Healthy Pregnancy Habits: What Helps and What to Limit

You don't need a scary list to have a healthy pregnancy — just clarity on what tends to help, and a few things worth limiting.

What tends to help

• Regular walking, if tolerated and medically appropriate, may support circulation and mood.
• Staying hydrated throughout the day, rather than only when you feel thirsty.
• Iron and calcium-rich foods, especially from the second trimester on.
• Consistent sleep, and a prenatal vitamin taken as your provider recommends.

What's best to limit or avoid

• Alcohol — no amount has been established as safe during pregnancy.
• Smoking, vaping, and secondhand smoke exposure.
• High-mercury fish like swordfish or shark — lower-mercury options like salmon are fine.
• Raw or undercooked foods and unpasteurized dairy, for food-safety reasons.
• Starting, stopping, or changing medication without talking to your provider first.

See our full, regularly reviewed breakdown with sources: Healthy Choices.

This article is general educational content, not medical advice. See our Medical Disclaimer.