Pregnancy and Weight Gain

Some women gain significant amounts of weight throughout their bodies while carrying a child, while others “hold” the figure well during the nine months of pregnancy.    Whichever type of woman you are, it’s a fact of life that when a woman is pregnant she will put on weight.     The following information is a review of the facts about healthy weight gain during pregnancy, and how you can lose that “baby weight” once your child is born.

The Facts About Pregnancy and Your Weight

As a benchmark, a woman who is considered average weight for her height should only gain between 25-35 pounds during her pregnancy.   Women who are considered “underweight” should gain between 28-40 pounds, while overweight women will see their weight gain increase by 15-20 pounds on average.

A small percentage of women actually lose weight during their pregnancy, but these cases are uncommon.  Speak with a doctor if you are concerned about weight loss during any stage of your pregnancy.

Myths About Eating During Pregnancy

It is incredibly important that you maintain a healthy diet during pregnancy.  The idea of “eating for two” is nothing more than a myth – and a potentially damaging one at that.  Taking in extra calories at a time when your movement is limited anyway is simply not healthy!

Experts say that you only need to consume an extra 100-300 calories per day in order to account for your unborn child.

It is not unsafe to engage in light to moderate exercise during your pregnancy.  Speak with your physician about recommended exercise programs that you can do to stay fit.  Walking and swimming are both popular forms of exercise (done in moderation) during pregnancy.  Avoid fast food or items high in fat.

Getting Back in Shape After Pregnancy

Perhaps the hardest thing about losing weight after pregnancy is getting back in the habit of eating right and working out.  In fact, having a baby in the house forces most people to create an entirely new daily schedule.  It is essential however, that women make time for fitness and exercise.   A young child requires a great deal of energy to care for – energy that can come naturally from the endorphins released during a workout.   Put your baby in a stroller and go for a brisk walk or run.  Take part in “Mommy and Me” or Yoga classes that help you stay fit at a time when sleep deprivation is a concern.