Are the two inseparably connected? Ever wonder exactly how what to eat while pregnant for the healthiest pregnancy ends up being bad for you in post-pregnancy? Much of real nutritional pregnancy eating is unknown, misunderstood, or just flat out ignored. Knowing the answers to what, why, where and how of the best pregnancy diet can help you maintain a healthy weight gain during pregnancy and a swift return to a healthy weight postpartum.
The first thing that should be understood is that there is no magic number of pregnancy pounds that is right for all women. Instead of focusing on the scale’s readings, pay close attention to what to eat while pregnant. Focus on the food you eat rather than how much you are eating.
Weight Gain during Pregnancy Varies for the Individual
The actual amount of weight needed to be gained or lost during pregnancy varies widely. The easy answer is that most pregnant women are told to expect a weight gain of between 25 and 30 pounds. This poundage may need to increase or decrease, depending on the mother’s pre-pregnancy weight. Some women actually lose weight during pregnancy, resulting in a healthy birth, baby and mother.
Where does the Extra Weight Come from?
How much to gain is less important than the choices mothers make about what to eat while pregnant. The diet during those nine months of pregnancy will naturally result in weight gain. When mothers-to-be eat healthy food options in the correct portion sizes for their pregnancy, then the net weight gain or loss will be what the body and baby need it to be.
The diet for post-pregnancy, which follows naturally on the heels of nutritious pregnancy meal plans, is also more likely to healthfully encourage a return to optimum weight.
How to Gain and Lose Weight during Pregnancy
The body knows how to distribute pregnancy weight, the bulk of which comes from the baby, elevated fluid levels and the increased size of breasts and uterus. There will be some fat storage, but it only accounts for 3-5 pounds. Poor nutrition during pregnancy is the real culprit behind pregnancy pounds beyond this amount.
To ensure only the best meal choices, prioritize meals and snacks featuring vegetables, fruits and quality proteins. Processed foods, sugar-free snacks, and chemical-laden food should be avoided during pregnancy and afterwards.
A proper diet for post pregnancy will not deviate very far from the healthy food choices made during pregnancy. Eating whole foods close to their natural source supports lactation as well as encourages the body to relieve itself of any excess weight.