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Posted by u/cuttingseason_2024·

Pregnancy and Supplements: What's Safe to Keep?

TL;DR: I'm pregnant and wondering which supplements I can safely keep while lifting and cutting.

So, I'm 27F, cutting for summer and now I'm finding myself pregnant (surprise!). I've been lifting for a year and really invested in my supplement game. I was wondering, what supplements are safe to keep in my routine?

I'm thinking about protein, fish oil, and maybe some beta-alanine, but I'm not sure about caffeine or ashwagandha. I've read conflicting stuff, and honestly, my brain is all over the place right now.

Anyone been in this boat? Would love to hear what you kept or ditched and any research you found helpful! Trying to keep it healthy for the little bean, but I still want to crush my goals!

34 comments

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u/cuttingseason_2024·

Facts! Keeping protein and fish oil seems solid. Caffeine? i'd dial it down just to be safe. Maybe switch to decaf coffee for that warm feeling without the jitters. You got this!

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u/brokegains·

Yo, if you ditch too many supplements, how are you gonna keep those gains? I'd say protein is a must, but honestly, you could probably skip beta-alanine for a while. Just focus on that baby bump now!

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u/squat_to_pizza_5132·

Protein, fish oil, and maybe a little creatine (if you're used to it) could be fine! Just think about what's most important. I mean, I'm all for a solid protein intake, but also, if you need a break from lifting, cardio is totally fine too. No pressure, right?

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u/6footdadbod·

Remember, you're not just lifting for yourself anymore! I did some dad bod workouts while my wife was pregnant. Light stuff like squats and push-ups can keep you feeling good without overdoing it

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u/strongest_grandma·

My sister used to swear by prenatal vitamins! They helped with energy and were super beneficial. Maybe check with your doc about adding those too!

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u/cuttingseason_2024·

Congrats! Just keep things simple. Protein is usually safe and so is fish oil, as long as it's high quality. As for caffeine, I'd reduce it or skip it entirely. You got this, momma!

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u/healthynotskinny·

Definitely check in with a healthcare provider! They can give you tailored advice. Just because something is a supplement doesn't mean it's always safe during pregnancy.

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u/marathon_mike·

Congrats! i'm not a supplement expert, but I did some research and found that too much caffeine can be a no-go. Stick to tea or just limit your coffee for now. Also, keep up those workouts, walking is a solid option if you need a break from lifting!

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u/broscience_bro·

This is a skill issue. You can still lift while pregnant! Just be smart about it. If anything, lower the weights, increase reps, and keep the heart rate steady. No need to bench press a car!

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u/marathon_mike·

Ngl, this whole topic has me curious! I wonder how all these changes will affect your training. Just stay positive, and remember it's all part of a new journey.

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u/healthynotskinny·

Nutrition is so vital during pregnancy! Make sure you're getting enough folate and omega-3s for your little one. I'd advise against caffeine and anything that could mess with your hormones. Listen to your body and nourish it well.

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u/crossfit_mama·

You know, I always say, listen to your body! If you're feeling low energy, maybe protein and some healthy snacks are all you need. Just keep lifting at a comfortable level

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u/squat_to_pizza_5132·

This is a tough one! I mean, you wanna crush those summer goals, but you gotta think about your little pizza topping too. I'd say ditch the beta-alanine, stick to the protein, and just enjoy those cravings!

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u/proteinpancakes22·

OMG, protein pancakes are the bomb! Just make sure your protein powder is safe for pregnancy. I usually mix banana, oats, and a bit of protein for my pancakes. It's a game changer! 🤤

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u/crossfit_mama·

I was in your shoes, and I totally get it! Protein powder was a lifesaver for me. As for ashwagandha, I'd steer clear since there's not enough research on it for pregnant women. You're already doing great by asking these questions!

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u/bro_split_bro_420·

You can totally keep working out! Just adjust your routine. But I think ditching the caffeine is a solid call. Better safe than sorry!

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u/brokegains·

Honestly, just eat food! Supplements are for those who can't eat enough. If you're cutting for summer, maybe focus on whole foods and skip the extra stuff. Plus, who needs ashwagandha when you have cravings, right?

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u/6footdadbod·

As a dad of two, I can tell you, the energy levels will change. I wouldn't overdo caffeine, makes you jittery enough without adding a baby to the mix! 😂 Keep lifting but listen to your body.

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u/squat_to_pizza_5132·

Also, what about your cardio? Like, do you even do that? Asking for a friend who's still lifting and running marathons! 😂 But for real, stick to what's safe and ditch the unnecessary stuff.

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u/strongest_grandma·

I loved my workouts while pregnant! Just shifted my focus from heavy lifting to bodyweight and lighter weights. Listen to your body and adjust as needed. And if you feel off, cut back on the supplements.

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u/veganlifter34·

That's a fair point! Hydration is key, and I found that keeping things plant-based helped with energy levels. The balance is crucial, and you can totally do this while being healthy!

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u/squat_to_pizza_5132·

Facts! Who needs caffeine when you have the joy of pregnancy? Just drink more water, eat pizza, and lift moderately. Baby will be cheering for you!

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u/midwest_lifter·

I wouldn't stress too much about keeping everything. Focus on whole foods for the nutrients. Your body is about to do some incredible work. Supplement with caution, especially with things like ashwagandha and caffeine. They might not be the best friends right now.

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u/strongest_grandma·

Oh dear, I've been in your shoes! I had to navigate this during my lifting years. I kept my protein but stopped anything with stimulants, like caffeine. You don't want your heart racing while your body is busy growing a human!

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u/proteinpancakes22·

OMG, you have to try my protein pancakes recipe! Just mix fairlife protein with oats and egg whites, and you're set! And yeah, focus on healthy foods first, then think about supplements. 💪

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u/bro_split_bro_420·

100! Don't forget to listen to your body, though. It's a marathon, not a sprint. You can cut later, focus on your health and the baby now. Plus, when you do get back to cutting, you'll come back stronger.

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u/calisthenicsking·

Do what feels right for you! I think taking a chill approach with your workouts and keeping the supplements to a minimum is smart. Just enjoy the journey!

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u/strongest_grandma·

I was lifting when I found out I was pregnant with my first, and let me tell you, it was a wild ride! I kept my protein shakes, but ditched most of the other supplements. Some things like beta-alanine aren't really studied enough for pregnancy. Better safe than sorry! Always prioritize whole foods first, too.

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u/crossfit_mama·

Congrats on the surprise pregnancy! As for supplements, I'd keep protein powder, and fish oil can be beneficial for both you and the baby. I ditched caffeine and anything with ashwagandha when I was pregnant. Just stay cautious!

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u/veganlifter34·

Nutrient-dense food is your best friend now! Stick to whole foods, especially for omega-3s instead of just relying on fish oil. Things like flaxseed and chia seeds are also great options. I can totally relate, but your body will adapt. Trust it!

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u/calisthenicsking·

Honestly, just listen to your body and take it easy. A little protein can help, but other than that, your focus should be on health, not just the gym. Caffeine? Maybe cut it for a while, better safe than sorry. You've got this!

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u/healthynotskinny·

Congrats on the surprise pregnancy! As for supplements, you might want to keep protein and fish oil. They're generally considered safe during pregnancy. Just make sure the fish oil is from a reputable source to avoid any toxins. Always best to consult with your doctor, though.

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u/veganlifter34·

Congrats! I was vegan during my pregnancy, and I focused on getting my nutrients from whole foods. As for supplements, I used vegan protein and DHA from algae. Just make sure to check with your doctor.

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u/broscience_bro·

Bro, if you're worried about your baby, maybe just chill on the pre-workout and all that! Stick to food, it's not rocket science! Plus, you don't want to be that mom with caffeine jitters. 😂

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