Pregnancy can be an incredible journey, but it comes with its fair share of challenges, including the risk of complications like Gestational Hypertension (GH) and Pre-eclampsia (PE). These conditions not only impact the mother but can also affect the baby's health, leading to issues such as preterm birth or growth restrictions. The good news? Exercise is a simple, accessible, and highly effective tool that can help reduce these risks.

In this episode of "Talking Healthspan," we explore how moderate-intensity exercise can significantly lower the risk of GH by 39% and PE by 41%. We'll break down the science behind these numbers and discuss how regular physical activity can be transformative for both maternal and fetal health. 🏃‍♀️🤰

We discuss:

• What are GH and PE? Understanding these pregnancy complications and their risks.
• How Exercise Helps: From improved vascular health to reduced inflammation and enhanced placental function, learn about the different ways exercise benefits your body during pregnancy. 🌿🩺
• How Much Exercise? We recommend 20 minutes a day of activities like walking, swimming, or cycling—enough to add up to 600 MET-minutes per week. 🚶‍♀️🏊‍♀️
• Is Exercise Safe? For most pregnancies without contraindications, moderate exercise is completely safe and has no increased risk of adverse outcomes, making it one of the most effective tools for a healthy pregnancy. 🌟

Whether you're expecting, planning for pregnancy, or supporting a loved one, this episode is packed with practical advice and insights from the latest research to help you feel empowered and informed. We also share real-life tips for making exercise a sustainable part of your pregnancy journey.

Tune in and take a step towards a healthier pregnancy

Connect with Us: Have questions or personal experiences with staying active during pregnancy? We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts and join the conversation. 💬💕

Recommended reading:

Prenatal exercise for the prevention of gestational diabetes mellitus and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/52/21/1367.long