QuestionI am 7 months pregnant and have been overweight since the age of 17. Now that I am pregnant I have lost 35 pounds and am not gaining any consistent weight, yet my doctor says that both myself and the baby is fine. I walk a lot and want to know does this has any effect on the continual weight loss.
AnswerDoctors often recommend that women who are significantly overweight before pregnancy not gain any additional weight, or possibly even lose weigh during pregnancy, because it is much healthier for both you and your baby. We're now seeing more and more health problems and pregnancy complications as a result of maternal obesity during pregnancy.
Since your Dr. says that both you and your baby are doing fine, then you should give yourself a big pat on the back. It means that you've made healthy nutrition and exercise choices. Most likely you are the healthier than you've ever been. A big congratulation to you!
Keep on fitness walking. Studies show that babies born to moms who have good cardiovascular health have stronger cardiovascular systems from the get go. This gives your baby a major head start in life. Again, major kudos to you for giving your baby this important advantage.
Aerobic conditioning also increases the strength of your immune system, an important benefit to your baby during and after pregnancy.
Consider breastfeeding for as long as possible. This will dramatically improve your baby's nutritional health and immune system as well.
And since you've adopted the habit of fitness walking, plan on continuing this after your baby is born, with your baby in either a front pack or a stroller. It will help you get even more fit, lose additional weight if needed, and improve your psychological outlook on life.
Fit, healthy families start with fit, healthy moms. Consider how you can become the health leader of your family. Nothing is more powerful than demonstrating good health habits for your child to emulate.
