One of the largest side effects of pregnancy is weight gain, and it is often the side effect that High Desert women dread the most. It is important for women to understand that weight gain is an essential part of pregnancy, but it’s important to manage your weight gain.
There is a healthy way to gain weight and an unhealthy way to do so. The most important thing that pregnant women in Apple Valley need to do is eat enough nutrients in order to nourish their baby and help their body develop the child inside of them. At Reza Ahmadinia OBGYN, we work with each individual pregnant woman in order to ensure that she gains the right amount of weight for her and for her baby.
What is the Normal Weight Gain During Pregnancy?
Normal weight gain will vary based on the individual patient. A woman who is underweight will be required to gain more weight during pregnancy in order to sustain her own health, as well as the health of the baby. A woman who is overweight will be expected to gain less weight throughout the 40 weeks of pregnancy.
In general, doctors abide by certain guidelines. An underweight woman should gain between 28 and 40 pounds during her pregnancy. A woman whose weight is normal should gain about 25 to 35 pounds. A woman who is overweight should gain about 15 to 25 pounds.
How Can Women Manage Their Weight Gain?
The best way to manage weight gain is to eat a healthy, well-balanced and nutritious diet. Women are apt to feel cravings for certain foods during different portions of their pregnancy, and indulging in those cravings is okay as long as it is done in moderation.
The phrase “eating for two” has long been popular among pregnant women, but it’s important to avoid over-eating as it can lead to excessive weight gain. This is not good for the woman or for the developing baby. Meals that are filled with lean protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables are best for mom and baby.
What Types of Food Should Women Eat While Pregnant?
Women should always eat plenty of protein while pregnant. While meat is a valuable source of protein, there are other ways to get it into the diet as well. Peanut butter, low-fat dairy products and eggs all have lots of protein. Fresh fruit, whole grain snacks and water are all great dietary choices while pregnant.
Every woman is different, and each pregnancy that she experiences will be different as well. This means that while a woman might gain a certain amount of weight during her first pregnancy, she may gain a different amount during subsequent pregnancies.
Every circumstance is evaluated on an individual basis, and Dr. Ahmadinia works with each patient in order to be sure that they are gaining the appropriate amount of weight. Women who are concerned about gaining too much weight or too little weight should be sure to talk to their OB/GYN at their next prenatal appointment.
