Weight Gain

Weight gain is one of the most notable changes in pregnancy. After all, healthy fetus development and growth requires increased food intake what manifests itself in enlargement of the belly but frequently pregnant women get few extra pounds also elsewhere. However, to provide optimal conditions to the developing fetus there is no need to overreact with food and much less to eat for two. In general, a pregnant woman should eat as much as she feels she needs to but besides quantity it is also important to pay attention to quality of food and balance of nutrients which are necessary for healthy development of the fetus.

It is generally known that malnutrition and insufficient weight gain can have serious consequences and result in series birth defects. For that reason many women feel more calm if gaining few pounds more than the recommended 22-26 pounds (10-12 kilograms). However, excess weight gain does not only cause great difficulties for many women after labour but frequently also worsens some complaints during pregnancy, especially stretch marks and back pain. On the other hand, excess weight can also represent certain risks both for pregnant woman and the fetus. For that reason it is recommendable to control weight during pregnancy with heathy diet which has in general less fat and with regular exercise which must be adjusted to pregnancy. Women who had problems with excessive weight or eating disorders before pregnancy should be especially careful or seek a professional advice to avoid eventual complications and disordered eating.