Staying Healthy
Pregnancy is a time to focus on being as healthy as possible. Good nutrition is important to you, and to your developing baby. Your physician will work with you to determine the optimal diet and proper caloric intake during your pregnancy.
Weight Watchers is a prominent weight loss program focusing on a natural approach to weight loss. Weight Watchers encourages members to lose weight by following a sensible eating plan, attending meetings for support, and exercising.
Although Weight Watchers advocates eating a wide variety of healthy, nutrient dense foods, the program is restrictive about the number of calories consumed. Weight Watchers policy states that women cannot participate in the program during pregnancy. Caloric requirements are different for pregnant women and should be closely monitored. Weight Watchers suggests working closely with your physician, and following his diet recommendations. If you are following the Weight Watchers plan when you get pregnant, you will be asked to suspend your membership until after the pregnancy. You can use the following tips to help you maintain sensible eating habits, and a healthy lifestyle until resuming your participation in the program.
Eat Plenty of Fruits and Vegetables
Pregnancy is a time of food cravings. Keep a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables in your refrigerator for snacking. Strawberries, blueberries, and grapes are bite sized, convenient and portable. Carrot sticks, broccoli florets, celery, cherry tomatoes and cauliflower are crunchy, colorful, and can be eaten in volume. Fruits and vegetables are tasty, and contribute to the good health of you and your baby.
Maintain Your Exercise Program
Work closely with your physician to determine the best way to keep active as your pregnancy progresses. If you were following an exercise program when you were participating in the Weight Watchers program, you may need to modify it as you get further along. Walking is a form of exercise that is simple, free, and enjoyable. Most physicians encourage exercise and a fitness regime during pregnancy.
Try to Avoid Poor Food Choices
Occasional indulgences are unavoidable, especially during pregnancy. Try to stay away from fast food, fried food, and processed food. Many pregnant women crave sweets. If you must feed your craving, try to be cautious about portion size, and don?t make the consumption of sweets an everyday occurrence. Your body will thank you after your baby is born!
You can safely resume your participation in Weight Watchers after the birth of your baby, with your physician's approval. You?ll need to continue to follow the recommendations of your physician and pediatrician if you are breast feeding, to assure you and your baby are receiving adequate nutrition.