During pregnancy, a woman's body accumulates nutrients to support fetal formation and development. Depending on individual constitution, some pregnant women may experience uncontrolled weight gain, leading to overweight or obesity. This increases the risk of gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, difficult birth, or delayed postpartum milk production.

Master, Doctor Nguyen Anh Duy Tung, from the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at Tam Anh District 7 Polyclinic, states that the recommended weight gain throughout pregnancy is based on a woman's pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI), typically ranging from 11,5 to 16 kg.

To ensure a healthy pregnancy, Doctor Tung advises expectant mothers to adhere to a diet rich in essential nutrients: calcium, folic acid, iron, DHA, protein, and vitamins A and D. Structuring meals according to these principles helps ensure healthy development of the fetus's organs, and normal functioning of the nervous, immune, and cardiovascular systems. Pregnant women should prioritize vegetables, fruits, grains, lean meats, and omega-3-rich fatty fish, while avoiding alcohol and limiting caffeine-containing beverages.

Many first-time pregnant women mistakenly believe that significant weight gain indicates better fetal development. Doctor Tung explains that consuming excessive amounts of fat, sugar, and refined carbohydrates, coupled with a lack of fresh vegetables and fruits, can lead to an excess of lipids and sodium in the body, causing water retention and uncontrolled weight gain.

Controlling weight appropriately during pregnancy helps ensure the health of both mother and baby. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Doctor Duy Tung notes that formula milk for pregnant women is nutrient-rich. However, consuming too much or misusing this milk can also lead to overweight or obesity for the mother. It should be used correctly and in appropriate dosages as advised by a doctor to support optimal fetal development.

During pregnancy, hormonal and metabolic changes facilitate fetal development. Increased levels of hormones like progesterone and estrogen can affect a mother's appetite and lead to water and fat retention. Beyond weight gain, these changes often accompany symptoms of fatigue and irritability.

Alongside a balanced diet, regular light exercise also contributes to weight management. Doctors recommend activities such as walking, prenatal yoga, or swimming to enhance the pregnant woman's health without placing undue stress on the body.

Expectant mothers need adequate rest and a calm, stable mindset. Prolonged stress and lack of sleep can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to uncontrolled cravings, especially for sweets. To maintain health, pregnant women should establish habits like going to bed early, reading, listening to music, and engaging in conversations with those around them.

If a pregnant woman shows signs of rapid weight gain, regular weight monitoring is crucial for proactively adjusting diet and lifestyle. Consistent prenatal check-ups allow doctors to provide tailored advice based on the mother's physical condition and the fetus's development, ensuring health for both and preventing exceeding recommended weight limits.

Quoc An