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Support for Nausea and Vomiting of Pregnancy
Pregnancy nausea and vomiting can be one of the most isolating and debilitating experiences of your life. Unlike many other medical conditions, N/V can make it difficult or impossible to participate in normal daily activities that connect us with others – sharing meals, socializing, working, or even just leaving the house. Many people find themselves…
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Protecting Yourself in Pregnancy from Workplace Chemical Exposures
Workplace chemical exposures can pose serious health risks, especially during pregnancy. Whether you work in a salon, medical facility, construction site, or industrial setting, understanding your rights and taking proper precautions is essential for protecting your health. High-Risk Occupations Some work environments have higher risks of chemical exposure: Beauty salons (solvents, phthalates) Healthcare settings (cleaning…
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Home Renovation During Pregnancy: Reducing Toxic Exposures
The Science Renovation activities release multiple chemicals of concern: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from paints and finishes Formaldehyde from pressed wood products Lead dust from pre-1978 homes Asbestos in older buildings Construction dust containing multiple contaminants Research published in Environmental Health Perspectives shows that renovation activities significantly increase exposure to chemicals that can cross the…
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Reducing Toxic Exposures During Pregnancy: a Science-Based Guide
Why This Matters During pregnancy, your developing baby is particularly vulnerable to environmental chemicals. Research shows that many toxins can cross the placenta, and in some cases, like with mercury, can actually accumulate in higher concentrations in the fetus than in the pregnant person’s body. Let’s break down the major areas of concern and the…
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Deep Dive: Coffee, Tea, and Caffeine in Pregnancy
For many, caffeine is part of everyday life—whether it’s a morning coffee, an afternoon tea, or the occasional energy drink. But during pregnancy, caffeine becomes a common source of questions and confusion. How much is safe? Does decaf count? What about green tea? This guide brings together clear, evidence-based recommendations from the FDA, ACOG, and…
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Deep Dive: Fruit & Vegetable Safety for Pregnancy
Fruits and vegetables are some of the best foods you can eat during pregnancy. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that support your health and your baby’s development. But you may have heard about food safety concerns with certain produce, and it can be confusing to know what’s actually worth worrying about. The…
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Deep Dive: Seafood Safety for Pregnancy
Fish is one of the most nutritious foods you can eat while pregnant. It’s packed with protein, healthy fats (including DHA for your baby’s brain development), and other essential nutrients. But guidance can be confusing: What’s safe? What’s not? This comprehensive guide brings together evidence-based recommendations from the FDA, USDA, CDC, and ACOG, so you…
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Deep Dive: Meat Safety for Pregnancy
The advice to avoid undercooked meat and cold deli meat in pregnancy sounds simple—until you start thinking about the real-life meals you actually eat. What about chicken salad from the deli? Can you eat leftover chicken breast from last night’s dinner? Is a prepared salad with chicken from the grocery store okay? These are the…
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Deep Dive: Dairy Safety for Pregnancy
Dairy is full of nutrients your body needs in pregnancy—but unpasteurized dairy can carry Listeria, a bacteria that raises the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and severe newborn infection. Here’s how to keep it safe and digestible: Safe Dairy (when made with pasteurized milk) Milk & Cream: Cow’s milk, goat’s milk, plant-based milks (oat, almond, soy,…
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Food and Drink Safety in Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
When you’re pregnant, the world of food safety can feel overwhelming. Suddenly, there are new rules, warnings, and questions about things you may have never thought twice about before. Can I eat leftovers? What about sushi? Is this cheese safe? The good news is, with a few simple adjustments, you can still enjoy a wide…