Pregnancy weight gain.

Weight gain during pregnancy is perfectly natural and necessary for the healthy development of your baby.

The amount of weight gained during pregnancy varies from person to person and will depend on the person’s weight before conception.

As a rough guide someone with a healthy BMI (Body Mass Index) of between 20-25 could expect to gain between 20 and 35 pounds with 5 pounds gained in the first trimester and a pound a week thereafter. A person who was underweight (BMI less than20) could expect to gain 28-40 pounds and someone who was overweight (BMI between 25-30) would gain 15-25 pounds.

If you are lucky enough to be expecting twins be prepared for a weight gain anywhere between 40 and 50 pounds.

To stay within the recommended weight gain ranges it is necessary to have a healthy diet and to do regular exercise for as long as possible.

During the first trimester of pregnancy it is only necessary to eat an additional 300 calories each day and at later stages of pregnancy it is important to be sensible and have good pregnancy nutrition.

Studies have shown that women who gain too much weight during pregnancy are more likely to have a c- section and find it harder to lose weight post-pregnancy. Regular exercise during pregnancy helps to burn off excess calories and helps to keep muscles toned and firm.

Although a lot of weight is gained during pregnancy it is not a cause for concern. Most new mothers lose half of their pregnancy weight in less than six weeks after giving birth.

The baby accounts for 8 pounds and amniotic fluid, placenta etc account for another 12 pounds. The rest of the weight gained can be lost by having a healthy diet and taking regular exercise.