Taming Hunger in Pregnancy

by Pattie Hughes | More from this Blogger

Some women find they don't have much of an appetite when they are pregnant. Often this is the result of recurring morning sickness. Other women have the opposite problem. They seem to be hungry all the time.

Nutrition is definitely important during pregnancy. However, constant hunger can be too much of a good thing. If you give in to every craving or feeling of hunger, your weight gain can get out of control. This increases the risk of complications during pregnancy and delivery. After the baby is born, excessive weight gain can make losing the baby weight.

Contrary to grandma's wisdom, you aren't actually eating for two. The baby really only needs an additional 300 calories. Pregnancy isn't a license to eat, although I've certainly made that mistake in at least one pregnancy! Believe me; the day will come when you will be sorry.

This doesn't mean that you should go hungry or skip meals or snacks to avoid excessive weight gain. You can tame the hunger and stay within a reasonable weight gain at the same time. It is possible. The first step is to eat a healthy diet. Snacking on fresh fruit, vegetables, yogurt, string cheese and other healthy foods will help you stay satisfied and maintain a healthy weight gain for you and your baby.

Many doctors and midwives recommend that pregnant women eat smaller, more frequent meals. Frequent hunger and even bouts with low blood sugar are common in pregnancy. When you spread your calories throughout the day, rather than eating them all in three large meals, you will stay full and avoid empty snacking.

Regular exercise is another way to maintain a healthy weight gain. You can enjoy a healthy diet and stay in shape by getting some regular exercise. Aim for at least thirty minutes of exercise three or four days out of the week. This can be at a gym, taking a walk around the neighborhood or swimming in a pool.

Related Articles:

Changes to Make in Your Diet Now

Healthy Snacking for Pregnant Women

The Dangers of Excessive Weight Gain

Learn more about Pattie Hughes

Pattie Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four young children. She and her husband have been married since 1992. Pattie holds a degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University.

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