9 Plus-Size Pregnancy Tips

Take care of yourself and your baby with these healthy ideas.

By Gina Bevinetto

If you're overweight, pregnancy can be challenging because you're prone to complications such as gestational diabetes, especially if you gain too much. Marlene Clark, coauthor of Carrying a Little Extra: A Guide to Healthy Pregnancy for the Plus-Size Woman (Berkley), offers tips to get you on the right track.

1. Eat regular meals. Stick to breakfast, lunch, dinner, and two snacks. Take in 1,800 to 2,400 calories a day (which may be less than what you're eating now). Erratic eating habits often contribute to weight gain.

2. Keep a food diary. You can consult the diary, along with your doctor or nutritionist, to see what modifications to make (such as reducing portion size) if you're gaining too much or not gaining enough.

3. Avoid juices and sweet beverages. These are packed with calories. Drink only nonfat milk, water, or unsweetened beverages.

4. Keep in mind that weight gain doesn't have to start until the second trimester. Then you should gain only two to three pounds a month -- 15 to 20 pounds total.

5. Get some exercise. Even just walking, for at least 15 minutes a day, can make a difference.

6. Avoid simple sugars. Choose complex carbohydrates, such as whole-grain breads and cereals, fruits, and vegetables.

7. Eat healthy, high-protein snacks. Try a mini whole-wheat bagel with peanut butter.

8. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day. Staying hydrated will help you eat less.

9. Try to get 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day. High-fiber cereal and whole grains will fill you up.

All content on this Web site, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.

Topics in Pregnancy Complications