Fit Pregnancy Story

As a busy mom with two jobs and two kids under 4, it was extremely challenging to focus on myself. With the exciting news of my third baby on the way, my health was taking a hit.

 

According to my therapist, I had reached an overweight condition. Over the course of two years, I had gained 36 pounds, and as someone who is conscientious, I assumed it would take me another two years to lose the weight. But losing weight wasn’t my main priority until I found out I was pregnant again.

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I knew I needed to make a change. I had read plenty of books and articles in the past, but at that time, I felt lost. My busy life and the extra weight were overwhelming.

 

My doctor warned me that I was at a high risk for complications, such as miscarriage, gestational diabetes, liver and kidney damage, or even the need for a C-section. My baby’s health was also at risk, with potential issues like disorders, asthma, obesity, or brain damage.

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I knew I had to act. I started by changing my diet. I had been eating out half of the time, often grabbing fast food, but I cut it down to once or twice a week, avoiding fast food altogether. I focused on a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and fish, eliminating red meat, chicken, pork, and seafood. I included healthy fats like avocados, coconut, olives, flaxseeds, pistachios, and cashews, and chose sprouted bread and tortillas. I also started tracking my calorie intake using an app.

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To plan my meals, I used the menus of popular prepared meal companies as a guide. I didn’t buy their pre-made meals, but I looked at the ingredients and made my own meals with what I had in my pantry.

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After a month on this diet, I took a test to check my vitamin and mineral levels. It turned out I was lacking in some areas, especially vegetables. Despite eating a lot of vegetables, I needed to include more. My doctor recommended a "Pregnancy Multivitamin" for baby development and a supplement called "Veggie Power" for added vegetable nutrients.

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The next round of tests showed much better results, and I felt more energetic. With this boost, I started making changes to my exercise routine, focusing on pregnancy-safe exercises. I began with walking and light jogging, and then incorporated weights, resistance bands, and stationary cycling. I worked out for 60 minutes every day, alternating between cardiovascular exercises and weight training. On my cardio days, I invited a friend to jog with me.

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Now, exercise has become a daily habit, and after my pregnancy, I continued this routine. There were some ups and downs along the way, with my weight fluctuating during the adaptation period, but consistency was key. By the time my baby was born, I had lost 34 pounds in about 8 months.

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I still enjoy treats like cake, donuts, or ice cream, but only once or twice a week and in moderation.

 

For me, my baby's health was the turning point in making these changes. Food was my biggest challenge, so I started there, then added in exercise.

 

If you’re struggling too, identify your biggest challenge and start with that. There are plenty of good plans out there—find one that works for you.

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Pamela