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The Great Pregnancy Myth: Debunking the Old Wives’ Tale of Eating Less for an Easier Birth

Pregnancy and nutrition are often a topic of discussion, with many old wives' tales circulating. One such tale warns that overeating during pregnancy will lead to a difficult labor. The logic behind this is that the mother's weight gain might not translate to adequate nutrition for the baby, and could even cause complications during childbirth. But is there any truth to this?

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4 August, 2024

## Is Eating Less and Gaining Less Weight During Pregnancy Good or Bad?

A 1993 study by Dr. Gadsby’s team (USA) found that 90% of women experience nausea or vomiting during early pregnancy. This can lead to weight loss and digestive issues, affecting both mother and child.

Additionally, research by Abrams et al. (1995), Hickey (1995), and Siega-Riz (1994) suggests that women who gain insufficient weight during pregnancy are at risk of preterm labor, low birth weight, and potential brain damage in their infants.

However, according to nutrition experts, gaining less than 9 kg can lower a mother’s risk of developing hypertension.

See also: A collection of effective and quick weight loss methods.

## Weight Gain Within Limits:

While gaining too little weight is concerning, rapid and excessive weight gain is also detrimental. Therefore, mothers should aim to maintain their weight within a healthy range.

Experts recommend a weight gain of 9-12 kg during pregnancy. Excessive weight gain may lead to a cesarean section due to an oversized baby.

Moreover, staying within the recommended weight range reduces the likelihood of pregnancy complications.

Thus, extreme dieting during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, is unhealthy and can impact the well-being of both mother and child. Overeating is also not advisable as it may increase the risk of complications during childbirth.

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Both overeating and extreme dieting can be harmful to mother and child. It is best to aim for a weight gain of 9-12 kg during pregnancy while ensuring adequate nutrition.

Frequently asked questions

No, this is a myth. There is no scientific evidence to support the idea that eating less will make childbirth easier. In fact, it is important for pregnant women to maintain a healthy diet and adequate nutrition to support the growth and development of the baby.

The origin of this myth is unclear, but it has been perpetuated by word-of-mouth and traditional beliefs in many cultures. It may have arisen from the idea that a smaller baby will be easier to deliver, or from the notion that eating less will reduce the risk of complications during childbirth.

It is important to debunk this myth because it can lead to unhealthy eating habits and nutritional deficiencies in pregnant women. Restricting food intake can deprive the body of essential nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy and can have negative impacts on both the mother and the baby’s health.

The amount of weight gain during pregnancy can vary depending on the individual’s pre-pregnancy weight and body mass index (BMI). Generally, it is recommended that women with a normal BMI gain between 25-35 pounds during pregnancy. Underweight women should aim for a higher amount of weight gain, while overweight or obese women may need to gain less.

Pregnant women should focus on eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods. This includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It is also important to stay hydrated by drinking enough water and limiting intake of sugary drinks. Prenatal vitamins can help ensure that both mother and baby are getting the necessary nutrients.