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Healthy Holiday Habits for Expecting Mothers

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Healthy Holiday Habits for Expecting Mothers

December 4, 2025

The holiday season is a time for celebration and connecting with family and friends. But, if you are expecting, you may also feel the pressure of balancing all the festive traditions with the physical and emotional needs of pregnancy.


Jillian Henry, Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, has a few realistic healthy holiday habits to help you feel your best while still enjoying the season.


Keep a Balanced Plate

When possible, fill half of your plate with fruits and half with vegetables. Enjoy your holiday favorites, including desserts, in moderation. No need to skip them entirely!

Stay Hydrated

Holiday foods are often salty, and indoor heating can increase dehydration. Keep a bottle of water with you, and consider adding electrolyte or flavor packets if that helps you drink more. And of course, avoid alcohol throughout pregnancy.

Prioritize Rest

Holiday schedules can be draining. Be sure to incorporate quiet time to rest and nap. Give yourself permission to say no to certain events or stay for shorter periods of time.

Body Movement

Movement supports energy circulation and mood. Try taking short walks after meals. Always remember to listen to your body and avoid overdoing it.

Manage Holiday Emotions

The holidays can be emotional and overwhelming. Here are a few ways to help you cope: deep breathing for 2-3 minutes, remind yourself you can say no without guilt, and don’t forget to ask for help with cooking, shopping or hosting events. Most importantly, focus on joy – not perfection. It’s okay if traditions look a little different this year.




Jillian Henry, NP, OB/GYN

Iberia Medical Center Welcomes Dr. Rana El Sabbagh, Nephrologist

Updated: Apr 30, 2024

New Iberia, LA  – Iberia Medical Center welcomes Dr. Rana El Sabbagh, Nephrologist, to its team of medical professionals. Dr. El Sabbagh specializes in diseases and disorders of the kidneys including kidney stones, acute, chronic and end-stage renal failure, fluid and electrolyte disorders and patients needing dialysis. "We are excited to have Dr. El Sabbagh practice medicine in New Iberia. She is a great addition to our growing medical staff,” states Dionne Viator, Interim CEO, Iberia Medical Center.


After graduating from Lebanese University in Beirut, Lebanon with "high distinction,”Dr. El Sabbagh attained Internal Medicine Specialist status at the Case Western Reserve/University Hospitals, Cleveland, Ohio. She completed a fellowship at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, Nephrology and Hypertension Division, where she was elected a Chief Fellow. Dr. El Sabbagh is a published medical author and is participating in several ongoing clinical research protocols.


Professional memberships include the American College of Physicians –Internal Medicine and the American Society of Nephrology. Dr. El Sabbagh speaks fluent French.

Dr. El Sabbagh’s practice is located inside the office of Dr. Gerard Sigue, 2312 East Main Street, across from the IMC Main Campus. For appointments or more information, call 337.374.7156.

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