Can I diet during pregnancy?

If you’re thinking of going on a weight-loss diet when you’re pregnant, you should think again. Dieting during pregnancy and deliberately cutting calories to lose weight can be harmful for your growing baby as you are limiting the nutrients they need.

Keeping fit during pregnancy

It is important to keep fit and healthy during pregnancy and you should continue to take moderate exercise for 30 minutes every day. If you are not used to exercise, start small and make gradual changes to your routine. There are lots of ways you can add more exercise to your day; for example, climb the stairs rather than taking the lift, get out and walk during your lunch break or get off the bus one stop earlier and walk the rest of the way. Your body will cope better with pregnancy and labour if you are fit and it will also be easier to get back into shape after baby is born too.

Mum, Chantelle shares some simple pregnancy exercises that you can do at any stage and in the comfort of your own home...

Healthy eating during pregnancy

It’s important to follow a well-balanced diet and avoid foods high in fat and sugar. You should also make sure you stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Healthy eating during pregnancy combined with regular exercise should ensure you do not put on excess weight. A healthy weight gain should be related to your body mass index (BMI) which your midwife will have calculated for you at your booking appointment.

We're sharing the answers to some of the most common questions asked during pregnancy...

Obesity during pregnancy

If you are obese, medical professionals advise losing weight before becoming pregnant as being overweight can lead to complications, such as gestational diabetes and hypertension. If you become pregnant and you are obese you can still make positive lifestyle changes. In fact, pregnancy could be the trigger for you to become a healthier mother for the future.

Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables, lean meat and fish, wholegrain rice and pasta while ditching calorific snacks such as crisps and sweets will mean you do not gain excess weight in pregnancy.

Your midwife will monitor your weight during pregnancy if you are under or over weight. If you are obese you may be advised to have your baby in a consultant-led unit to reduce the risks for you and your baby.

If you concerned about your weight for any reason seek advice and support from your midwife.