Prenatal Care.

Are you planning on having a baby or are you pregnant now? Planning meals for you and your baby requires education and practice.

• Do you eat enough foods with calcium and iron?

• Do you tend to skip meals?

• Are you taking a vitamin supplement?

• Do you have any family history of diabetes?

• What physical activity and or exercise do you do weekly?

Weight gain for the mom — what to expect:

One to three months (adults): two to four pounds weight gain.

One to three months (teens): four to six pounds weight gain.

Three to six months: three pounds per month.

Six to nine months: one pound per week.

Needed weight gain will vary based on weight prior to conception.

Appropriate weight gain of twenty-five to thirty pounds is desirable. This will vary depending upon your prior health and weight. If you are underweight, you may need to gain more. If you are overweight, you may need to gain less.

Medical Nutrition Network will provide:

• Pre-conception nutrition and health assessment to begin your pregnancy at optimum health.

• Specific guidelines to promote gradual weight gain during a healthy pregnancy.

• Outline of a care plan for breastfeeding and bottle-feeding.

• Guidance for maintaining the mother’s health after delivery.