The defining baby bump during pregnancy announces an impending arrival, but the problems with gaining too much weight go beyond how you look or feel about yourself. Excessive weight gain may increase your chances of successfully undergoing a cesarean, according to BabyCenter. You might also have more difficulty losing the weight after you give birth. The recommended weight gain depends on your pre-pregnancy weight. A women with a normal BMI should gain between 25 and 35 lbs. Overweight women should aim for 15 to 25 lbs. An underweight woman should gain between 28 and 40 lbs.
Step 1
Calculate your pre-pregnancy body mass index, or BMI, to identify a healthy weight gain for your pregnancy. Monitor your weight gain based on the measurements taken at your prenatal appointments to ensure you are staying on track.
Step 2
Eat a balanced diet during your pregnancy. Choose primarily whole grains, produce and lean protein sources to give your body the nutrients necessary to support your pregnancy.
Step 3
Record the food you eat in a food journal if you struggle with eating a balanced diet. Identify the time of day or situations that cause you to overeat. Use the food journal as a guide for making healthier food choices in the pregnancy.
Step 4
Exercise as you did before pregnancy if the type of activity is safe for pregnancy. Consult with your physician if you are unsure about the safety of the exercise. Scale back the intensity if necessary.
Step 5
Walk each day to increase your physical activity level if you did not exercise much before pregnancy. The moderate intensity of walking is generally safe for pregnancy. Prenatal exercise classes are another option for adding physical activity to your day.
Step 6
Discuss large weight gains with your physician to identify the possible causes and solutions. Work with your doctor to ensure a healthy weight gain during the pregnancy.
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