1. Put on Those Pounds
Even though you gain weight during pregnancy, it doesn't give you free rein to gain all that you want. In fact, how much you should gain during pregnancy depends on your body mass index (BMI) before conception. If you have a healthy BMI, feel free to gain 25 to 35 pounds. Women who were underweight before pregnancy should gain 28 to 40 pounds, and women who were overweight before pregnancy should limit weight gain to 15 to 25 pounds. If you are having twins, gain 35 to 45 pounds no matter what your weight was before pregnancy.
2. Not a Time to Diet
Your pregnancy diet looks a lot different from your weight loss diet. Even if you were overweight at the time of conception, now is not the time to continue your weight loss efforts. When you cut your calories, you also cut calories to your growing baby. Instead of dieting during pregnancy, use this opportunity to make healthy lifestyle changes that help you eat healthier after pregnancy.
3. Eat More Often, not Always More
Pregnancy weight gain is healthy, but it does come with aches and pains. The most common complaint is backaches, mostly due to your growing belly. You might also experience a sense of clumsiness because your center of gravity shifts and your legs will sometimes get sore from hauling the weight around. You can also expect swollen legs and ankles, but that's actually not a result of weight gain. Instead, increased blood and fluids in your body cause it. If you notice swelling in your hands or your face, it could be a sign of preeclampsia and you need to call your doctor immediately.
4. Know the Calorie Needs
The average pregnant woman needs only 300 additional calories every day to support her growing body and her growing baby. That adds to half a sandwich or one cup of low-fat milk. Even though you're not eating a whole lot more, you'll find your pregnancy weight gain goes more smoothly if you eat more often. Eating five or six smaller meals every day instead of three large meals helps ward off heartburn, nausea and unhealthy cravings. It also provides your baby the consistent nutrition he needs.
5. Craving Control
You might find yourself craving pickles and ice cream, but if you really allow yourself to splurge, your weight will soar. Instead, look for healthy alternatives. Graham crackers are a great alternative to cookies and frozen yogurt is much healthier than ice cream. If you must give in to your unhealthy cravings, think moderation. One cookie usually satisfies your sweet tooth just as well as ten cookies. No matter how intense your cravings are, never eat foods that are unhealthy for you or your growing baby.
