Pregnancy Fatigue Boosters and Zappers

• Coffee: If you haven't given up caffeine during your pregnancy, you might think coffee is the elixir of energy. But in fact, it's a big part of your problem. Caffeine might give you a temporary boost, but the drop in energy that follows leaves you far worse off than before.
• Sugar: Sugar works a bit like caffeine. A Snickers bar might give you a quick perk, but the drop in blood sugar that follows is a double whammy to your body's efforts to stay alert. Try to avoid sugary products.
• "Hidden" caffeine: Don't forget the "hidden" sources of caffeine that can throw your body onto the perk-up-fall-down roller coaster. Colas, chocolate, and cocoa are all apt to aggravate your sleepy state.
• Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates can calm your body and promote a good night's sleep. Try a complex-carbohydrate snack (such as crackers, cereal, bread, or pasta) before bed.
• Nutrasweet: Before bedtime, avoid foods with the artificial sweetener Nutrasweet (watch those diet sodas!) It is a stimulant that keeps the brain active and will make it even more difficult to sleep soundly.
• Cigarettes and booze: Not only are these things bad for your developing baby , but they also add to your fatigue. Stay away.
• Chamomile: Go natural. Try a cup of chamomile tea before bed. Chamomile is an herb famous for its ability to help people sleep soundly.