Dieting During Pregnancy
By Mediconsult's Nutrition Services
Q. Is dieting okay during pregnancy?
A. Intentional weight loss is NEVER advised during pregnancy. Cease a weight loss effort once pregnancy is established. Pregnancy hormones change the mother's metabolism and, as a result, production of ketones occurs more quickly in pregnant women than others when calories are restricted. Ketones are toxic to the fetus. For women who begin pregnancy at a high weight, weight gain goals for pregnancy are set lower. None-the-less, weight gain is always the objective. If a slower rate of weight gain is advised and cutting back calories is suggested during pregnancy, this should be done moderately and under the supervision of your physician.
