According to new research presented at the Endocrine Society’s 93rd Annual Meeting in June 2011, excessive maternal weight gain puts your newborn at risk for having a high amount of body fat ““ a possible risk factor for childhood obesity down the road. Childhood obesity puts your child at risk for developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a number of other problems.
Tips to Avoid Excessive Weight Gain in Pregnancy
For your own health and your child’s long-term well-being, it’s a good idea that you avoid excessive weight gain in pregnancy. Try to add in an exercise routine to your daily life. Take a brisk walk around the neighborhood, or go swimming at the local gym. You’ll want to eat a healthy and balanced diet. Choose nutrient-dense foods, such as lean meats, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. Keep in mind that you only require 300 additional calories in pregnancy on top of your regular diet. Eating too much can pack on those excessive pounds.
“The Association Between Pregnancy Weight Gain and Birt hweight: A Within Family Comparison.” The Lancet, Volume 376, Issue 9745, Pages 984 – 990, 18 September 2010 (http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(10)60751-9/abstract)
Science Daily: “Excessive Pregnancy Weight Gain Raises the Risk of Having a Fat Baby” http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/06/110607121131.htm