Some weight gain is perfectly normal during pregnancy. However, putting on too many pounds will affect your health and lead to problems like pregnancy-associated hypertension and complications during delivery. Below are a few simple weight management tips to help you stay within a healthy range.

How to Watch Your Weight While Pregnant

1. Start Early

Don’t wait until you’re pregnant to start a weight management program. If you’re considering conceiving a child, take steps to get yourself within an ideal weight range first.

2. Eat in Moderation

You may be eating for two, but your body doesn’t need to be flooded with calories. Typically, pregnant women only need an extra 340 calories a day during the second trimester and 450 calories a day in the third trimester. Stay full by choosing foods with high nutritional value like lean proteins, vegetables, and fruits.

3. Drink Lots of Water

Dehydration can lead to serious pregnancy complications, such as low amniotic fluid and premature labor. By drinking about 10 eight-ounce glasses of water every day, you and the baby will get the hydration you need. The water will also help you feel fuller, which will prevent overeating.

4. Reduce Sugar Intake

Sweet beverages are loaded with sugar and empty calories, which means they offer little to no nutritional value. While you don’t have to completely eliminate sweet drinks from your diet plan, limiting the number of soft drinks, fruity drinks, and iced tea you have will reduce your sugar intake to healthier levels.

5. Exercise

Exercise is a necessary aspect of weight management, and moderate physical activity is fine for most pregnancies. If you already have an exercise routine that doesn’t involve contact sports, feel free to continue it. Walking for 10 to 30 minutes a day is another fantastic way to stay active and drop pounds.

Interested in more weight management tips for your pregnancy? Reach out to the team at Nebraska Weight Management Institute in Lincoln and Omaha, NE. These licensed health care professionals use safe and effective methods to help clients lose weight fast and keep the pounds off. To learn more about their fitness programs, visit their website. You can also reach a helpful representative at their Lincoln clinic at (402) 483-4770. Call (402) 399-9386 for their Omaha location.