How To Prevent Excess Pregnancy Weight Gain

Mar 26, 2017 2290 0 0

How to prevent excess pregnancy weight gain? Ahh, what every pregnant woman is concerned about. Aside from me worrying if my baby is ok this is the top worry I am constantly thinking about. I’m sure you’ve heard the age old saying of “now that you’re pregnant you’re eating for two.” Umm, hello! Can I just tell you how CRAZY that sounds! That little baby inside of you IS NOT a full grown human- so at NO point in your pregnancy should you be consuming enough calories for two people. Did you know that really at most you only need about 300 calories extra (500 at most) at this is in the last trimester of your pregnancy. YES, you should be healthy and give in to a craving when you have it but do not, I REPEAT do not ever go overboard. There is a huge difference between one cookie and a whole box!

Obviously, its essential to gain weight during pregnancy in order to sustain your baby’s life and bring a beautiful healthy baby into this world. I myself still struggle with the fact that I am gaining weight. I am 18 weeks tomorrow and have gain 6 lbs so far and the weight I see on the scale is the most I have ever seen in my life! That being said, I have to keep reminding myself that it’s not just me anymore. Between extra blood volume, larger breasts (ok yea, I’ll take that 😉 ) amniotic sac/ fluid and of course baby there is so much going on inside of me other than just me and the body that I am used to operating with. Having this attitude really helps to make the process easier and more enjoyable. When I think about my little baby growing inside of me it makes me so happy to know that the nutrients I’m putting in my body and the LB’s that are adding on are all going to my little bundle of joy! This whole process is all about having the right mindset and attitude my friends! So embrace the extra pounds and know that you baby is thanking you for it!

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(17 weeks here)

Pregnancy Nutrition Tips

PPF

For me, the best and easiest way to eat is more frequently but in smaller meals. I notice when I eat larger meals I become more bloated and super uncomfortable. Even just noshing on smart snacks like carrots and celery with peanut butter or banana and almond butter are great to keep on hand in between meals. When I eat (breakfast/ lunch/ dinner) I am eating in smaller portions that allow me not to become full after each meal. I stick to my protein, veggies and healthy fats but friends- I do allow myself to indulge when I feel like it. Now when I say indulge I mean always in a moderate way- I enjoy that piece of dark chocolate and move on. I feel like I have had such a great pregnancy so far because I am feeding my body and baby what it needs, my workouts are still on average 6 days a week and I am keeping a super positive mindset on this whole new journey I am embarking on. I tell you this, because you too can do this. I am not different than you! All it takes is a positive mind set, embracing your pregnancy and all the changes, and planning so that you always have healthy options available.

I know this time can be confusing and that you have probably heard so many things, or maybe no one has even spoken to you about the proper way to eat during pregnancy. This is important so that you don’t gain EXCESS WEIGHT and are able to feel good and comfortable but also so that it’s good for your BABY too.

Preventing Excess Pregnancy Weight Gain

Have the right mind set.
Exercise.
Embrace your pregnancy and the changes in your body that come with it.
Eat a healthy meal every 2-3 hours.
Snack Smarter- never let yourself get hungry.
Plan and prepare healthy meals so that your kitchen is always stocked with good options.
Always carry healthy meals and snacks with you when on the go.
Drink a lot of water.