Preventing pregnancy stretch marks is impossible, or so many will tell you. In truth, some people are more genetically predisposed to develop stretch marks than others. However, there are several strategies you can undertake to help prevent stretch marks (and these same strategies hold true for others at risk for stretch marks – such as adolescents or body builders.)
As with so many things, when it comes to stretch marks, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure (because, short of cosmetic surgery, stretch marks won’t entirely disappear only fade with time.) So here are the steps you can follow to give yourself an excellent chance of avoiding stretch marks entirely:
To do:
1. EAT a very healthy diet to nourish your skin (and your baby) from the inside, out. Take your prenatal vitamins and eat the right amount of calories from healthy foods which provide plenty of calcium, protein, whole grains, and vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables.
2. DRINK eight or more glasses of water and/or other fluids daily to hydrate your skin and maintain elasticity.
3. Follow guidelines for GRADUAL WEIGHT GAIN, in the recommended amount (about 25-35 pounds if you're a healthy weight slightly more if you're underweight or expecting twins slightly less if you're overweight.)
4. Moisturize your breasts, belly, thighs and anywhere else you think you might get stretch marks at least morning and night. Good moisturizers (such as natural oils and butters combined with vitamin-rich herbs) really can help keep skin elastic, especially when you choose a high quality, natural product that is easily absorbed and truly nourishes your skin from the outside, in. Specialty products formulated specifically for stretch mark prevention can be very effective – just read the ingredient list carefully to be sure the product is safe for use during pregnancy.
5. Continue this entire regimen (healthy eating, plenty of fluids, gradual weight gain and loss, and moisturizing with a high quality product) after you deliver until you're back to your target weight -- rapid weight loss can also result in stretch marks!
Keep in mind:
· Your moisturizer should be safe and natural, for your health and your baby's. Try moisturizers like those by Blooming Body at www.bloomingbody.com . To make your own pregnancy stretch mark cream try combining cocoa butter, olive oil, and vitamin E capsules (just squeeze the contents of the capsule into the other ingredients, mix and apply!)
· Remember to read labels carefully. Some stretch mark products are not intended for use while pregnant or nursing, and will say so on the labels. One product that is safe to use is Belly Bliss (http://www.bloomingbody.com/pics/bellybliss.html)
Good luck and best wishes on a healthy pregnancy, a safe delivery, and a healthy baby!
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
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