Sudden and excessive weight gain increases the chances of stretch marks. Therefore, increase weight as per doctor’s advice and control it gradually. Massaging the stomach and other parts of the body with light hands increases blood flow.
Stretch marks are a normal process during pregnancy, because during this period, rapid changes occur in the body of women. However, after the birth of a child, women become extremely worried due to stretch marks, so why not pay attention to it during pregnancy. Yes, if some things are kept in mind, you can reduce the chances of stretch marks during pregnancy (How to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy).
Dr. Ruby Sehra, Principal Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shri Balaji Action Medical Institute Delhi has given some important tips to reduce the chances of stretch marks during pregnancy. So let us know, how to reduce stretch marks safely during pregnancy (How to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy).
Can stretch marks be prevented during pregnancy?
According to Dr. Ruby Sehra, “First of all, it is very important to keep the body hydrated from inside. Drinking enough water keeps the skin moisturized, which reduces the chances of stretch marks. Moisturize your skin well every day, especially the skin of the abdomen, breasts, thighs and hips. This gives flexibility to the skin.”
“You can also use olive oil, coconut oil or aloe vera gel to moisturize. Apart from this, take diet rich in protein, vitamin C, E and zinc. These strengthen the skin and prevent it from breaking during stretching.”
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“Sudden and excessive weight gain increases the chances of stretch marks. Therefore, increase weight as per doctor’s advice and control it gradually. Massaging the stomach and other parts of the body with light hands increases blood flow, which helps in keeping the skin healthy. Avoid bathing with very hot water. “This can cause dry skin, which can increase the risk of stretch marks forming.”
Note: Formation of stretch marks also depends on hormonal changes and genes. These cannot be completely prevented but stretch marks can be controlled with all these measures.
If you want to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy, then keep these nutrients in mind (Nutrients to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy)
1 Increase the amount of Vitamin C:
Collagen helps keep your skin flexible and firm. It reduces wrinkles and can prevent stretch marks. Foods rich in vitamin C can help boost the production of collagen in your skin. Include citrus fruits, broccoli, chilli, berries and potatoes in your diet.
2 Vitamin D :
According to a study, maintaining healthy levels of vitamin D can reduce the risk of stretch marks during pregnancy. The best way to get vitamin D is to spend time in the sun. During pregnancy, spend some time in the sun at 10 am.
However, it is important to exercise extreme caution when exposed to direct sunlight, especially if you are pregnant. Your skin becomes more sensitive during pregnancy. Therefore, take care of safety before going out in sunlight. Apart from spending some time in sunlight, you can include vitamin D rich foods like cereals, milk or dairy products like curd in your diet.
3 Zinc:
Zinc is an important nutrient for healthy skin. It helps in healing wounds and reduces inflammation. Lack of zinc in the body can lead to stretch marks, so consuming zinc-rich foods like nuts, grains, whole grains and fish will help you maintain healthy skin. Before including anything new in the diet, definitely consult a doctor.
4 Protein :
Collagen is a protein that helps keep your skin flexible. Thus protein is known to be an important nutrient to prevent stretch marks during pregnancy. Lack of protein in the body can inhibit collagen production, increasing the risk of stretch marks. Increase your daily protein intake by including eggs, fish, meat, cheese, milk and dairy products like curd.
How to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy
1. Focus on weight management
Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most effective ways to avoid stretch marks during pregnancy. When your skin stretches rapidly due to weight gain during pregnancy, stretch marks may develop. Although your body changes in many ways during pregnancy, you can slow down this process by controlling your weight.
Drinking adequate amount of water keeps your skin hydrated and soft. Hydrated skin is less likely to develop stretch marks than dry, rough skin. You should consult your doctor about the amount of water your body should consume during pregnancy.
2. Take care of nutrients
During pregnancy, both mother and child need a balanced diet, especially for the healthy development of the child. At the same time, lack of nutrition in women increases the risk of getting stretch marks. To avoid stretch marks during pregnancy, take a diet rich in vitamins C and D, zinc and protein. These nutrients can prove to be extremely beneficial for overall body and skin health.
Also read: Pregnancy and air pollution: If you are pregnant, you should take care of these 5 things during pollution.
