Shedding the Pre-baby Pounds:5 Expert Tips For Losing Weight While Pregnant
Most women pack on the pounds while pregnant, but for health reasons, some moms-to-be need to take off the weight. Whether it's due to obesity or other health risks, burning calories while with child isn't always easy. We asked Dr. Yvonne Thornton, a Double-Board Certified Specialist in Obstetrics, Gynecology and Maternal-Fetal Medicine and mother of two, for general guidelines on how expectant women can shed the excess weight safely. Here are her tips.
1. Food Diary
Write down in a food diary everything that you eat and drink daily. "Selective amnesia" (by not recording one's intake) has led to excessive weight gain.
2. Exercise Daily
One-half hour of walking per day. Exercise, especially with a personal trainer is encouraged during pregnancy to keep extremities, heart and lungs fit. Swimming is another good exercise. Pregnant women should not water ski, high dive or participate in martial arts.
3. Keep Hydrated
Two quarts of water per day and one quart of skimmed milk per day. Three quarts of fluid will decrease hunger and keep you well-hydrated. A dehydrated pregnant woman is more likely to experience preterm contractions and preterm labor.
4. Eat Fish
Consume more fish per day. Studies have shown that increase in fish intake improves neurodevelopment and intellect in the offspring. The FDA recommends that pregnant women eat 12 ounces of fish per week. Shrimp, haddock, salmon, pollock and tilapia have very low or undetectable mercury levels and should be consumed without concern for health risks. Avoid mackerel, tilefish, shark or swordfish.
5. Avoid Cold Cuts
Avoid cold cuts, processed and precooked meats such as bologna, salami, hot dogs. They contain high sodium (salt) levels and they may be a source of listeriosis infection during pregnancy.
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