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Congratulations on your pregnancy!
I know that the changes to your body can be a bit overwhelming during pregnancy. However, this is not the time to try to loose weight. You do not need a significant amount of additional calories (300-800 depending on your starting weight) In fact, if you does not get proper nutrition it could effect your baby's development. The pregnant body needs extra body fat to provide energy for your growing child as well as a calorie reserve for your milk supply postpartum.
However, but depending on how overweight the person is, some weight control may be safe. Registered Dietitian, Mimi Harrison suggested “I would advise any pregnant woman who was overweight or obese prior to pregnancy & wants to avoid excessive weight gain to follow a diet low in saturated fat, but relatively high in unsaturated fats that are critical for fetal brain development - esp. Omega-3 fats like flaxseed & its oil, walnuts & low mercury fish (sardines, flounder, salmon, cod). She should also focus on mild strength training to promote muscle gain instead of excess fat.”
As for the second part of your question, when to start prenatal yoga, you can start at any time. Some women experience a lot of nausea and fatigue and find it difficult to come to class during the first trimester. But if you are feeling well, you can certainly start in your first trimester. The class focuses on the needs of the students. So it doesn’t really matter which point in your pregnancy you are, we will do our best to accommodate your needs and requests.
If you want to consult further with the Mimi Harrison, the registered dietitian, her number is (917) 544-6766.
Good luck with your journey through your pregnancy!
Hope to see you in class.
Deb
Last edited by Deb : 01-03-2008 at 02:04 PM.
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