How to Lose Weight & Stay Healthy While Being Pregnant

weight loss For pregnant women

How to Lose Weight & Stay Healthy While Being Pregnant
Photo Credit pregnant #4 image by Adam Borkowski from Fotolia.com
In most cases, weight loss during pregnancy is not recommended. The weight you gain while pregnant helps cushion and support the baby while providing nourishment for new life. Obese women who have concerns about further weight gain or complications during pregnancy may consider discussing a diet and exercise plan with their doctors that could prevent weight gain or lead to limited weight loss. Most medical institutions do not recommend weight loss during pregnancy, but a 2007 study cited in Science Daily showed that obese women who exercised and lost weight during pregnancy actually had fewer complications and were more likely to experience a natural birth than those who gained weight during pregnancy.

Step 1

Aim for the American College of Sports Medicine recommended daily activity. Hit the treadmill or swimming pool for 30 minutes, five days a week. Aquatic exercise provides a good option for pregnant women because it provides buoyancy and takes the stress off your joints. Make sure you listen to your body and unless you regularly exercised before your pregnancy, work your way up slowly.

Step 2

Stop the "eat for two" mantra. Work with your doctor and a nutritionist to determine how many calories you should consume each day in order to nourish your baby and yourself. Depending on the number of calories you were consuming pre-pregnancy, you may find that you can actually cut back on your food intake while still effectively providing for yourself and your baby.

Step 3

Concentrate on healthy eating. Keep taking your vitamins, but don't skimp on healthy options just because you have the vitamin insurance plan. Nutrient-dense foods like low-fat dairy, high-fiber grains, leafy green vegetables, fresh fruit and lean proteins will help ensure a healthy and happy baby while also filling you up on fewer total calories.

Step 4

Focus on delivering a healthy baby, not on losing a certain amount of weight. Weight gain during pregnancy is normal and expected, so rather than being sidetracked by your weight, get active, eat right and concentrate on being the best mom you can be for the bundle of joy that's about to arrive.

weight loss For pregnant women

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