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Start Healthy, Stay Healthy Nutrition Guide

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Pregnancy Wellness

Question

I'm only 8 weeks along and I've already gained 10 pounds. What's happening?

Answer

Every woman’s body is different, so weight gain naturally will vary throughout pregnancy. But you’re wise to be concerned about an early and rapid gain of 10 pounds.

It’s unusual to see a weight gain at 8 weeks, so it’s a good idea to discuss your concerns with your doctor. If you were underweight before you became pregnant there’s probably no need to worry. However, if you were at a normal weight or overweight before becoming pregnant, you need to pay special attention to your diet for the rest of your pregnancy.

Focus on nutrient-packed foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein sources, and calcium-rich foods. Avoid fatty foods and those that are fried.

MEET OUR EXPERTS

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Meet Our Experts

The START HEALTHY, STAY HEALTHY™ Resource Center panel of experts offers practical advice, answering many questions typically asked by parents and expecting parents.

Lillian M. Beard, M.D. Pediatric Health

Lillian M. Beard, M.D., is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and an associate clinical professor at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She is a frequent guest expert and spokesperson on national TV programs, discussing issues related to children's health. Dr. Beard practices pediatrics in the Washington, D.C., area.

José M. Saavedra, M.D., FAAP Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition

José M. Saavedra, M.D., a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, is a pediatric gastroenterologist with long-term experience and expertise in nutrition. Medical and Scientific Director of Nestlé Nutrition North America, Dr. Saavedra is board-certified by the American Board of Pediatrics, the Sub-board of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, and the American Board of Nutrition. He is also an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Gastroenterology and Nutrition, at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and the Johns Hopkins-Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Roy M. Pitkin, M.D. Prenatal Health

Roy M. Pitkin, M.D. is professor of obstetrics and gynecology and is former chairperson of the ob/gyn department at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), School of Medicine. He is a frequent advisor to national health agencies concerned with women's health issues and has received numerous international honors for this work.

Robert N. Hamburger, M.D. Food Intolerances

Robert N. Hamburger, M.D. is professor of pediatrics emeritus and former head of the pediatric immunology and allergy division at the University of California San Diego (UCSD) in La Jolla, California. Professor Hamburger is a consultant and continues as an educator and clinician in the UCSD Free Clinics in San Diego and Tijuana, Baja California.

I know I should quit smoking cigarettes for my own health. But does my smoking affect the baby? I'm only in my eighth month but sometimes I feel uterine contractions. Is that possible? I'm getting the nursery ready and I'm sanding and stripping the paint off the woodwork. Can this harm my unborn baby?