No Weight Gain Recommended for Obese Women During Pregnancy

The Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommends, in its new guidelines for pregnancy weight, that women who are obese gain 11 to 20 pounds during pregnancy. Though a recent research study conducted by Yvonne S. Thornton, MD, MPH suggests that women who are already considered obese prior to pregnancy may not need to gain any additional weight during their actual pregnancy.

It's easy to forget that even though there are technically two of you that doesn't mean you should necessarily be eating for two - or at least not consuming the amount required for two whole adults. Opposite to what culture tends to suggest, pregnancy is not a time for overeating, but rather a time to focus on good nutrition and healthy habits. This is especially true for women who are overweight and Thorton believes that these women should be held additionally accountable for their eating habits.

"It is the mindset of our specialty, and our society, that we need to have round, chubby pregnant women in order make sure they are healthy," adds Dr. Thornton. "Pregnancy has become a license to eat. We talk about 'eating for two,' but it's really more like eating for 1 and 1/20th (courtesy of Science Daily)."

It's not always easy to reach for the healthier option when you're fighting nausea and cravings, but there are many great resources to assist you along the way. Don't obsess about each and every item that you consume or pound that you gain, but rather embrace a healthy lifestyle that's sure to only benefit your baby.

Thorton believes that this additional motivation assists many women who would otherwise struggle with such a lifestyle change:

"I think a lot of times with pregnant ladies, you can motivate someone to do things for themselves during pregnancy that you ordinarily might not be able to motivate them to do, because it's not just about them but it's also about the outcomes for their babies, as well (courtesy of WebMD)."

Also, there are many benefits of maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy, which include an easier labor and delivery, a higher likelihood of a vaginal birth, a decreased risk of gestational diabetes - and of course, a healthier baby. You already have plenty on your mind so keep it simple, healthy and focused on nourishing habits that will benefit you and your baby.


Remember you are alone. There are lots of great resources to assist with healthy eating and nutrition.

- For healthy snacking tips read Healthy Pregnancy Faire: Tips, Tricks & Snacking Ideas
- For exercise tips and tricks read more at the post Pregnancy and Exercise - Tips and Tricks


What do you think - do you agree or disagree with Thornton's findings? What have your experiences been with weight gain during pregnancy? What have you learned through from your doctor or trusted resources? Join the discussion.


Here are several places to read more about Thorton's study:

CVS Health Resources - Fewer New Pounds in Pregnancy Best for Obese Moms
MedicineNet.com - Pregnancy: No Weight Gain for Obese Women?
ScienceDaily.com- Obese Women Should Not Gain Weight During Pregnancy, Study Suggests
WebMD - Pregnancy: No Weight Gain for Obese Women?
Study Suggests No Pregnancy Weight Gain for Obese Women Who Get Nutritional Guidance


Additional pregnancy and weight resources:

BabyCenter.com - Pregnancy weight gain: What to expect
WhatToExpect.com - Eating Well During Pregnancy: Weight Gain and Eating Right During Pregnancy