I’m 30 pounds overweight and was planning to lose weight before getting pregnant. Well, I’m pregnant. Am I at risk of gestational diabetes? Can I lose weight while I’m pregnant?
The answers are yes and no; yes, you are at risk of gestational diabetes,. And no, we do not recommend losing weight at this time. You should maintain your weight and add physical activity (walking more than you now do can make a difference. Plus exercise reduces your risk of gestational diabetes). Get a pedometer and keep track of your steps , increasing what you do slowly and steadily. Remember , you are eating for 1.1, not 2. You need to add only 10 per cent more calories (the equivalent of adding about 12 walnuts a day to your diet during your first and second trimesters, and an apple plus the walnuts in your third trimester). Avoid saturated and trans fats, simple sugars and syrups, and any grain that isn’t 100 per cent whole.
Some does now suggest that pregnant women should get tested for gestational diabetes at 16 weeks (the norm is 24-28 weeks). If your glucose levels are elevated at that point, you can start early to lower them. Unchecked, they can affect your child, triggering obesity, diabetes and even behavioral problems.
If you want to do more than extra daily walking , talk to your obstetrician about the right physical activity for you. Also talk to a nutritionist,who will give you a meal plan for your whole pregnancy.
King Features Syndicate.
Thanks,
The Hindu- Well Being,
27/01/2013
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