For any woman, gaining extra weight is the greatest fear. However, when you are pregnant, you cannot control it, either because this weight gain is for a reason. Poor weight gain indicates inadequate nutrition for the baby. But abnormal heaviness can be a matter of concern. In that case, discuss your problems with your dietitian and physician.

For any normal case, weight gain is around 25 to 35 pounds. Normal weight gain starts with 7 to 10 pounds in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. There is half-pound increase in weight in each of the following weeks. Weight gain of more than 4 pounds each week can be a sign of severe fluid retention in the body.

For the already over-weight mothers, the total weight gain should not exceed 20 pounds. For heavyweight mothers there is increased chance of a cesarean. Mothers having multiple conceptions should obviously gain more weight. Typically for twin gestation, the weight gain should be around 35 to 45 pounds.

Healthy diet with proper workouts can help the expectant mother to manage their weight gain. A normal woman generally should consume around 2000 calories each day and being pregnant, you have to increase this intake by 300 calories. Do not use pregnancy as a reason to eat abnormally, let your appetite be your guide. Women who gain too much weight during pregnancy often suffer from depression when they are unable to regain their pre-pregnancy weight.

After nine months of a grueling wait, your little bundle of joy has finally arrived. Your home is resounding with the baby’s cries and crowded by the newly turned grandmas, grandpas, uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews. You hardly have time to breathe, nevertheless, there is always the nagging feeling at the back of your mind about those extra kilos you need to shed.

Though getting back your svelte figure may seem an uphill task if you follow these rules it might be easier:

1. Firstly, eat healthy foods and find a balance between taking care of yourself and of everybody else.
2. Ask your doctor when you can start exercising but it is usually best for you to wait for at least 6weeks after giving birth i.e. after your postpartum checkup.
3. Your workout routine must include cardio training for at least thrice a week. This includes walking, running, swimming or aerobics for 30 to 60 minutes.
4. Some weight lifting tones your body, since the more muscles you have the more calories your body will burn.
5. If you are breastfeeding, you need extra intake of calories, ask your doctor for a balanced diet chart. But, if you are overweight, you might not need as much calories. However, if you are not breastfeeding, begin with a well-adjusted diet of wholesome and nourishing food and never skip meals. This may only add to your problem.
6. Get hold of workout programs that are specifically planned keeping in mind breastfeeding moms who want to slim down.
7. Drink plenty of fluids.
8. Finally, do not lose hope. It may take time but results are guaranteed.

Motherhood brings new responsibilities and takes a lot of time from your life. This may not be the easiest time for you to diet and loose weight but do not be discouraged.