Third trimester: Exercise and nutrition

About exercise

Exercising during this trimester may feel like more work because there is more of you to move around, but it is very important to your continued health and comfort. Walking and swimming may be the easiest for you to do right now. (See Exercises -- pregnancy, labor and birth.)

About nutrition

Excellent nutrition continues to be important during your pregnancy. During this trimester, be sure that your diet includes adequate amounts of protein and calcium. These enhance your baby's brain development and protect your own bones.

Eating foods that are high in carbohydrates (pasta and starches) in the days before your due date gives you sustained energy for the labor ahead.

Related Links

Top 20 foods for pregnancy

Exercises: Pregnancy, labor and birth

Third trimester

First published: 10/04/2002
Last updated: 06/19/2003

Reviewed by: Allina Patient Education experts