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.

There could be chances of neurological damage to the fetus and seafood like shark, swordfish, tuna, sea bass or other types of large fish should be avoided as they contain high levels of methyl mercury. If you are fond of eating fish, you can go for small amounts of catfish, Farm-raised trout, Pacific salmon or fish sticks.

Parasitic disease like Toxoplasmosis is caused consuming raw meats in the form of hamburgers or pork. Toxoplasmosis can result in E.coli infection and the fatal intrauterine fetal infection.

Unwashed vegetables, soil and cat feces are believed to contain toxoplamosic parasites. Toxic e.coli can be found in raw or even rare hamburger. Therefore, hamburgers and pork should be cooked in temperatures more than 170 degrees to avoid such infections.

Undercooked molluscan shellfish, which includes oysters, clams, and mussels are known to cause bacterial, parasitic and viral infections (including hepatitis A).

Salmonella is transmitted if you consume raw chicken or even come in contact with it. Salmonella may not harm the fetus but can severely harm you by causing Diarrhea and dehydration.

Raw eggs in Caesar salads and eggnog may cause salmonella. Inadequately pasteurized milk or even soft cheeses harbor Listeria. Miscarriage, premature birth, and blood poisoning are caused by Listeriosis. Pate also might contain Listeria. Aspartame as a sweetener should be restricted during pregnancy.

Take a nutritious and healthy diet to ensure good health for you and your baby.