Moms-to-be, watch what you do and eat this Diwali

BANGALORE: Suhani and Aniket Mishra, a young couple from Koramangala, are expecting their first baby early next year. With Diwali round the corner, the couple started shopping enthusiastically for the festival and also decided to paint the house. In the chaos, Suhani forgot to check with her gynaecologist about any precautions she must follow.
“My in-laws are coming to Bangalore for Diwali and I wanted to finish all household work before they arrived.I’ve developed dust allergy, which gave me flu,” said Suhani.
Doctors say moms-to-be mustn’t forget their health as the festive season sets in along with a flurry of activity. Cleaning and painting the house, eating calorie-rich food, entertaining guests and visiting friends can take a toll on expectant mothers, who are low on immunity.
Change in weather, overeating, fireworks and smoke can trigger health issues, they caution.
Dr Beena Jaysingh, senior consultant, obstetrician and gynaecologist, The Cradle, Koramangala, said: “A woman’s daily routine changes during pregnancy. It is important to keep the body hydrated. Drink at least 3-4 litres of water through the day. The season changes during Diwali, which can trigger viral infections like flu. Avoid visiting crowded areas and cover yourself well.”
“Smoke from fireworks and change in weather can lead to asthma and respiratory allergies. It is important to wash hands thoroughly so that bacteria are not transferred to the body,” said Dr Sirisha Reddy, gynaecologist, Columbia Asia Hospital, Hebbal.
Expectant mothers must watch their diet during festivals, said Dr Gayatri Karthik, consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, Manipal Hospital.
HOW TO BE HEALTHY
Have timely and nutritious food to stay active and healthy, and keep blood sugar level under control Eat small, frequent meals, watch portion size and avoid sugary drinks, snacks and sweets Avoid handling fireworks since reflexes are slow Keep away from cracker smoke Keep body hydrated to avoid getting rashes and dry skin due to change in weather Observe hygiene to reduce risk of seasonal flu and H1N1 virus.