How to Look After Your Weight During Pregnancy

Finding out you’re expecting a new baby can be a joyous occasion, but during the 9 months you’re carrying your child, you are completely responsible for their health and well-being. It is important, for both your well-being and your baby’s, to maintain a healthy weight throughout pregnancy to ensure they are as healthy as can be when the due date finally arrives. Here are a few top tips to help you look after your weight during pregnancy.

• Get Professional Advice

Antenatal care is incredibly important for expectant mothers. This type of care will help ensure both mother and baby are in good health throughout the pregnancy journey. London Pregnancy Clinic is based in the centre of London, and they offer a comprehensive, private Pregnancy Care package. You can find out more details by visiting their website, londonpregnancy.com. This package covers 3D and 4D scans, consultations, and on-call access to their obstetric consultant. This means you can get guidance and reassurance during every step of your journey.

• Monitor Your Weight

Weight gain can vary significantly depending on the person. Most people gain between 10kg to 12.5kg during their pregnancy. It is a natural occurrence in pregnant women, but it is important to keep an eye on it. Gaining too much or too little weight can result in health issues for you and your baby. Gaining too much weight can elevate your blood pressure, and increase your chance of developing gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia. Gaining too little could lead to premature birth, and you could also end up giving birth to a newborn with a low birth weight. Consult your healthcare consultant if you’re worried about your weight, as they can give you the best advice about how to maintain your weight.

• Create a Meal Plan

Creating a meal plan is a great way to maintain a healthy pregnancy weight. It can also help you save money too. Thinking about what you’re going to eat for dinner the week before will ensure you buy enough groceries during your weekly shopping. In turn, you will be less likely to splurge on a last-minute takeaway or a quick, processed meal. Make sure you incorporate snacks. Eating little and often can help keep your blood sugar at an optimum level, and it can also ward off pregnancy sickness.

• Reduce Junk Food Consumption

Although you might feel tempted by fast food during pregnancy, it is a good idea to focus on healthy food options and reduce your junk food consumption. Replacing unhealthy food in your home with a healthy alternative can make a huge difference. Fresh fruit and crackers are good options to satiate hunger throughout the day. However, if you’re craving some junk food, it’s okay to cave in if it’s only on occasion.

• Stay Active

Staying active can help ward off excess weight, and it can improve mental health too. If you are a typically active person, it’s okay to carry on with the same activity level as before. Otherwise, you can try to build up your activity level until you find yourself active for at least 30 minutes a day.