fit for life (TM)

Zero Weight Gain During Pregnancy Debate

The New York Times Well Blog recent sparked some serious debate when they published the following article on their well blog:  Zero Weight Gain During Pregnancy
I posted my simple albeit short comment on the NYTimes Well Blog and I guess pissed a few women off.  So to clarify, I decided to write this post in the hope that some folks might understand my perspective.
I know a lot of women who gained (and lost) a lot of weight (in excess of 50 pounds) during all their pregnancies.  However, there was little or no concern because most of them were being actively monitored by the OB + Midwife, and were fit and healthy prior to getting pregnant. 
All my clients (pregnant and otherwise) learn to take a proactive and healthy approach to eating, moving and playing so that issues around gaining weight during pregnancy or life are handled in a supportive and healthy way.  Eating well is challenging and difficult for everyone but it is essential to good health.

My intention in writing comments is to be instructive and specific rather than simply post my opinion.  If this appears to clinical or too “instructive” for some the reason is simple:  My job is to help people make hard decisions that will get them feeling better and moving better through life.
- One very important methodological note that I did not express in my post.

I believe in the idea that Calories are not AS Important as Nutrient Value.  Hence I would argue forcefully that Pregnant women should be MOST Focused on eating: 
- Leafy Green Organic Vegetables
- Lean Sources of Protein
- High Quality and Pure Omega 3 Fats including from small fish and flax/other sources
- Supplement their diet with a well rounded “whole food” Prenatal Vitamin like New Chapter’s “Perfect Prenatal” or other.  M.D./OB are not always on top of this.
- Find a great Midwife to work with and perhaps speak with someone who is Licensed in Prenatal Nutrition.

Here’s my NYTIMES POST.
“The demands of pregnancy can be significant even for non-overweight or de-conditioned women. The underlying message that should be taken away from these recommendations are simple. If you are interested in getting pregnant and having a happy, healthy and successful pregnancy and life after birth then:
 

Prepare your body and mind in advance by losing excess body fat , conditioning your body and beginning a “core training” program to strengthen your pelvic floor and other muscles for the demands of labor and beyond.”