstrual cycles. Lengthened menstrual cycle means less ovulation.

Pro-tip: Did you know that yogurt is a top fertility boosting food?

Curb Caffeine and Alcohol intake

If you’re trying to get pregnant, be a teetotaler. Alcohol alters estrogen levels. Estrogen is the chief pregnancy hormone. Also, limit your caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day (that’s about 1-2 cups or 12 ounces of coffee). Some studies have found that high caffeine intake affects fertility and also put women at higher risk of miscarriage.

Yet, another reason to quit smoking. Cigarette toxins decrease the number of sperm, damages a woman’s eggs, cause the ovaries to age, puts women at risk of a miscarriage. All these affects fertilization. So, If you and your partner indulge in excessive drinking and smoking, now’s the time to break this habit.

Find your fertile window

A woman’s fertile days are usually her days of ovulating (when ovaries release an egg) or a few days after. During this period, you should have sex regularly. A normal menstrual cycle lasts about 21-35 days. Ovulation period is usually 14 days after the last day of your last period and four or five days before. Ovulation day varies. It depends on the length of your cycle. You can use this Ovulation period calculator which gives approximate ovulation dates and fertile times.

Yes, it can get difficult and overwhelming, noting dates and grappling all the information you need to predict your fertile days. It’s highly recommended that you use a period and ovulation calendar or app. Take control of your reproductive health.

Maintain a healthy weight

Trying to conceive? Here are 5 tips to boost your fertility — Trying to conceive? Here are 5 Pregnancy tips to boost your fertility. Image; Pinterest

You have to ensure that you are neither overweight nor underweight. Maintaining a healthy weight keeps your menstrual cycle balanced. Here’s how:

* Extra pounds leads to an overproduction of certain hormones that disrupt ovulation. e.g Insulin.
* On the flip side, too little body fat leads to underproduction of hormones needed for ovulation.
* Use a body mass index (BMI) calculator and find out if you are a healthy weight. A ranking of 18.5 – 24.9 indicates that you are at a healthy weight for your height.

Ditch the lube

Ditch Non Sperm friendly Lubricants - 5 Pregnancy tips to boost your fertility and improve your chances of conceiving — Ditch Non Sperm friendly Lubricants – 5 Pregnancy tips to boost your fertility and improve your chances of conceiving

If you want to be parents-to-be, using the right lubricant is key. Wondering why? This is because some lubricants are not sperm-friendly. Non fertility-friendly lubes contains ingredients that can affect sperm motility (movement of sperm). Opt for these recommended sperm-friendly lubricants (UK) | sperm-friendly lubricants (US).