How Much Weight-Gain Is Healthy For Pregnancy? |
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Weighting the Weight
Your baby will weigh in around seven and a half pounds, give or take. If you’re a normal weight, you can expect to gain 25-35 lbs. during pregnancy. About 7.5 lbs of that is baby, so what is the rest? Here’s a break-down:
Weight |
Composition |
7lbs |
Fat, protein and nutrients stored to nourish your child |
4lbs |
Increased fluid |
4lbs |
Increased blood (blood doubles in volume during pregnancy) |
3.5lbs |
Uterine growth, including tissue and the placenta |
2lbs |
Breast growth, which includes increased fat and more milk ducts |
2lbs |
Amniotic fluid that encases your child and keeps him or her safe |
7.5lbs |
Your baby's weight |
Total: 30lbs |
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Of course, the amount you gain can and should vary depending on your starting weight. If you’re of a normal weight, a 25-30 lb weight gain is perfect. However, if you’re a teen or underweight, you’ll need to gain 30-40 lbs to have a healthy baby. If you’re overweight, you’re going to want to gain 15-25 lbs. This is not the time to diet, though. By making very healthy food choices and limiting sweets and other empty calories, you should be able to keep your gain at the minimum. |
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