When You Are Gaining Weight Fast
Oops! It looks like you may be gaining weight too fast during your pregnancy. It’s GREAT that you are eating so well. But you know that you don’t want to get too big. Plus, gaining too much weight may cause problems during delivery.
So here are some questions you can ask yourself that can help you keep your weight gain within the range that is right for you.
- Am I overeating? When? Why? What foods?
- Am I snacking too much? Or am I snacking on the wrong foods?
- Am I drinking too much soda, Kool-Aid or punch?
- Am I eating a lot because I am nervous?
- Am I getting enough exercise?
Then decide what changes you need to make. Your nurse or dietitian can help you with this.
Here are some ideas that could really help:
- Walking is a simple exercise almost everyone can do. Find 20 minutes a day to walk, unless your doctor says not to.
- Instead of reaching for a snack, do something else. If you are at home, turn on the radio and dance for five minutes. Sing a song. Call a friend. Get out of the house. Go for a walk.
- Plan your snacks. Plan what you will have and when. Try to buy low-calorie snacks like popcorn or fruit.
- If you are nervous or stressed out, try some of these ideas. Talk with someone. Get enough sleep. Try prayer and quiet meditation. Laugh.
Some More Changes You Can Make
- Most soda has about nine teaspoons of sugar in each can. That’s about 150 calories. Try reaching for ice water instead. Squeeze a piece of lemon in it for a fresh taste.
- Drink low-fat or skim milk. Skim milk has fewer calories but the same nutrients.
- Fat is fattening! Stay away from fried foods and other foods high in fat. Cut out gravy and fries.
- Do you love sweets? This can be a big problem. The best thing to do is to keep them out of the house. Get lots of fruit like bananas and watermelon.
This page last updated on 03/08/07.