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A Weighty Issue

Pregnancy Weight Gain Guidelines

By Jennifer Lacey

For Dr. Einstein, this study brings up several important issues. "It is becoming increasingly more difficult for general obstetricians to discuss all pregnancy related topics with the depth needed, in addition to any specific complaints that the patient may have and any complications of the pregnancy," she says. "Unfortunately, basic issues of general health, nutrition and weight gain can be overlooked. I believe that all women, including women of ideal weight, can benefit from nutritional and weight counseling."

Hackley agrees, adding the study shows that health care providers can help expectant women "improve their diets and increase the likelihood that they will gain weight appropriately by helping women set small, yet achievable, goals and by monitoring their progress over their pregnancy."

"Although weight gain is important and guidelines are often overlooked, there are other important nutritional factors for healthy pregnancies," says Dr. Landsberger. "Diets rich in whole grains, fruits and vegetables, with protein and healthy fats, such as from olive oil, nuts, avocados and some fish, provide important vitamins and minerals, amino acids and essential fatty acids necessary for proper growth and development of the baby. The point being, it's not just the overall amount of food/calories, but the quality as well."

Following a healthy diet, maintaining a regular exercise program and having an open, ongoing dialogue with your primary care physician will help you make sure you're gaining the appropriate amount of weight at a reasonable rate of time.

Want to see more?

• Two of Everything, Please: Debunking the Myth of Eating for Two
• Liquid Nutrition: Smart Nutrition for Thirsty Moms
• Pregnancy Nutrition from A to Z: A Comprehensive List of Nutrition Issues for Moms-to-be
• Talk about it!

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