Healthy Weight Management During Pregnancy: A Guide for Expecting Mothers

Question
Hello.  I am planning on getting pregnant in July/August time frame (or at least that is when we will start trying).  I am currently about 30 pounds overweight and on a diet.  I eat about 1200-1350 calories a day, mostly low fat foods like cereal, salads, fruits, veggies etc.  I am also exercising - 3 hours aerobics a week and several 2-3 miles walking each week.  I am making good progress - about 2 pounds a week.  I would most definately want to be at my goal weight before getting pregnant, that is the plan.  However, since I have gone off the pill and we are using other methods that aren't as effective there is a chance I could get pregnant before I hit my goal weight.  My question, after all this build up, is this - if I get pregnant before reaching my goal, is it possible to stick to a certain amount of calories/fat that is healthy for the growing baby but will still allow me to continue losing my unwanted weight - essentially losing it around my hips/thighs/butt while gaining around my belly...?  Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions!
Maggie

Answer
Once you become pregnant, you will be instructed to go on some form of maintenance diet so that you will not continue to lose weight. If you continue to lose weight, there is no way to know if the baby is growing adequately. YOu should gain approximately 28lbs for the entire pregnancy. We do not wish you to gain weight around your belly and lose it around your hips. We want the calories to be adequate enough for the baby to grow. That is the only way to know if there is adeuqate fetal growth (in addition to serial sonography). After the delivery of the baby, you will be able to go back on your diet.