Weight gain is inevitable during pregnancy. Most women pile fat in the midsection to provide an environment conductive to the growth of the fetus. A gain of 25-35 pounds is healthy during the nine months of childbearing. However, more than this spells trouble. It not only increases the risk of pregnancy complications but also makes it difficult to lose weight fast after your little one is born.
With hunger cravings in full swing and lack of energy to exercise, it is often hard for an expectant woman to keep the pounds from creeping in. If you are stuck in a similar situation, don't despair! In fact, you're in luck. We give 5 tips to manage weight gain during pregnancy.
1. Eat for Two - It is a Myth
During pregnancy, the body needs nutrients for itself as well as the fetus developing within the womb. However, this does not mean doubling your daily calorie intake. The recommended increase is 300 calories (overweight) and 500 calories (underweight) more that what you would normally eat.
2. Healthy Substitutes for Food Cravings
Food cravings set in after the first trimester, when morning sickness has subsided. You crave for ice cream, candies, fried and salted snacks. While you're pardoned to eat these food items during pregnancy, it is not the healthiest option as far as controlling weight gain is concerned. Eat fruits, nuts and whole-grain crackers as a healthy substitute for food cravings. You can treat yourself with ice cream once a while. Plan your meals in advance to ensure you do not overeat
3. Choose Healthy Food Groups
When it comes to main meals such as breakfast, lunch and dinner, choose healthy options such as protein-rich, low-fat and fibrous foods. Eat a lot of fruits and veggies. Cut you intake of fat, salt and sugar. You should avoid skipping meals as it will cause overeating at a later time. If you plan to eat out, try to check the nutritional value of foods served at the restaurant. Many restaurants and eateries provide detailed menus with nutritional facts on their website. Try as much as possible to eat home-cooked foods.
4. Stay Hydrated
Often, thirst is misinterpreted as hunger. Hence, make sure you are drinking enough of water in addition to eating nutritious foods. You should drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
5. Stay Active
Fatigue, morning sickness, a decreased sense of balance and muscle pain are some of the reasons expectant women stay away from exercise. However, exercising is as important as eating healthy if you want to keep a tab on your weight. You can opt for low-impact exercises that won't drain your of energy. Activities you can perform are walking, swimming and biking. Prenatal yoga is a great way to stay active. In addition to keeping you fit and in shape, it also helps the body prepare for delivery. You should start an exercise program only after consulting a doctor.
So, work a little harder and eat a little less to lose weight for yourself and your baby.
Imagine how would your life be if you were a sexy mom with no
excess fat? What if all men would admire your? To learn exactly how a 35
years old mom lost 70 pounds of fat after hew last pregnancy and to
learn how to prevent gaining lots of weight and still be healthy, just
watch this video to Learn how to do it: Weight loss for women
