How to Avoid Stretch Marks from Pregnancy or Weight Gain

Looking for strategies to prevent stretch marks from forming? Some people may not be aware that stretch marks happen due to both pregnancy and weight gain. Stretch marks are not just for pregnant people. They're caused when your skin stretches through rapid weight gain and loss. This can happen whether you are pregnant or not. So how can you avoid stretch marks from pregnancy or weight gain?

Stay hydrated. Skin elasticity increases when moist. By staying hydrated you lesson the chance that your skin will be stressed from pregnancy or weight gain. Stretch marks happen when stretching skin doesn't yield. Whether you are pregnant or not, it's always a good idea to stay hydrated (for other health reasons as well).

Avoid overeating. It makes sense that the bigger you are, the more stretch marks you will develop. Never diet when pregnant. Instead, eat well balanced meals and avoid overeating. It's natural to gain weight when pregnant. You don't want to go over the recommended limit set by your doctor. The best tactic is to eat as you always have, unless you normally overeat or have a poor diet.

Eat nutrient dense foods. One of the best ways to control weight gain and stave off stretch marks is to stay away from empty calories. What does this mean? Empty calories is a term used to describe the consumption of high calorie foods with little nutritional value. When we fill up on nutrient dense food first, we have fewer cravings for the bad stuff. The bad stuff is what makes us gain excess weight and stretch marks, whether we are pregnant or not.

Moisturize several times daily. Soft supple skin is less likely to get stretch marks. Keep skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water and adopting a daily moisturizing routine. This lessens the chance of developing stretch marks. I used cocoa butter as a moisturizer and drank plenty of water all through my 4 pregnancies. I have no stretch marks whatsoever.

Stay active. Keeping your weight under control and your skin healthy requires exercise. Exercise stretches skin gradually. It also guards against rapid weight gain followed by weight loss, the main cause of stretch marks. By staying active your whole life, you lower your risk of developing stretch marks. Whether you're pregnant or not, consult your physician before starting a new exercise routine.

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