MODULE 5

The amount of weight you should gain during pregnancy depends on your pre pregnancy BMI (Body Mass Index).

Women who are underweight before pregnancy should gain more weight than women who are heavier. If you are younger than 20 years old, your weight gain should be as close as possible to the maximum recommended weight gain. If you are pregnant with more than one baby your weight gain needs will increase.

To find out how much weight you should gain, use the following formula. You must know your height and weight before your pregnancy.

http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/nutrition/prenatal/bmi/index-eng.php

It is natural and healthy to gain weight during your pregnancy. The weight you gain will help create a healthy baby, keep you healthy, and get your body ready for breastfeeding. This is not a good time to lose weight!

What did you feed your baby today?

During pregnancy, you are your baby's universe. When you eat, you are feeding your baby too. What you eat during pregnancy can make a difference in your baby's growth and development.

Healthy eating can also improve your own health during pregnancy. It may help prevent or control some of the discomforts of pregnancy like nausea, constipation, and heartburn.

Developing healthy eating habits now will help you, your baby, and your family stay healthy for life.