7 Health Benefits of Motherhood ...

Kati

7 Health Benefits of Motherhood ...
7 Health Benefits of Motherhood ...

You’d be forgiven for thinking there can’t be many health benefits of motherhood – after all, pregnancy and labor can be tough on the body, and that’s before the sleepless nights, toddler tantrums and emotional trauma when your little one runs into the wall (that’s happened to everyone, right?!). And when your lovely little toddler is running around refusing to put trousers on, or screaming in the supermarket, it’s all too easy to wonder what on earth you were thinking…so here’s the top health benefits of motherhood. Trust me, they help in those dark moments!

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1. It’s Great Exercise…

Parenting shop Mothercare recently released the results of a survey that suggest new mums push a buggy 750 miles in their first year as a parent – that’s almost the length of the UK! Not only is walking a great way to lose weight, but pushing a pushchair also builds muscle. There’s even a number of fitness classes involving pushchairs becoming more popular, which makes this one of the great health benefits of motherhood – and it’s a great way to be social, too.

2. You’ll Eat Better…

Studies have shown that new parents tend to go on a health kick – especially mums who breastfeed – and the effects last a lot longer than you’d thought. While most families will relax with a take-away every now and again, parents tend to choose healthier diets once they’ve got little ones. Not only does that make you feel better, but it’s sure to boost your hair and skin, too.

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3. Your Immune System Strengthens…

Research conducted by the Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh suggested that childless adults become ill twice as much as those who have children – and the astounding results were said to be due to the development of a “mental toughness” when raising kids. So while your little one might appear to bring home every bug going, you can rest assured that your immune system will do well.

4. It Keeps Your Brain Young…

Having kids means you have to learn to do everything again. From learning how to make bottles and change nappies to discipline methods, distraction techniques and even teaching your child to walk, your brain is constantly developing – and when homework begins, your brain gets even more of a boost. Properly engaging and learning keeps the brain healthy and young, and has even been linked to preventing mental decline in old age.

5. It Reduces Health Risks…

We’ve all heard that breast is best for babies, and a million and one reasons why. But did you also know that it’s excellent for you? Recent NHS figures show that breastfeeding cuts breast and ovarian cancer risks, and breastfeeding mothers are less likely to have high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol or heart disease. There’s a whole number of charities who can help with breastfeeding, including experienced nurses who can help with latch problems, so it’s definitely worth getting in touch with them if you need help or support.

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6. You See the Sun More…

Yep, having children means you spend much less time enjoying soaps, bars and cinemas, and much more time outside. Whether it’s learning to walk, running through the park or practicing a sport, kids love playing in the great outdoors, and parents get much healthier through this too. A blast of fresh air is one of the best cures for a low mood, and increased oxygen improves concentration. That’s before mentioning the massive increase in Vitamin D, which is vital for good bone health. Just don’t forget the sun cream!

7. It Helps to Break Habits…

Whether it’s having a few too many at the weekend, lighting up a cigarette or staying up far too late and missing valuable sleep, everyone has a bad habit. But it seems that once we become parents, we are much better at fighting them. Smokers are three times more likely to quit smoking during pregnancy than at any other time, and most parents don’t start up again. Figures for alcohol are very similar. There’s a whole variety of support available for people who are trying to kick a habit, so – parent or not – don’t be afraid to take it! It’s probably one of the most amazing health benefits of motherhood.

Of course, parenthood isn’t easy. There are plenty of downsides – long lie ins, anyone?! But it’s all worth it in the end, and it’s amazing to see how it benefits the body, mind and soul. Have you noticed any health improvements since you had children? I’d love to hear about them!

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Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

@Carmen Congrats on quitting smoking! It is a really challenging thing to do. I also quit smoking when I found out I was pregnant with my eldest daughter. I have been smoke free for 18 yrs now!

Go not got*

It also reduces your use of cancer.

I cannot agree more with this! Having two kids I quit smoking I got outside every day, I'm so in shape from chasing them not to mention everything I do with them everyday makes my life satisfying and healthier, yup even meals! Love this

Definitely helps with eating healthier! My hubby and I used to eat terribly, lots of meat and hardly any veges. Ever since I got pregnant we changed our diet around and now we barely eat any red meat, more chicken, and lots of veges. Now I just need to cut out the junk food before my daughter gets old enough to want it too lol!

There are a actually health benefits to motherhood! Lol After having 4 children raising one to adulthood with 3 more on their way, all I can say is WOW! It is stressful but what better way to keep you fit (mind,body,soul) keep you young and on the ball for anything and everything they can throw your way! For those of you who are first time mothers cherish everything you can about your little ones because they grow up in a blink of an eye.

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