How To Avoid Big Belly During Pregnancy

During her second month of pregnancy, my cousin Jenny discovered snacking as a secret remedy for morning sickness. Since then, everything has been running smoothly.

But,

While she experiences less nausea and vomiting, Jenny is now weightier, and her bump seems to grow rapidly.

Weight gain is normal during pregnancy. Surprisingly, the pounds are distributed around your belly, legs, and arms.

Can you prevent excessive weight on your belly? Yes! In this article, I’ll explain possible factors influencing tummy weight, and practical tips on how to avoid big belly during pregnancy.

How To Avoid Big Belly During Pregnancy Easily?

Some ways to prevent getting a big belly while pregnant include eating a balanced diet, hydration, cutting on simple carbs, and exercising. Start making gradual adjustments early on your meal plans with the help of a dietician. Additionally, try simple exercises first before moving to complex ones. Confirm with your doctor if your pregnancy is low-risk when embarking on any fitness regimen.

Contrary to most common myths, a big belly doesn’t always mean you’re carrying a huge baby. Numerous factors may make you look and feel bigger. If you’ve had a previous pregnancy, your belly will likely expand faster due to the already-stretched abdominal skin and muscles.

Gaining weight is the most notorious factor contributing to a massive change in shape and size. The unmanaged extra pounds during pregnancy may cause preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, hypertension, and preterm births.

However, women respond differently. Some are naturally prone to gaining more pounds than others. Further, body weight distribution varies from person to person.

So, while you try your best to stay within the recommended limit, do not let it over-stress you. I know sometimes pregnancy cravings can be uncontrollable. Nevertheless, choose healthier, nutritious substitutes that benefit you and your munchkin.

Factors Determining Belly Size During Pregnancy

Why do some women have a cute, sizeable bump while others look big or overstretched? Well, there are various factors determining the size of a pregnant belly, including:

1. Weight gain –As you gain extra weight while pregnant, the fats are distributed to your middle section, including the tummy area and hips. This explains why there’s a need to achieve safe weight gain.

In fact, according to the American Pregnancy Association, you should gain 1-4.5 pounds in the first trimester and 1-2 pounds weekly during the second and third trimesters. Any excessive weight gain will manifest on your belly.

2. Amniotic fluid – If you have excessive amniotic fluid, your belly may feel weighty and bigger. Polyhydramnios is a rare condition that often needs medical attention. Too little amniotic fluid is also not healthy for your baby. Experts say the fluid shouldn’t be below or above one liter.

3. Size of the unborn baby – Though not always, you can tell the size of your little one by looking at the belly. Big or obese babies may make your bump appear bigger.

The large size could result from gestational diabetes or another underlying medical condition. Consult your doctor for timely scans, diagnosis, and treatment.

4. The posture of the mother – If you’re used to sitting or standing in a drooping position, it may make your bump larger. The posture relaxes your muscles over time, making them stretchier. An upright posture is the best as it keeps the muscles intact.

5. Maternal structure and baby’s position – How your abdomen hips and pelvis is structured dictates the belly size/appearance. A tiny, thin woman is likelier to have a protruding baby bump than their short, plump counterpart. A baby lying across the womb (transverse) gives you a different shape from when they are in the posterior position.

6. Mother’s height and size – Taller Mothers may present small-sized tummies that could be positioned high or lower. Conversely, shorter women present larger bumps since the baby has less space to fit and move.

6 Tips On How To Prevent Big Belly During Pregnancy

Are you thinking, “How can I avoid a big belly during pregnancy?” Don’t worry. Some helpful tips to avoid gaining too much weight include:

1. Eat a balanced diet

Unhealthy eating is the main cause of excessive weight gain. Go for nutritious foods that can keep you feeling full for longer.

Additionally, take meals rich in proteins, fiber, healthy fats, and proteins as they are easy to digest and beneficial to you and your baby.

Fresh apples, Greek yogurt, berries, and oranges are good sources of water and fiber, aiding digestion.

Take smaller, frequent meals instead of huge proportions at once. Remember to refuel when necessary.

2. Mind your food cravings

While sometimes you can’t control pregnancy cravings, choosing healthy options is wise. For example, you can improve a craving for doughnuts by topping them with many sliced fresh vegetables. Substitute what’s unhealthy with nutritious ones.

3. Stay hydrated

Drinking water helps keep the pregnancy’s water weight at bay. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend drinking 8-12 cups of water daily.

Fresh orange and coconut juices are also healthy options but use them sparingly since they are rich in natural sugars and calories. Water is also great for preventing weight gain.

4. Substitute simple carbs with complex ones

While carbs offer quick relief from morning sickness, take caution when eating them. White bread, rice, baked buns, and pasta are simple carbs that may raise your blood sugar. Complex carbs, including brown bread/rice, fruits, and beans, are nutritious, healthier, and more satisfying.

5. Exercise regularly

Starting with a simple 10-minute walk daily is an excellent way of staying active and burning calories. You may progress to other pregnancy-friendly exercises after getting approval from your doctor. No matter the exercise regimen you choose, always listen to your body.

6. Take proper nap

Insufficient sleep may cause stress, indirectly leading to weight gain. Unfortunately, most pregnant women struggle with loss of sleep. Don’t panic. Create a regular sleep/wake cycle, and use a maternity pillow to improve sleep quality.

Wrapping Up

Most women often seek to learn how to avoid big belly during pregnancy.

Factors including excessive amniotic fluid, maternal height, baby’s size, and extra weight may contribute to your belly size.

Eating healthy, exercising, avoiding simple carbs, and taking fluids are tips on how not to get a big belly when pregnant.

Consult your doctor for advice about healthy weight gain and treatment of any underlying medical conditions causing the extra pounds.

How To Avoid Big Belly During Pregnancy – 6 Practical Ways