How I'm Preventing Stretch Marks

Stretch marks are a badge of honor, but I'm doing everything I can to avoid them!

Here's my routine:

1. Exercise
I exercise and stretch almost every single day. Exercise improves circulation, which keeps the skin elastic and stretchy as it grows. Plus, improved circulation reduces the development of varicose veins and swollen ankles (and I'm proud to say I haven't experienced either of those yet).

2. Hydrate
Before getting pregnant, I drank half my body weight in ounces of water each day. But once I got pregnant, I upped my intake and now drink almost a gallon of water each day.

I don't drink any caffeinated beverages (since they can actually dehydrate you).

3. Nutrition
I've been following the 21 Day Fix nutrition plan and recently switched to the Hammer & Chisel nutrition plan (which allows more food, wohooo)! It's a common misconception that "you can eat whatever you want while pregnant." In reality, pregnant women only need about 300-500 extra calories per day (depending on the trimester).

I start each day with Shakeology, which actually replaces my prenatal vitamin. I have 2-3 servings of fruit, 3-4 servings of vegetables, 2 servings of healthy carbs, 4 servings of protein, and one serving of healthy fat each day.

4. Moisturize
Keeping skin supple is the last step in avoiding stretch marks. There are many oils and lotions out there, but as you know, I avoid toxins and chemicals like the plague.

I apply:
Earth Mama Natural Stretch Oil to my tummy, breasts, thighs, and butt 1-2 times per day.