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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

VP of Outpatient Operations Announced

Iberia Medical Center recently announced that Jacob Freyou has been promoted to Vice President of Outpatient Operations and Support Services for the two-campus hospital. Jacob has been with Iberia Medical Center for 25 years, serving the past 22 years as Director of Rehab Services. During his tenure, his accomplishments include achieving substantial growth in rehab services and project oversight of the state-of-the-art Rehab Center at the Iberia Medical Center North Campus in 2018.


Jacob was among a select group of mangers handpicked to serve on the hospital’s first Leadership Development Institute, charged with developing and implementing a hospital-wide patient and physician satisfaction initiative credited for notable gains in market share and satisfaction scores. 


 Jacob has also been heavily involved in the community. He has served as the Chair for the long running Iberia Medical Center Foundation Annual Golf Tournament, now in its 18th year.  Funds from the tournament have been invested in equipment purchases, hospital capital improvement projects and community healthcare initiatives benefiting the residents of Iberia Parish. Jacob has also been very active in supporting local youth sports including Loreauville High School, the Evangeline Little League and Iberia Parish Middle School League. 


 “Jacob is highly respected in our community, and his proven track record, experience and vast working relationships in our parish will serve us well in helping us advance our operational objectives. His passion for quality care and service excellence will enhance the patient experience across our outpatient service lines,” stated Dionne Viator, Iberia Medical Center CEO.  

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