Pregnant and Fitness in First Trimester

If you were active before the pregnancy, you can continue the same rountine & modify it as the pregnany progresses--in my opinion I would increase my water, increase fuits & veggies---& nuts by the way are ggod for you in moderation, but have a very high fat content. Just by making a few small changes, you can shed some weight & if given the OK from your physician, I would walk everyday or at least Monday thru Friday. I am currently pregnant & am very high risk--so until last week (25) weeks I was not allowed to do anything physical. Needless to say I packed on some pounds quickly--I started getting severe charlie horses in my legs, so they increased my water, calcium & potassium & I asked the doctor if I could walk everyday & they said I could, I have never felt better--my first child came 3 1/2 months early, so I definately dont want to risk that this time. Good luck & if you watch what your eating & maybe even journal it, it will make you more in tune with the nutritional values.

PS Please dont feel your weight caused the pre-mature delivery, there is already so much guilt you feel for not being able to carry full term. I personally was in the best shape of my life when I had problems with my pregnancy, so please above all else I have written, get that guilt about your weight out of your mind regarding the premature delivery. Just try to eat nutriciously & walk everyday---I was a size 4 and am 5"8 & worked out 6 days a week including when I was pregnant with my first (of course more moderately) & I had my baby at 27 weeks, so please dont feel that guilt in addition to the guilt that accompanies a pre-mature birth...boy I wish I had a chance to speak with your doctor!

1 mom found this helpful

Hi S.,

First of all, congratulations on your pregnancy!!! Also, I applaud you for wanting to take care of YOU!

I, too, am overweight, and have found that in the past, eating right with exercise has helped me get fit. With my first child I barely gained any weight because the baby was taking what it needed from my reserves (I think I gained 5 lbs overall). Other things that have really helped me: eating fruits & veggies (healthy food choices in general), drinking lots of water (not too much, though, as that can be bad), taking vitamins, not eating anything past 8pm at night, eating more often (raises your metabolism), no fast food (or if I had to eat fast food, make it a healthier choice like a grilled chicken, or salad with a lower calorie dressing, etc...). I'd snack on nuts, apples dipped in peanut butter, healthy things in between meals.

They say to be careful when starting exercise in the first trimester of pregnancy, talk with your doctor about what might be safe for you. I know at some point you cannot do sit-ups or any exercise that makes you lie on your back (the weight of the uterus can hurt the baby??? Ask your doc about this). If you have access to a treadmill during these crummy weather months, gentle, slow walking is better than none at all. I started out doing 20 minutes on the treadmill and was doing 1/2 mile at first. Over a few months, I worked up to one mile in that same 20 minutes. It made me strong and built up muscles I needed for labor & delivery. Or, if you have stairs, walking up and down them is good for you, too (unless you have pregnancy complications)! I also loved my prenatal yoga class - it's nice and slow, and you can take it even if you've never done yoga before.

Don't forget that muscle weighs more than fat, so if at first you lose some weight, then gain some back, don't be discouraged, it's normal!

Good luck!!! You can do this! :-)
M.

Hi S.-

I am a certified perinatal trainer and Master Trainer from Healthy Moms(R) Fitness www.healthymomsfitness.com and specialize in maternal and child health. Unfortunately, you cannot and should not try to lose weight during your pregnancy, but you can control how much you gain during your pregnancy by eating healthy. Watch how many nuts and seeds you eat, while healthy, too much can be too much fat too. If you do eat nuts, aim to eat raw sunflower seeds, raw pumpkin seeds, raw almonds, the processed nuts is the ones that can cause nut/peanut allergy later in the child's life. Avocados are an excellent source of fat as well as hummus. Eating within the first hour upon awakening, then every 2-3 hrs after that eating three meals and at least two snacks per day. Also, drinking at least 2L of water is ideal. Baked potatoes are an excellent source of potassium (more than a banana) and has 4g of fiber, put some salsa on it with a little avocado and you have yourself an ideal snack. You should aim to eat at least 2 baked potatoes per week during pregnancy, white or sweet. Smoothies, soups, there are a lot of ways to eat healthy and have a super healthy baby w/o the extra weight gain! :)

Contact me if you'd like more info.

J. W. MPH, ACE-CPT
Wellness Educator

S.

http://www.letsdolunch.com/
This would be great for you. It is very simple meals and it would be extremely healthy for you and the baby. You need to make sure you get the correct nutritients. There is a book and recipes and the food is good healthy and balanced and you will lose weight in a healthy way. The recipes are simple and easy and you can get the food at Sams for Jewel etc... Get on a good vitaminsupplement. Check out www.chews4health.com/mrcc These are made from food sources and are formulated by a ChiroPracter and are awesome.

Please let me know if you have any questions. Also walk as much as possible. You can go to indoor malls or park district with tracks.

Blesssings
Marge

Hi S.!

I completely understand your concern w/#2; considering #1. I was that way with #1 & 2. I had a miscarriage before #1 and was very cautious with the other 2. However, by the 3rd I was working out for my whole pregnancy up until 1-2wks before delivery. Matter of fact, it is the first pregnancy where I ended up having to gain weight after having a baby. I lost 10 lbs. Started pregnancy at 110 and wk before delivery weighed 110. My daughter came out weighing 6 lbs 3 oz.
I watched how much and what I ate through the whole pregnancy...it is possible. First of all one thing that was told to me during my 1st pregnancy was to stay away from EMPTY CALORIES. Calories that are not giving you or the baby any nutrition...potato chips, brownies, white bread, candy, soda, etc.

Suggestions:
Yes, fruit & vegetables - lots. With the veggies more nutrituion if you eat them raw. Lots of salads with low cal dressings...Trader Joes has a great ranch & raspberry dressing. Try making veggie trays...my kids love them.
Stay away from white bread, white rice. Eat whole wheat, brown rice (high fibers).
Eat lots of high fiber & high protein foods...kashi cereal, Trader Joes has great high fiber low cal/fat cereals. Again raw veggies, salads, cabbage, different crackers.
Always eat breakfast! Don't over eat at your 3 meals and eat healthy snacks in between. I feel like I eat all day but it's the best thing for you...especeially being pregnant.

If you want any more tidbit info...let me know.

Good luck...it's possible & still healthy for you & baby!
C.

my sister in law is a dietician and if you're interested i can give you her email address. continue to think about eveything that you eat, try to eat as healthy as possible and move as much as you can take a walk each day even in the cold bundle up and go the fresh air will be good for you and your child. dont be hard on yourself you are trying. if you mess up like we all do, just start over. being healthy so that you are around for your kids is the best motivation.

I'm reading a great book EATING FOR LIFE...it's a very realistic way to eat well and lose weight. Bill Phillips wrote it. BTW I just delivered my 5th baby and I was obese to begin with...I steadily lost about20 lbs throughout teh 9 mmonths and baby was born healthy:) Not to worry....
Take care,
Hilarie

There is a diet called eat like a pig & look like a twig. It basically says to only eat fresh things, nothing that is packaged. It says you can eat as much as you want using this guideline. I would talk with a nutritionist & a personal trainer as well.

What an exciting change for you!

I hope this helps ... I am speaking from my mom's experience of recently losing a significant amount of weight. There were two things that she did this time that said helped her with her lifestyle change: what she calls "moving" for 60 minutes non-stop everyday -- on a treadmill, at a mall, around the block, "taking a class" on the exercise channel on TV -- and by finding a new "reward system." She said she used to eat food as a reward and a comfort. Now for a reward, she tries an "active-ity" that enables her to get out of the house and is fun like, bowling, antiquing, coming over to play with my daughter, playing cards with friends, or seeing a movie (no treats).

I hope this helps and that you are successful in your efforts! You are an inspiration!!

S.,
Congrats! I am a member at the YMCA in Glen Ellyn and I saw that they are running a program with a dietician, a wellness program. I didn't look at the flyer extensively, but it looks like you meet with her individually and discuss goals, she then gives you ideas or a program to begin. There phone number is ###-###-####. I don't know the name of the program so you'll have to inquire. Good Luck!

I would start by walking five days a week for the exercise component. As for the weight loss, I would become a label reader and cut down on sugar. With my first child I was borderline gestational diabetes and with my second I was full blown gestational diabetes. With my first, once I got my sugar under control, I actually lost weight. With my second, because I was so diligent about watching my sugar, I had a hard time gaining weight. If I were in your situation, I would make an appointment with a nutritionist to get you on the right track. Good luck!

Hello S.,

I want to say good for you!! I was three pounds lighter when I was nine months prego as I was when I got pregnant. I got a lot of flack from my girlfriend who was three months behind me because I wasn't giving my baby "fresh" calories. It's not like I wasnt eating. I just made everything I ate really count. I too was obese. I think I still am but just not so much. I'm 5'5" and about 200lbs. Im muscular and have big boobs, so that takes up a lot. Anyway, here is my experience.

I completely changed my eating habits. When I found out I was pregnant I suddenly realized that it wasnt just me anymore. I started drinking a lot of water, filled my diet with more fresh and raw fruits and veggies, limited my meat intake (lean meats, chicken, or fish only about 2x per week). I also incorporated a morning glass of metamucil to help keep everything moving properly. I also started exercising. I joined an aquafitness class at my local park district. The water arobics class was one hour 2x per week. I added prenatal yoga once a week in about month 5. I walked as much as possible and was sure to eat three small meals per day and a small very healthy snack at night before bed.

It was during month 5 that I lost 12 lbs. I ended up gaining most of it back, but I didnt gain more than I lost. When all was said and done, two weeks after I had my son, I was 25 lbs lighter than when I started. I have said recently that the best diet I ever went on was my pregnancy! My doctor and I monitored my weight carefully and she supported my efforts. She was very proud of me that I didn't gain any weight. At my 6 week check up she complemented me and said she new I could do it. Mt son is healthy, and was at birth. He was a great size, 7lbs 3 oz, very easy to push out. I absolutly encourage you to manage your weight during your pregnancy. The baby might give you just the right motivation you need to implement lasting changes. I also started eating more local, organic and natural products during my pregnancym, but I don't think that had anything to do with my weight loss.

Feel free to contact me for support, advise, help....whatever you need. also....definately breastfeed. It helps you keep weight off and loose even a bit more!

Enjoy your pregnancy, its the best time of your life.
-S.

Hello and first...Congratulations!!!! I also am expecting my second and I am 5 weeks! If you are in the Schaumburg area I had a personal trainer who now works at Bally's (I believe he is at the one off Schaumburg Road) and his name is Billy Rose. I used to train with him at another gym. He does Body Conditioning, which uses your own body weight and resistance. He will also use some machines, but mainly your own body weight. If there is something he tell you to do that you are unable (I have a health condition so there were a few things I was unable to do) he will have another move for you that will work the same muscles. He is FANTASTIC! I was heart broken when he went to Bally's since I have a membership somewhere else. I lost 15 pounds in only a few months (before I got pregnant). Just make sure to check with your doctor if there are exercises you shouldn't do while pregnant because if you haven't been exercising pre-pregnancy, then there are some moves you should avoid. If you decide to go with him, tell him D. sent you! (I don't get anything from it, but just want to let him know how awesome of a trainer he is!)

For your diet, the simple foods are best - fruit, veggies, lean meats and fish (be careful which kids because of the mercury content with being pregnant), and whole grains. Avoid pop, too much sugar, high fat, fried foods...basically everything that they tell you we all should be eating anyway. Easier said than done when pregnant and constantly hungry! My tip is to make sure you drink your 8 glasses of water a day and eat higher fiber foods - this help in two ways, it combats hunger and it helps with the bloating and constipation of pregnancy!

Well, hope all the info helps! Congrats again and good luck!!!

I just wanted to say "good for you!" I don't have a trainer to recommend, but some walking is a good place to start if you aren't already very active. I know its hard this time of year to go outside and walk, but maybe around the mall? Good luck!!! :)

Hi S.,

When I was preggers I was put on a special diet because I developed hypoglycemia so I had to watch my sugars and all but eliminated my carbs (a few grams with each meal was acceptable). I would suggest meeting with a dietician. I met with a couple ladies at Silver Cross in Joliet and they were wonderful. My point is I did loose a pound here and there, but not drastic weight-loss.

Still, be careful. Don't get motivated by your new image and try to loose more because as you know, your baby needs the nutrition. Keep taking prenatals, and just eat healthy. Walk daily for excercise. I would not recommend beginning any sort of workout routine at this point!

Good luck.

Hi S.,

I don't know what hospital you are at, but during my pregnancy I was a gestational diabetic (I am also short and overweight). As part of my level 2 care, I met with the dietician at the Maternal Fetal medicine clinic at Hinsdale hospital. Following the diet they recommended and adding in exercise after every meal, I lost 5 pounds between my 27th week and 35th week even though my daughter was still growing. I never did get back up to the weight I was at before my diagnosis. Because I followed the plan, I had a beautiful, healthy, 8lb 4 oz baby.
If you want to send me an offline message, I can outline the eating plan I was on for you.

Well i guess i am not alone. I am pregnant with my second child as well and overweight as well. My doc said not to gain more than 15 pounds with this pregnancy which seems impossible to me because with my daughter i gained 70lbs! Yeah i know way too much but she was a 10 pound baby. I too have been trying to change habits like eating healthy, and stair stepping but have managed to only gain 4 pounds.I am now one day into my 4th month. I can't give you too much advice, but i just wanted to let you know you are not alone. Good luck and i hope you get some good ideas from the ladies here.

Hey girl. Way to go for being concerned about the health of your baby! I'm not going to harp on you AT ALL for wanting to lose a few pounds, but I would highly recommend that that's not your first priority. Like you said in your post, I'd encourage you to eat foods in as close to their natural state as possible - fresh fruits and veggies, meat, dairy, nuts...and just stay away from sugar and refined carbs.

I know this isn't your first time with this, but I would also recommend taking a Bradley class. They have a focus on healthy eating for a healthy pregnancy and baby. The benefits you get from this are possibly lower medical bills throughout your pregnancy, and a less stressful, more natural, healthier, and less expensive labor and delivery.

I'd be curious in knowing if your first baby was induced or was a c-section. Sometimes doctors are off with the age of the baby and they end up going too soon.

Good luck, God bless, and let me know if you need any more info. My Bradley teacher in the area is named Kristi Moke. Her husband owns Moke Realty in Crown Point.

Take care,
K.

This is to help your diet efforts. You are probably tired, everyone is in the first trimester. Sleep more. When you sleep you don't eat :)
And try not to eat a lot before sleeping. Good luck.

Changing your eating habits will automatically make you shed pounds and it won't hurt the baby, but instead be doing more for your new little one in the long run.

1.) Throw all the junk food out. If it isn't in the house, you aren't tempted to splurge. If you need a treat once in awhile, then buy something small when you are at the store next time.

2.) Eat 5 to 10 1/2 cup servings of fruit and veggies a day. The fresher the better, but if that's not possible then make fruit smoothies from frozen fruit. You can find tons of recipes on the internet, eatingwell.com, foodnetwork.com, kraftfoods.com Even canned items are okay if you stay away from heavy syrup and look at the sodium levels in what you buy.

3.) Stay away from pre-packaged because they tend to be really high in calories. I like the tip that Dr Phil has in his books....if it takes time to prepare it is probably healthier for you. The more you have to chop, peel, and prepare the better. Make your meals from scratch. foodnetwork, kraftfoods, eatingwell...all great sites

4.) Eat lots of protien for good brain development. Get plenty of folic acid to deter developmental issues. Make sure you get plenty of calcium for your own bones and teeth. Many women will get cavaties during pregnancy because the baby robs you of calcium.

5.) Take your prenatals. If you are like me, you can't take them in the morning because they make you sick. So take them before bed after dinner.

6.) Remember that you only need 300 more calories a day for the little one. Unless you cut calories down to below 1500 I wouldn't worry about your little one.

Look up the food pyramid for pregnant women...that really helps you figure out what you should eat and how much. Remember servings sizes are very important too. That is the hardest part for me.

If you eat right, in the right portions you will lose the weight and provide for your baby all the building blocks for healthy development.

Oh, and drink lots of water. A woman that doesn't can start to dehydrate and that is one of the biggest causes of pre-term labor. Many women go into labor because they are dehydrated and then when put on an IV their labor will stop.

Hi,
I am a Personal Trainer certified in Maternal Fitness for Pregnant and Postpartum women, which includes nutritional counseling. I am the only one certified in the state for this and I am happy to help you. If you are interested please contact me. We can go over some plans to help both you are your baby. Thanks,
B.

S.
Congrats on number 2! When I was preggers with number 5 I only gained 7 pounds and the baby weighed 7lbs 15oz I too had packed on the pounds previously. I just ate what I was suppose too (we only need an extra 500 calories when pregnant) and I got enough exercise as not to pack on the pounds. Good Luck!
J. O

It's great to eat fruit and veggies but not too much. 1 piece of fruit a day and veggies twice (lettuce & tomato& sliced avacado with mustard on rye or whole wheat is awesome..and I'm a carnivor). Fruit is loaded with sugar that changes to starch and therefore puts weight on instead of off. The most important thing is to eat 5-6 times a day. Small meals and eat them slowly. 20 minutes to complete. After 20 minutes the brain tells the tummy that it's full. That's the whole game plan behind gastro bypass surgery which I ended up having. If the drs. had explained that first, I'de have never gone thru it myself. I had terriable complications. Make sure you dinner is eaten by 5-6 p.m. and that you get a little exercize during the day. Your fruit is good late morning and even at night. The store have diet popsicles that are to die for. Have that for an a.m. snack of half a grilled cheese/ pickles for lunch or a.m. snack. I just had a cup of soup (ramon noodle) for breakfast. It's filling and makes 2 meals. Drink 4-5 bottles or glasses of water a day. Good luck mommy. You can do it. I had the same weight problem as you when I was pregnant, so I know. Also, your proteins should be limited to 3-4 oz pieces at a meal. You'll be pleasantly surprised to see how full you get when you eat slowly.

I have heard of people losing weight in the first trimester- mostly because they start good eating habits. Did you check in the book " What to Expect When your Expecting?" It has been a while since I read it but I seem to remember advice for moms who are overweight starting their pregnancy. Try walking alot, too if you can get somewhere like the YMCA that has a track or even the mall- I also used a great pregnancy pilates video- the instructor was Nece Pechenka- it was so awesome I still use it for the legs and hip section and my last baby is 2! Good Luck- if you get a head start while pregnant you can hit the ground running after the baby is born!!

I would definitely find a dietician to guide you through healthy weightloss during pregnancy -- my doctor had recommended a dietician when I was pregnant with my first one. The concern would be shocking your body into a routine that it is not used to while you have lots of hormonal changes occuring. The safest start you could probably try out would be walking -- they say it is they best exercise and the least difficult for your body to undertake. Just bring lots of water! Good luck

Hey S. S!

Congrats on your pregnancy!Very exciting. Also congrats on your newly found inspiration to become as healthy as you can!
Although I do not have experience very similar to yours, I can tell you just a few things I have learned to do that make myself healthy. First of all, no, you don't need some crazy bootcamp class! Believe it or not, walking is a great form of exercise! Start out with 15 minutes a day and then work your way up to 45 minutes a day. This will seriously help you out. This being said...you must walk at a good clip...not just sauntering as you would shopping down the mag mile. Swing your arms and enjoy the fresh air and you march off those pounds! (listen to some music or informative podcast while you go)

Secondly, your diet:

All the walking won't chip away your fat/pounds unless you are eating well. Sounds like you already have an idea. Lots of tasty salads, with grilled chicken/fish/tofu. Make your own dressing...balsamic vinegar(barely a calorie!) and a little bit of olive oil and salt and pepper and voila!You have your tasty salad, sprinkle in a tBSP of feta cheese or cheddar, green peppers chopped, red onion chopped etc etc. Put all kinds of crazy things in there...it'll fill you up and be yummy!
Stay away from processed foods as they're full of salt, sugar, and fat.

Don't buy any junk food or cookies , soda (that is the worst!!). Lots of fruit and veggies. Sounds like a broken record I know, but it's true.

Congrats on your new path to health and getting your little one off to such a healthy start!!

Keep the faith as it takes a long time to get the fat off (i had a baby 6 months ago and still have 20 pounds to go!!!). Don't weigh yourself, your baby is growing so your weight may just stay the same...

Enjoy how healthy and strong this will all make you feel. You're a tough woman and you can do it!!!!

Yeayyy!!!

S. started a note to you and lost it somehow. Well, I don't know who your doctor is but he has a bad bedside manner. Premature babies exist for a great number of reasons and you cannot be blamed because you have a few extra pounds according to the charts. If that were the case half the population would probably be seven months premature. I myself was a seven month baby to a woman who was model skinny and she still is and I'm about five feet tall and a 150 pounds. So what you can do is relax, eat nutritious foods, take your supplements, walk with other baby on a regular basis and take this losing weight while your pregnant off your mind. You will probably maintain weight while eating nutritously. That doctor doesn't have any ability to see clearly about how this could actually do baby some harm with all the worry he is putting you through. When you take good care of you the weight is falling off anyway and you can eat fruit and vegetable snacks, just like if you were without baby and just enjoy being pregnant. Don't let someone rob you of that as it doesn't happen a lot in a lifetime. So balderdash I say, oh that's good, while the doctor might be a perfectly good doctor he needs to go back to school to learn how to deal with people. Sheesh I never heard somebody being told to lose weight while they are pregnant.

I've been through three pregancies. For the first two my doc asked me to stop exercising due to complications, but for the third, I exercised up until the day before the delivery. My recovery was SO much easier that time and I attribute it to the exercise. (I am not an exercise fanatic!) There are lots of videos out there designed for pregnant women. I liked this one http://www.amazon.com/Leisa-Harts-FitMama-Prenatal-Workou... but there are many others. Good luck to you!

Fruit is good but has alot of sugar, be careful of that.. Veggies are great!!!! but will change your bathroom habits at first but you can't go wrong aeting the veggies. Stick with cutting out the junk food, you will see how the weight comes off. Walking will help alot and the water drink alot it flushes you out and curbs the cravings. Sounds to me like you know and want your goal. Your results will
keep you on the right track. Good Luck and it's great that you feel so strongly about doing this. Winners never quit.

Is this out of the realm of a prenatal exercise class? Are you supposed to work harder than those? Did your dr. give you any guidance?

For your sanity, you should get a written note from your dr. stating that your goal is to lose some weight. If I were a fitness professional and you approached me, I would hesitate to help you out without that.

What area do you live in?

S.,
Congratulations on your pregnancy and on your determination to work towards a healthier lifestyle for yourself and your children!
I'm an exercise physiologist specializing in prenatal and postpartum fitness and the owner/founder of Big Belly Fitness (www.bigbellyfitness.net). I wish you were a little closer to where we are located (we're in the western suburbs), so you could actually participate in our group programs and see how fit our moms have become! We recently did weigh-ins and measurements where several of our moms who had been considered obese by their health-care professionals are now well within the recommended ranges. We even had a mom who went down 2 categories in her health insurance premiums!
Walking is always a terrific option and can be done without equipment. A lot of people recommend water exercise for pregnancy, however, this will not help weight-loss as much as the water temperature has a physiological effect on the body that causes subcutaneous fat store (excess stored energy under the skin layers). So, it should only be used as a supplement to other exercise or if you're unable to do land exercise if you're trying to keep your weight down.
I know you're a little far, but I have a class beginning on Thursday at the My Gym in Wheaton. It's called Tummy-Time for Mommy and is a 6-week course designed to improve your posture, strengthen the abdominals and core, and correct the damage to the connective tissue that stretches out during and after pregnancy. Doing exercises improperly can actually make "mommy bulge" worse! Anyone who is pregnant or has EVER had a child should participate in this class! It would be worth the drive if you're able.
If you would like some professional guidance, I would be willing to coach you through this. If we could even meet just once, I could then "e-train" you through the fitness and nutrition. It actually sounds like you're already doing many of my first nutritional recommendations already! If you're interested, feel free to call me at ###-###-#### or e-mail me at ____@____.com can also check out many of our success stories and testimonials here on Mamasource...just look up Big Belly Fitness / On A Roll Stroller Fitness.
Good Luck!

I think that it's great that you care enough about yourself and your child to get healthy and to be concerned about weight loss.

Of course you should first talk to your doctor and it seems like you have. A healthy way of eating is more important that weight loss but that usually is a great side effect of healthy eating.

To shed my baby weight and the way I plan on eating when I get pregnant again (hopefully this fall) I followed the Sonoma Diet eating plan. You can actually find this book at Dollar General for $1 or any book store. I wouldn't follow the "Wave 1" part of the diet because it restricts calories and it's fast weight loss. I would start "Wave 2" because it's healthy eating. This best part of the plan is that it's about portion control and healthy choices. It's not a DIET is a healthy eating plan. It's a great eating plan and the food is great.

I'm using it to lose 10 more pounds because I was heavy too when I first got pregnant with my son and if I had eaten this way it would have been a lot easier.

Good luck and congrats on making healthy decisions for you, your baby and your family!!!!
PS my husband loves the food and doesn't think of it as a diet.

Let me know how it goes.

Deb

I definitely recommend a session with a nutritionist/dietician who can help you establish an eating plan appropriate for your pregnancy. I had gestational diabetes while carrying my second child (am 5'2" and 135 lbs at start of both pregnancies) and through working with the dietician I gained a healthy amount for the babies, managed the gestational diabetes and ended up weighing significantly less after delivery than before. It is worth the investment (insurance may cover it) to work with a nutritionist/dietician!

Eating healthy is a great start, S.. You can also drink lots of water -not only is it great to keep you hydrated, but it also keeps those munchie cravings in check. When you get a craving for something, have a glass of water and see if you can wait five minutes: if you can, then it probably wasn't hunger.

I don't have a nutritionist I can recommend. I did WW and they won't let you be on the program if you're pregnant. You can read the information on their website for free and there are a lot of good tips.

Good luck and stay healthy!
H.

Honestly, your best bet would be to go see a nutritionist and preferrably one who has an interest in prenatal nutrition.

The biggest myth out there is that when you are pregnant, you are eating for two...and most people think that the 'two' is another human being the same size as they are. Well, thankfully the little person growing inside of us during pregnancy isn't the same size as us otherwise carrying and delivering would be crazy! Technically you 'are' eating for two, but not two adults...more like one adult and one poppy seed, then jelly bean, and so on.

When you are pregnant, you really only need to eat about 300-500 more calories per day than you normally consume. In other words, you could probably get away with consuming between 1700-2000 calories per day and healthily sustain your pregnancy while losing weight. Additionally, if you are obese chances are you will only gain between 15-25 pounds during your pregnancy.

You might wish to look into a diabetic nutrition plan. It works well for many reasons. First off, you would be including whole-grain/complex carbohydrate foods as well as proteins that will help keep you feeling fuller and satisfied for longer periods of time. Secondly, many people who are obese are at risk for gestational diabetes - may as well start healthy habits now in an attempt to avoid a GD diagnosis (which can lead to an overfat baby and potential c-section due to the baby's size). Finally, the majority of diabetic eating plans are actually healthy nutrition lifestyles that you can carry with you for the rest of your life (avoiding/limiting simple and refined sugars, focusing on whole grains, including good sources of proteins, eating every 3-4 hours to keep blood sugar levels stable).

Good luck to you and best wishes for a healthy pregnancy.

Congratulations! I understand your concern but try not to stress over it. Eat small 5 or 6 small meals a day. Doing housework is a good form of exercise along with walking. I am a single mother of a 3 1/2 year old daughter. During my first trimester I lost 4 pounds. I couldn't hold down water but once I got past that I gained 35 throughout the pregnancy and had a healthy baby. Continue to eat healthy and drink plenty of water. Keep the faith, don't overdo things, and minimize stress and enjoy your pregnancy. Much love and Good Luck!

Hi S.,

I don't think there is anything wrong with wanting to have a healthy pregnancy. So many of my friends told me that when I got pregnant I would want to sit down and eat an entire bag of Oreos. When I did get pregnant I did exactly what you are doing, I simply changed my habits. I think I was the healthiest when I was pregnant. I worked with a trainer at Bally's in Schaumburg (Sch/Barr Rd.). I definitely recommend them, I still work with him. Let me know if you want any other info. Good Luck.
S.

HI S., I am a fitness professional. My best advice is start off walking than add little hand weights. Stay in your comfort zone. Chaging your diet will be a huge impact. Keep you the great work and stay positive. If you have questions feel free to ask.
L.

Get the book Exercising through your pregnancy by Dr. Clapp. It is the gold standard. You go girl!

It sounds like you are already doing a good job watching what you eat. Keep an eye on the nuts though, they can be high in fat. You really only need a small amout of nuts in your diet. Stick to the lean protiens, fruits and vegetables, and dairy. Here is my other suggestion. Water Aerobics. This is the kind of exercise that it sounds like you need. Try to find a pre-natel class to join. Even if you are in a class of senior ladies, you will be in a supportive and caring environment. As far as the exercise? This will make you feel light while protecting your joints, and working your heart. Probably the best exercise out there for pregnant women, plus you can do it all the way to delivery!

I just wanted to write to you because I am in the same exact boat. Thank you for your question! I too am trying to lose weight & am 8 weeks pregnant. I too had a premie only seven short months ago. My doctor says to exercise at the most 30 minutes every day. Keep it low impact & your pulse must stay under 140. I've been using an eliptical, a pre-natal yoga dvd (which I absolutely LOVE) and another workout dvd. I purchased both at Target. Email me if you'd like the names.
When I first realized I was pregnant, I felt an overwhelming need to get in the best shape possible so that I wouldn't have another premature baby. Do not to beat yourself up for having a premie. I find it very hard not to feel guilty & am very scared that I'll have another, but don't blame your obesity. There are skinny women that have premies too. If you find that it's too much pressure to put on yourself to lose the weight just focus on just being as happy and comfortable as possible. I am trying to incorporate a fruit and vegetable into every meal, healthy snacks & no more pop (unless I really really want one).
Congratulations on the pregnancy & for trying your best to be healthy for your children. Good luck!

I had gestational diabetes and am obese. Dr. Shipley (northshore endocrinologist) has a good registered dietician that was helpful with my diet. She helps lots of pregnant women have a healthy pregnancy.

In terms of fitness I would start taking daily walks of at least 30 minutes each. If you were not working out on a regular basis before the pregnancy, unfortunately, now is not the time to start a strenuous workout routine. If you can, get a heart rate monitor, (Polar makes great heart rate monitor watches) as you do not want to elevate your heart rate to over 140 beats per minute during pregnancy. They can be pricey, so if a monitor is not an option just make sure you are not breathing so heavily that you cannot maintain a conversation. And stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.

In terms of diet, try to eat 5-6 small healthy meals a day versus three large ones. This will keep your blood sugar on an even keel helping you to feel full throughout the day and keep you from unhealthy snacking. It's also good for the baby. If you are restricting calories, you need to make sure each and every calorie you take in is packed with nutrients and not waste your calorie intake on junk. Try to avoid white flour and refined sugars. Limit your intake of breads and pasta but when you do partake, choose whole grain options. Your baby will always get the nutrients he/she needs by taking it from your body, so if you do not eat properly you will suffer more than the baby and you can't afford that with another child to take care of already.

My biggest recommendation is to see a dietician/nutritionist to help guide you and provide you with more specifics for your diet. Now is a time when you really can't take too many chances with calorie restriction and a professional can help you make sure you are getting everything your body needs while still losing weight. Since your doctor has told you that you are obese and has recommended you lose weight during pregnancy, you shouldn't have an issue having your insurance cover the visits. Just make sure you get a referral from your physician if you have an HMO or other plan that requires this.

Good luck!

I just want to encourage you. I hear your heart in this, and think you are great to be willing to work haard for your new baby! Wish I had more advise, I really don't know about this stuff - but just wanted to say good for you!

Try calorie counting on sparkpeople.com Good luck!

Just wanted to say good luck! I was going to post that weight loss in pregnancy is not healthy and when I looked it up I found quite the opposite is true. Reducing maternal weight can protect mom and baby. Best wishes.

okay, don't know if this will help you except to say it is possible! I do not lose weight when breastfeeding and I gained 70+lbs with my first child so when I got pregnant with my second 10 mos after my first while breastfeeding I was still 30 lbs overweight becuase of the first pregnancy. I breastfed for the frist 2 mos of pregnancy and didn't lose or gain weight. Then when I stopped nursing I lost a little weight 10 lbs before entiring my second trimester. It was the frist trimester so the baby was growing but I was shedding some of my lbs. I ended up back at the same weight the second time around when I gave birth. I am still trying to sheld those 30 lbs. But the point of my story is...it is possible to lose weight and have your baby be growing and gaining if you have the extra pounds to lose. Good luck to you! I wish you a happy and healthy pregnancy and baby!

S.,
Congratulations on expecting your second child. I'd suggest working with someone who can coach you on your eating choices and meet with you one on one. My household has had success with Diane Bubeck in Naperville. Diane works out of her house http://www.bubeckandassociates.com/
Diane Bubeck & Associates
3528 Becket Lane
Naperville, Illinois 60564
Diane is a registered and licensed dietician.

Phone: ###-###-####
Fax: ###-###-####

I'd also suggest walking for exercise (but not outside on the icy days) - Fox Valley Mall allows people to come and walk indoors around 8am (enter by the Ruby Tuesday entrance).

I've lost weight through yoga but it is a gradual loss - there are separate classes for prenatal to connect you with other expecting Moms - details at: www.universalspirityoga.com

I've done Weight Watchers before and have had success. They have special guidelines for women who are pregnant or lactating. And what's best is that they teach you a new way to approach food and portion size, and to help you learn to make smart choices about what you eat. It's something that's helped me for years past the date when I lost the weight. It's still helping me. It's been about 8 years and my weight is still off, even after having gained 50+ pounds with my first pregnancy. Good luck!

S., my SIL changed her diet from alot of fast food to healthy proteins and fresh fruits & veggies and lost unneeded weight and had a healthy baby. A friend did the same thing by swimming several times a week while pregnant.

Hello, I did lose weight when I was pregnant. I went to a dietitian and she broke down what I should be eating on a daily and meal by meal schedule. I also walked as much as possible too. Since then, I became a birth instructor and we go over nutrition. For those who want a more personal guide, I do offer them too. I am not a certified nutritionist or dietitian, but it seems that my advice has helped many moms I have worked with and just having a strong support group works too. Let me know if you have any questions.