Pregnancy And Baby Care Articles During Pregnancy

...at prior to getting pregnant, you will need to consume 100 to 300 more calories than your regular diet. Get to know your BMI and based on it you might have to gain 25 to 35 pounds during pregnancy. But in case you are overweight you will be advised to gain just about 15 to 25 pounds, which means you need to think about controlling weight gain during pregnancy.

Eating healthy is crucial to provide all the required nutrients for you and the baby and eating small amounts four to five times a day will help you gain weight during pregnancy optimally. You can maintain a pregnancy weight gain chart to record weight gain weekly to have an idea of how you are progressing. In addition to a healthy pregnancy diet, it is vital to exercise moderately to stay fit and flexible, which will help immensely during childbirth. Walking is considered the best and safest exercise to control weight during pregnancy.

Rapid weight gain during pregnancy occurs mostly during the third trimester as the baby gains weight to prepare for life outside the womb. Moreover, you are done with morning sickness, which makes you eat more than before. If you weigh more than the needed amount, consume more of low fat and calcium rich foods that aid in controlling weight during pregnancy. Switch over to ample servings of vegetables, fruits and juices. Rapid weight gain could also mean that there is surplus fluid retention and in such cases you should consult your care provider. Similarly, low weight gain during pregnancy can mean that the baby does not get enough nutrients and can result in intra uterine growth retardation (IUGR). Though the exact amount of weight gain in pregnancy varies with each individual, it is best to try for good weight gain during pregnancy.

Slow weight gain during pregnancy is the answer to controlling weight during pregnancy. The best way to do this is to eat small meals and exercise regularly. However, take care not to overstrain yourself. Drink plain water, low fat milk and yogurt and eat plenty of vegetables and fruits.

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