6-week pregnant: baby development and diet tips

BABY DEVELOPMENT
Guess what? Your baby is now starting to develop skin! And, amazingly, all his other organs, while still tiny, are already in place. Optic nerves are developing, and his head is now well formed, though still much larger than the rest of him. His heart and liver are taking up a lot of room in your womb this week. . His arms and legs are lengthening, and the little ‘tail' will soon disappear. In the next couple of weeks, his ‘webbed’ hands and feet will make room for proper, well- separated fingers and toes. What a busy week!

YOUR BODY
You are well on your way, with your baby due in around 33 weeks. Many women have to down shift a gear around this time. Some of the less-than-pleasant side effects of pregnancy might be rearing their heads. They include for example, the much talked-about nausea, sleeping problems and mood changes. They appear because the hormonal changes in your body are perfectly normal. Still, don’t push yourself too much right now! Being pregnant may not be an illness, but there is still a strain on your body. Perhaps your daily routine and your working life will allow you to take an extra break here or there.

NUTRITION
Iodine is an essential trace element, and during pregnancy your iodine requirement increases. Iodine deficiency can have negative consequences on an unborn child so it's important you're meeting your body’s needs, and your unborn child’s needs. Along with seafood and dairy products, one rich food source of iodine is from iodised salt. So while we don't advocate adding too much salt, you might want to consider using iodised salt if you do use any. Check with your health care provider if iodine is a nutrient of concern in your case.

TIPS
Been wondering if you can or should stay physically active during pregnancy? The short answer is yes!