How Much Should I Weigh? Tips for a Healthy Weight Gain During Pregnancy

One common mistake that some women will make during pregnancy is taking to heart the old saying "eating for two". While it is true that while pregnant a woman is providing the necessary nutrition her unborn baby needs to grow and thrive, it does not necessarily mean she has to eat a great deal more than she normally would. Here is a look at what is considered a healthy weight gain during a normal pregnancy and tips to achieve this healthy weight goal.

For women who are of average height and average weight they should gain anywhere from 25-35 pounds during their 9 months of pregnancy. This is of course considering the mom to be is having a normal pregnancy with one single baby and not multiples.

Women who are underweight may be encouraged to gain an additional 10-15 pounds. Doctors may recommend this additional weight gain in case the mom to be loses more weight in the beginning of her pregnancy due to morning sickness.

Obese and overweight women will likely be advised to gain fewer pounds than average or underweight women. They are typically recommended to only gain 15-20 pounds in order to stay healthier. Some extremely overweight women may only gain a few pounds and yet are still able to maintain a healthy pregnancy.

Pregnant women who may have already gained a large amount of weight in the beginning of their pregnancy should not try to lose weight. Losing weight is never recommended during pregnancy. Instead, try to start anew and make the best of the rest of the pregnancy by eating healthier and getting some exercise in.

Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy is not difficult so long as the mom to be has support and the knowledge of how to get to this healthy weight goal. Generally, a normal diet of healthy proteins, vegetables and fruits can be eaten with some extra calories from food full of calcium such as yogurt or an extra glass or two of milk. Some women think that they can fill the extra calories they are allowed to eat with fast food or extra fatty foods. This is a mistake as these foods contain little or no nutritional value.

When it comes to cravings while pregnant, so long as the mom to be is not craving anything unusual or food that would be considered unhealthy for her such as some soft processed cheeses, lunch meat or sushi, she is perfectly able to have some of the foods she craves so long as she eats these foods in moderation. For example, if the mom to be is craving a milk shake, she should feel free to get one, but choose the smaller size and not make it a daily habit.

For those who have additional questions or concerns about their diet during pregnancy should always turn to their doctor or midwife for advice. They have excellent tools and information that help a pregnant woman maintain a good, healthy weight.

Sources: http://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/healthy-weight-gain