Let's debunk some common myths and provide you with scientifically accurate information to guide you on this journey.
Remember, every pregnancy is unique, and it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Myth 1: "You Should Eat for Two!"
One of the most prevalent myths about pregnancy weight gain is the belief that you need to "eat for two."
While it's true that you need extra nutrients during pregnancy, it doesn't mean doubling your calorie intake. Here are the facts:
Scientifically, the average pregnant woman needs only about 300-500 additional calories per day during the second and third trimesters.
Quality over quantity: Focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Listen to your body: Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues. Eat when you're hungry and stop when you're satisfied.
Remember, pregnancy is not a free pass to indulge in unhealthy foods excessively.
Eating a balanced and nutritious diet is key to supporting your health and the development of your baby.
Myth 2: "Losing Weight During Pregnancy is Safe and Healthy!"
Contrary to popular belief, actively trying to lose weight during pregnancy is not recommended unless advised by your healthcare provider. Here's why:
Weight loss concerns: Rapid weight loss or extreme dieting can compromise your baby's growth and development.
Focus on health, not weight: Instead of aiming to lose weight, prioritize maintaining a healthy lifestyle by engaging in regular physical activity and consuming nutritious foods.
Healthy weight gain: Your healthcare provider will provide guidelines on how much weight gain is appropriate for your specific situation, taking into account factors such as your pre-pregnancy weight, BMI, and overall health.
Remember, your body is doing incredible work to support the growth and development of your baby.
Focus on nourishing yourself and your baby rather than obsessing over the numbers on the scale.
Your healthcare provider will monitor your weight gain and guide you accordingly.
Myth 3: "All Pregnancy Weight is Fat!"
It's important to understand that not all pregnancy weight is fat.
During pregnancy, your body undergoes various changes, and weight gain can be attributed to different factors, including:
Uterus growth: As your baby grows, your uterus expands, contributing to weight gain.
Amniotic fluid and placenta: These play a vital role in supporting your baby's development and contribute to the overall weight gain.
Increased blood volume: Your body produces more blood during pregnancy, which adds to the weight gain.
Breast tissue: Preparing for breastfeeding, your breasts may increase in size and contribute to weight gain.
While it's important to maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy, remember that weight gain is a natural and necessary part of the process.
Myth 4: "You'll Never Lose the Pregnancy Weight!"
It's common to hear concerns about losing pregnancy weight postpartum.
The truth is, with a healthy lifestyle and patience, you can gradually return to your pre-pregnancy weight. Here's what you need to know:
Breastfeeding benefits: Breastfeeding can help with postpartum weight loss by burning extra calories.
Gradual approach: Give yourself time to heal and adjust to your new role as a mother. Aim for slow and steady weight loss rather than quick fixes.
Focus on self-care: Prioritize self-care and establish a routine that includes regular physical activity, balanced meals, and enough rest.
Remember, the focus should be on your overall well-being and the health of your baby, rather than achieving a specific weight or body shape immediately.
July 7th, I went to my appointment and weighed 199 lbs. Today, July 31st, I weigh 210 lbs 🫤.
My pre pregnancy weight was around 185 and until today, I’ve been gaining weight steadily, about 1-2 pounds a week. I also don’t overeat either. Any explanation for such excessive weight gain ? #weightgain #plussize
I’m assuming water weight+ breast milk and increased blood. My doctor told me some other stuff a while back I can’t remember.
27 Mar 2024
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Rebecca
My starting weight was 164, I’m 204 now at 25 weeks
27 Mar 2024
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Deziii
1 Jun 2023
Can we talk about weight gain ? I’ve gained 11 lbs and I’m in my 8th month. My doctor makes it seems like I’ve gained so much weight. 🥺 this is my first so I’m not sure what “normal” weight gain is during pregnancy. Like I’m sure all the fluid and the baby it’s self is not light.
Thats crazy!!! With my last pregnancy I gained 41 pounds total! I had gestational diabetes though but my doctor didn't make me feel bad about it and my first pregnancy I gained like 30. This one I've gained 16 and that's not a lot!
27 Mar 2024
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𝓣𝓲𝓯𝓯𝓪𝓷𝓨 💞
Here's a chart I Googled and this is what most doctors have said
27 Mar 2024
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Chelsea
13 Jan 2023
I feel like there should be a forum on here for missconptions and debunked old wives' tales regarding conception and pregnancy, I see too much misinformation on here...
Yasss.. I like the social media aspect for connecting with people, but some hardcore facts, debunking misconceptions, and such would be nice too 🙂
27 Mar 2024
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Chelsea
being able to connect is nice, I just wish some of these ladies would stop listening to advice from 50+ years ago that's been proven to not work 😥
27 Mar 2024
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Alecia 🌺
31 Dec 2022
Looking back, Ladies do not i repeat DO NOT be overly obsessed about how much weight you gain during your pregnancy. It will just overwhelm you because i was this way and literally i dropped my weight in a snap after babygirl was born😇
Anyone else struggling with weight gain? My pre-pregnancy weight was 114lbs and I’m now 27 weeks pregnant but only weigh 119. You can’t even tell I’m pregnant. My doctor hasn’t said anything about it but it’s like no matter how much I eat the weight just isn’t being put on.
I think it’s normal. Because same with me. I’ve only gained 5lbs and still small but it’s also my 4th kid. But all the growing happens the last two months.
27 Mar 2024
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Nija
I think it’s normal too an average baby at birth is 4-5 pounds and above for baby’s that aren’t premature , I was 178 before I got pregnant now I’m 165 and the baby added 2 pounds
27 Mar 2024
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Tiffany
20 May 2022
Has anyone just not gain any damn weight in this pregnancy yet? I'm 29wks and lost weight in the beginning because of hyperemesis gravidarum, and literally only gain 5lbs since then. I mean, baby girl is healthy and growing properly but not me lol
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