For many women, pregnancy is a time of joy and anticipation, but it can also bring concerns about weight gain and the impact on maternal and fetal health. Although weight gain is a natural and expected part of pregnancy, excessive weight gain can lead to complications such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, preterm birth, and postpartum weight retention. In this article, we will explore some common misconceptions and the truth about weight loss during pregnancy, as shared by health experts.
Misconception: You should aim to lose weight during pregnancy
According to Dr. Darcy Fehlings, a pediatric neurologist at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, weight loss is not an appropriate goal during pregnancy. “Your body is naturally going to put on weight because there’s a baby inside,” she says. “The key is to put on an appropriate amount of weight, which is going to be different for each person depending on their pre-pregnancy weight.”
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends that women with a healthy pre-pregnancy weight gain between 25 and 35 pounds during pregnancy. Women who are underweight should gain more, while those who are overweight or obese should gain less.
Misconception: You can eat anything you want during pregnancy
While it’s true that pregnant women may experience food cravings and increased hunger, it’s important to maintain a balanced diet to support fetal development and prevent excessive weight gain. Registered dietitian nutritionist Patricia Bannan advises expectant mothers to focus on nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats.
“Make sure your plate is half vegetables, a quarter protein, and a quarter healthy starch,” Bannan says. “If you’re craving something sweet, try fruit or yogurt instead of a sugary snack.”
Misconception: You can lose weight after delivery by breastfeeding alone
Breastfeeding has many benefits for both mother and baby, including aiding in postpartum weight loss. However, Dr. Fehlings stresses that breastfeeding alone is not a reliable method of weight loss. “Initially, you will lose weight from delivering the baby and the placenta, and then the water weight will start to come off,” she explains. “But losing weight in a healthy way takes time and effort.”
Experts recommend waiting until six weeks postpartum before starting a weight loss program to allow time for the body to heal and adjust to life with a newborn. It’s also important to avoid fad diets, excessive exercise, or any weight loss product that hasn’t been approved by a healthcare provider.
To wrap up, pregnancy is a unique and special time in a woman’s life, and weight gain is a natural part of the process. By focusing on balanced nutrition and healthy habits, expectant mothers can help to reduce the risk of complications and support optimal fetal development. And remember, it’s never too late to make positive changes – seeking guidance from a healthcare provider can help you navigate the challenges of weight management during pregnancy with confidence.