Managing Pregnancy Weight Gain Through the Holidays

Wednesday, December 23, 2009 21:04

The holidays present a challenge to anyone who is trying to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle, but being pregnant during the holidays can make life even more challenging. Between cravings and the abundance of holiday goodies, it can be easy to pack on the pounds. On the other hand, if you’re struggling with morning sickness, all the smells of holiday food can totally push you over the edge.

Personally, I’ve managed to be pregnant over the holidays three separate times. Each time, I was in the third trimester, and feeling pretty well, so I was game for a treat or two (or more . . . ).

Pregnancy weight gain is important because gaining too little weight puts women at increased risk of having a low birthweight baby. On the other hand, gaining too much weight during pregnancy can cause a baby to grow too large, and can increase a woman’s risk for certain pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes. A woman who starts her pregnancy at a healthy weight should ideally gain 25-35 pounds during the course of her pregnancy. Women who are underweight, or are carrying multiples are usually advised to gain a little more. Women who are overweight or obese when they become pregnant should gain less, depending on how heavy they are when they conceive.

It’s best to put on weight slowly and evenly throughout pregnancy. To achieve this goal, most women need to take in somewhere around 300 additional calories each day. A balanced diet in combination with prenatal vitamins will help ensure that mom and baby both stay healthy.

If you’d like to learn more, this video of Dr. Shiobhan Dolan will take you on a walk through the grocery store to explain the nutritional needs of a pregnant woman.

In the end, eating sensibly during the holidays is the best way make sure you maintain a healthy weight. If you’re prone to eating a few too many snacks or sweets, eat a healthy snack before you head out to holiday celebrations. Then, while you’re out, think before you choose your snacks and meals.

One Response to “Managing Pregnancy Weight Gain Through the Holidays”

Cure Panic Attacks says:

December 28th, 2009 at 12:29 pm

Great information for all pregnant women to follow during the holidays. Lord knows we don’t need any pregnant women suffering from any kinds of depression, stress, anxiety-panic attacks during this haapy time of the year. Great article post keep up the good work