Advice about Overweight and Health Risks

Women who are overweight or obese and who would like to become pregnant should speak with their health care provider about losing weight before becoming pregnant. Pre-pregnancy weight loss significantly reduces pregnancy complications. Pregnant women who are overweight or obese should speak with their health care provider about limiting gestational weight gain and being physically active during pregnancy.

Losing excess weight after delivery may help women reduce their health risks. If a woman developed gestational diabetes, losing weight will lower her risk of developing diabetes later in life.

So. I think you want to ask me a question!

How can I lower my health risks?

If you are overweight, losing as little as 5 percent of your body weight may lower your risk for several diseases, including coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes. If you weigh 200 pounds, this means losing 10 pounds. Slow and steady weight loss of 1/2 to 2 pounds per week, and not more than 3 pounds per week, is the safest way to lose weight.

To lose weight and keep it off over time, try to make long-term changes in your eating and physical activity habits. Choose healthy foods, such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and low-fat meat and dairy products more often. Eat just enough food to satisfy you. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, such as walking, on most or all days of the week. To lose weight, or to maintain weight loss, you will likely need to do more than 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily.

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Article Source: NIH Publication No. 07– 4098