The holidays are here and the temptations for delicious treats are everywhere. If you are pregnant and you want to indulge in goodies this time of year, we don’t blame you. Studies show that most people gain weight during the holidays from November to January.
In general, a woman with an average weight before pregnancy should gain between 25 and 35 pounds total. There are different guidelines for women who were overweight or underweight at the start of her pregnancy.
There are some things you can do to avoid holiday weight gain, especially when you are trying to maintain your weight during pregnancy.
Avoiding Holiday Weight Gain
Keep your physical activity going during the holidays. With your doctor’s approval, you can work out during pregnancy, even when it’s chilly outside. This will help keep your weight in check and also help lower stress levels. Try to schedule your work out time in advance so that it’s already on your calendar.
Find a workout buddy. Having someone hold you accountable at the gym, a fitness class or a quick stroll around the neighborhood is a great way to keep motivated.
Set food and snacking boundaries. Holiday parties are packed with foods that may not be ideal. These may be disguised as healthy, but in fact could be full of sugar or sodium that isn’t ideal for a pregnant woman, especially if there are issues with gestational diabetes or high blood pressure. Limit yourself to one treat once or twice per week.
Come prepared to parties. If you show up on an empty stomach, chances are you will want to eat everything in sight. Instead, bring along some apple slices or almonds to satisfy some cravings without indulging in everything. Then if you want to nibble a little, remember to eat in moderation. A few bites can satisfy your cravings without having to finish a whole buffet plate.
So think about your New Year’s resolutions early and focus on eating healthy and enjoying holiday treats in moderation. These strategies can help minimize weight gain during pregnancy, but don’t worry if a few pounds sneak in.
Happy Holidays!