Can I Lose Weight While Pregnant?

Today, I want to chat about pregnancy and the questions some women ask about weight loss. It's not safe to lose weight while pregnant because you want to diet; or are concerned about your body image.

I want you to embrace your body and how it is changing to be able to carry your growing baby.

There are exceptions when you will lose weight during pregnancy or gain more weight than normal. Your midwife or doctor will carefully monitor your weight loss or weight gain and advise you accordingly.

We know that losing weight during pregnancy isn't ideal with growing a healthy baby. The other aspect about this is that if you are losing weight, you may not be getting all the required nutrients and calories for a healthy pregnancy.

Can I Lose Weight While Pregnant?

Another question I get is 'Can I Burn Fat when Pregnant?' Again, you should not be trying to burn fat or lose weight while pregnant. Your body is also growing to support your growing baby. If you're extremely overweight and pregnant, your doctor may provide you with a guided exercise plan and diet to help you achieve a healthy weight.

What if I lose weight in early pregnancy?

There will be times and valid, normal reasons you will lose wight in early pregnancy. This weight loss could be due to:

1. A healthier lifestyle. Carrying a baby can motivate some mamas to pursue healthier lifestyle choices that they may not have done before getting pregnant. Maybe you are losing or maintaining a healthy weight because your are exercising and eating healthier foods.

2. Morning sickness. In your first trimester, it's common to lose weight due to morning sickness. Having that feeling of nausea can diminish your appetite. And if you are vomiting; this can cause you to lose out on calories. Don't worry, your baby will get all the necessary calories and nutrients they need at this point.

If you are losing a lot of weight make sure you tell your doctor. They should also pick up on this during your regular prenatal check-ups.

Can I diet to lose weight during pregnancy?

It is important to note that your body will change more during your pregnancy than at any other time. Now is not the time to go on a weight-loss diet. Your priority is to maintain a healthy body for both you and your growing baby.

Restricting your food intake is potentially harmful to both you and your developing baby. Your diet should contain all the healthy food options to provide you with the required calories and nutrients you need.

So if you are presented with a weight loss ad in your online searches, please ignore it and move on. Also, ignore those so-called influencers who are showing off their bodies trying to promote an unhealthy pregnancy body.

Our PregActive App

To download ourFREE PregActive Pregnancy APPgo to theApple APP store or the Google APP store and search for 'PregActive.'

Warning Signs for Weight loss during pregnancy

While some weight loss early on in the first trimester may be normal; losing weight in the second or third trimester can be a sign of a problem you need to discuss with your doctor.

My goal has always been to look after YOU!

There is so much help out there for parenting or looking after your baby. But I have been helping pregnant and mamas for over ten years to stay fit and health during pregnancy and to re-gain their body confidence postpartum.

Pregnancy and weight loss

It's a topic that's often shrouded in mystery and misconception. As an expectant mother, it's natural to wonder whether it's safe to lose weight during pregnancy, and if so, how to go about it.

But before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let's address the elephant in the room: the societal pressures and expectations placed on pregnant women regarding their weight.

Ignore the Celebrities

Let's face it, we've all seen those unrealistic celebrity pregnancy bodies splashed across social media, making it seem like gaining a few extra pounds is some kind of cardinal sin.

And it's not just the media!

Even well-meaning friends and family can make comments that make you feel like you're not doing pregnancy "right." But the truth is, excessive weight gain during pregnancy can have serious health implications for both mom and baby, including gestational diabetes and high blood pressure.

Ignore the Pressure

This pressure to conform to an unattainable beauty standard can be overwhelming, and it's no wonder that many pregnant women feel anxious about their weight.

But here's the thing: your body is not a temple, it's a vessel for your growing baby, and it's okay to put on a few pounds. In fact, it's essential for your baby's growth and development.

The key is finding a healthy balance between weight management and self-care. It's not about shedding pounds for the sake of aesthetics; it's about maintaining a healthy lifestyle that supports your overall well-being and that of your baby.

So, how do you achieve this balance?

The first step is to focus on nutrition. Eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables will provide your body with the necessary nutrients to support your baby's growth. It's also essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

Exercise is also crucial for maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy. Now, I know what you're thinking - isn't exercise a no-no during pregnancy?

Not necessarily. In fact, gentle exercises like yoga and walking during pregnancy can help improve circulation, reduce stress, and even alleviate symptoms like lower back pain.

Chat to Your Doctor

But before you start any new exercise routine, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help you create a personalized plan that takes into account any health concerns or physical limitations you may have.

It's also important to remember that weight management during pregnancy is not just about shedding pounds; it's about maintaining a healthy lifestyle that supports your overall well-being and that of your baby.

It's about listening to your body and honoring its needs, rather than trying to conform to an unrealistic beauty standard.

Weight Management during Pregnancy

In reality, weight management during pregnancy is a complex issue that requires a nuanced approach. It's not just about cutting calories or exercising more; it's about adopting a holistic approach that prioritizes your physical and emotional well-being.

So, what's the takeaway?

Healthy weight management during pregnancy is not about achieving some kind of unrealistic beauty standard; it's about making conscious choices that support your overall well-being and that of your baby.