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Vitamin B-12 May Prevent Birth Defects
Vitamin B-12 May Prevent Birth Defects
Women of childbearing age (especially those who are pregnant or trying to conceive) are advised to eat 400 mg of folic acid (folate) daily to prevent neural tube defects, such as spina bifida, from occurring in their babies. New research shows that vitamin B12 may also play a role.  

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Easy Techniques for Seated Stretching

Deskbound Fitness!
-- By Jen Mueller, Certified Personal Trainer

Whether you're at a desk, computer, school, or all three, it's important to take stretch breaks. A couple of breaks each day will help you stay alert and keep stiffness at bay. This set of stretches is designed for those who are already sitting down or those who prefer to stay seated for balance reasons.

Make sure the chair you are using is sturdy. Remember to warm up first and never stretch to the point of pain. Know your body's limits. Hold each stretch for 10-15 seconds, repeating two or three times, depending on how you feel.

Neck stretch: Relax your neck and shoulders. Allow your head to stretch to the right side by lowering your right ear toward your right shoulder. Feel the stretch along the left side of your neck. Repeat for the other side.

Bicep stretch:
Sit tall on a chair. Hold your arms out to the side parallel with the ground and the palms of the hand facing forward. Rotate the hands so the palms face to the rear. Stretch the arms back as far as possible, squeezing the bicep as you stretch.

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Member Comments About this Article
"Thank you for these! I get so tense at my desk but don't want to conspicuously start doing yoga or something. This really helps!" -- BAKERSAR
"The Post Pregnancy Fitness guide in the Post Pregnancy and Parenting section of the Resource Center (http://babyfit.sparkpeople.com/po
st-pregnancy-fitness-overview.
asp)
has many helpful tips for getting back in shape following vaginal and c-section births." -- TANYA_BABYFIT
"Thanks! I have a C section just 18 days ago and I guess I can start with these strectches. SUGGESTION: Please mention some safe exercises for C section mommies trying to get the mid section/core area back in shape. Stomach and Back needs strengthening and need to get back in shape :))" -- MOM2B2011
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About The Author
Jen Mueller
Jen received her master's in health promotion and education from the University of Cincinnati. As a certified personal trainer, she also holds a certification in prenatal and postpartum exercise. Jen has two children and enjoys running marathons.

 


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