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Maintaining a Healthy Weight During Pregnancy

Moderate weight gain during pregnancy is absolutely normal – after all, you are growing a tiny person in your uterus! However, making sure that you’re gaining the right amount of weight for your body type is important. Gaining too much weight during pregnancy poses health problems including an increased risk of gestational diabetes, hypertension, and other serious complications.

How Much is Too Much?

At your first prenatal visit, ask your OB/GYN how much weight gain is appropriate for your current weight. For example, a woman who was average weight before getting pregnant should gain 25 to 35 pounds after becoming pregnant. Underweight women should gain 28 to 40 pounds. And overweight women may need to gain only 15 to 25 pounds during pregnancy.

Tips on Keeping a Healthy Weight During Pregnancy Pregnant woman with an apple resting on her belly

To make sure you’re staying on track with a weight gain that’s right for your body type, here some ideas on maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy.

  • Contrary to popular belief, there’s no need to “eat for two.” In your first trimester, you only need about 30 extra calories per day, and in the third trimester, only 300 extra calories a day. Adding a healthy, filling snack into your normal routine should cover the need for these extra calories.
  • If you were exercising before your pregnancy, it’s normally OK to maintain your current workout routine (Although make sure you’re cleared by your doctor first).
  • Reduce consumption of sugar, fat and salt. Sugar and fatty foods pack on unwanted extra pounds quickly, and too much salt can increase swelling in your hands and feet.
  • Make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Plenty of sleep allows for healthier weight gain, improved mood, and may help for easier weight loss after pregnancy.

If you have any concerns about how much weight gain is recommended during your pregnancy, be sure to discuss them with your provider at your next visit. To set up your next prenatal visit at either our Woodstock or Canton location, you can contact our office.

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