WEIGHT GAIN AND PREGNANCY

Dr. Claude Allouche, Gynecologist
Ahuza Clinic, Raanana, Israel
058 726 02 64

How do I know if I am gaining too much weight during my pregnancy?

Weight gain during pregnancy is both normal and necessary. In the absence of specific instructions from your doctor or midwife, it's important not to restrict your diet, as this could lead to significant nutritional deficiencies for both you and your baby.

A weight gain of approximately 12 kg is generally recommended. This supports a healthy pregnancy and childbirth without complications, and also facilitates an easier return to your pre-pregnancy weight. However, this figure is just an average and can vary based on your pre-pregnancy weight. For those expecting twins, the additional recommended weight gain is around 3 to 4 kg.

It is essential to monitor your weight gain with the help of your healthcare provider. If you were overweight prior to pregnancy, you are at a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes, making medical supervision crucial. In such cases, dietary guidance is provided to help manage weight gain.

During pregnancy, it's important to avoid weight loss diets and instead focus on maintaining a healthy diet to prevent excessive weight gain. Reducing your intake of fast-absorbing carbohydrates—such as cakes, candies, chocolates, and sugary drinks—can be beneficial for both you and your baby.