During pregnancy, weight gain is a natural and necessary part of the process. It’s normal to put on a few extra pounds. But how much exactly? Well, that depends on your weight and height before getting pregnant.
According to experts from Harvard Medical School, the amount of weight you should gain varies:
- If you were below your ideal weight before pregnancy, you’ll need to gain between 12 and 18 kilograms (26 to 40 pounds).
- If you had an average or ideal weight, the goal is to gain between 11 and 16 kilograms (25 to 35 pounds).
- Around 50% of women exceed these recommendations, so don’t worry if you go a little overboard.
These recommendations are intended to ensure your wellbeing and your baby’s health. However, remember that every woman is unique, and there may be special circumstances that require the attention of a healthcare professional.
Why do we gain weight during pregnancy?
There are several reasons! The baby is growing, so their weight counts. We also have some extra fat reserves that help us during breastfeeding. And let’s not forget those cravings and typical pregnancy anxieties – they add up too! Don’t worry if you exceed the recommendations a little, it won’t do any harm. However, in some cases, excessive weight gain could bring complications during pregnancy or childbirth. Make sure you’re getting monitored by your doctor in this regard.
To maintain the appropriate weight during pregnancy, it’s important to watch what you eat and maintain an exercise routine suitable for your physical and mental conditions. Remember, it’s not just about quantity – the quality of the food matters too! Eat fruits, vegetables, and proteins to ensure your baby is getting the necessary nutrients. And if you have cravings, we suggest combining them with something healthy. For example, if you’re craving chocolate, try some chocolate-covered strawberries. This way, you satisfy your cravings and give something nutritious to your baby.
So go ahead, eat nutritiously and healthily! Remember, your diet is key to your baby’s healthy development.
