By The easy way to maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy
I remember back when I was pregnant with my daughter. It seems so long ago, but I will never forget how “big” I became. In retrospect, the word big refers to my usual shape, small and compact. Then as a pregnant woman, that all changed. Much of it had to do with debilitating morning sickness — but I could have become a lot more conscious of my eating and exercise habits. That’s not always easy to do anything with your head in the toilet. So I’m not entirely sure why pastries seemed to ease my suffering. Perhaps it was all psychological. Although 16 years later have almost passed since that time, I can’t help but feel that I would change many things if I had the chance to do it all again. One of the best ways to eliminate excess weight gain during pregnancy is simply walking. One study undertaken by Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that pregnant women who lived in walkable neighbourhoods in NYC were less likely to increase their weight excessively than those in poorer communities. As you might suspect, excessive or lack of weight gain during pregnancy creates health risks for pregnant women and babies. Excessive weight gain increases pregnancy complications, including hypertension and postpartum weight retention. Children also have a higher risk of developing asthma and obesity. Women who lived near walkable neighbourhoods had an excellent all-around physical activity with a lower body mass index. Walkable neighbourhoods are also associated with better blood sugar control among type two diabetes. Senior author Andrew Rundle, DrPH, professor of epidemiology, noted: “ A significant amount of the exercise pregnant women get comes from low impact activities like walking”. “It’s in our best interests to make neighbourhoods more walkable as it creates a host of health benefits for both those currently living there and future generations.” This proves just how much of an impact walking can have on any of us. It’s safe, easy and doesn’t require anything, apart from a good pair of shoes. So, next time you think that perhaps you aren’t doing enough exercise — or wish to do more but don’t know where to start. Why not take the advice from this post and start walking within your neighbourhood. It’s a great way to start your health journey, even if you aren’t pregnant. This is a great way to keep your weight under control and increase your chances of sustaining fitness levels during pregnancy. Plus, you’re going to give your baby the best start in life. Who could ask for more? Please read more about these findings here if you are interested.
If you would like to read more articles like this or start writing your own, please sign up via my link. I’d love to see you on the other side. Sign up here for your medium subscription. I get a portion from your monthly fee at no extra cost to you, and it will go a long way in supporting me as a writer. If you would like to express gratitude with coffee, send the love via this .