When a woman is pregnant, she generally expects to gain weight. However, an obese woman's recommended weight gain is not the same as the average pregnant woman's. In fact, some women who are obese prior to their pregnancy may actually be advised to lose weight over the next nine months. Many can monitor their diet with a few simple guidelines; however, for some, a special diet may be in order.
Significance of Weight
Overweight and obese women are more prone to pregnancy complications than the average woman, and are generally advised to gain less weight during their pregnancies. These complications include gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, as well as congenital deformities of the baby. A woman's suggested weight gain is usually based on her body mass index, or BMI. At a BMI of 30, most women are considered obese. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists suggests obese women gain between 11 and 20 pounds during their entire pregnancy. However, women who are severely obese, with a BMI of 40 or more, may be advised to lose weight.
Nutrition During Early Pregnancy
During gestation, women require extra calories so their babies grow and develop. The baby's specific needs differ from stage to stage. During the first trimester, the average woman doesn't require many extra calories at all. An obese woman should focus on maintaining close to her current caloric intake during the first trimester; however, she should take a closer look at nutrition. Some key nutrients for the first trimester include iron and folic acid. Because blood volume increases early on in pregnancy, increased iron levels are necessary to prevent anemia. Folic acid is important during the early formation of the brain and spinal cord, and may decrease the risk for preterm delivery. The Mayo Clinic recommends spinach and fortified cereals early on in pregnancy, as both are high in iron and folic acid.
Late Pregnancy Nutrition
During the second and third trimester, a woman's caloric needs increase as her baby gains in size. For obese women who are not expected to lose weight, most weight gain will take place during these two pregnancy stages. She can expect to need anywhere from 100 to 300 extra calories per day. In addition to folic acid and iron, protein and calcium become important components of the pregnancy diet. Some suggested nutrient-rich foods for the second and third trimesters include eggs, low-fat cottage cheese, leafy greens and skim milk.
Dietary Advice for Obese Pregnant Women
Most obese women can keep their weight in check during their pregnancies by monitoring their diet, focusing on nutrient-rich food that is low in excess calories and saturated fat. Fruits and vegetables are high priorities in any pregnancy diet, and can help obese women keep their weight down even as their appetites go up. In addition, the Mayo Clinic also advises pregnant women focus on lean meats, low-fat dairy products, beans and fish low in mercury. All are low in calories, high in nutrients and satisfying to the appetite. Weighing in at regular intervals can help obese women stay on track during their pregnancies, making changes as needed.
Expert Insight: When is it Necessary?
Obese women who have a BMI of 40 or more, or those with medical complications such as diabetes or hypertension, may need an expert to plan their pregnancy diet. In these cases, an obstetrician may recommend a nutritionist. Making a specialized diet plan for the next nine months can help a mother-to-be stay on track with weight gain or loss, compensate for pre-existing medical conditions and ensure adequate nutrition for the developing baby.
