Using MyFitnessPal to maintain health during pregnancy?

KarynMcMullen
KarynMcMullen Posts: 3
edited November 13 in Goal: Maintaining Weight
Hi all! I gained 65 pounds during my first pregnancy. My son is now 9 months old am pregnant with baby #2. I am hoping to maintain a healthier weight this time around. Has anyone used MyFitnessPal during pregnancy and did it help?!

Replies

  • Calipalm
    Calipalm Posts: 114 Member
    Hey! Prior to my 2nd pregnancy I used myfitnesspal and lost 40lbs. So when I started my 2nd pregnancy I still used this app. It did help immensely. However I gained way more then I would have liked. But that's because I wasn't really avoided unnecessary calories because I was indulging too much in the pregnancy cravings and I didn't exercise as much as I could have. I did Zumba throughout my pregnancy and sometimes I used the elliptical but I realize now that I should have been more consistent with walking or using the elliptical to do basic activities to keep me active during my pregnancy. Had I done that and made a goal of walking three times a week during my pregnancy I know that I would've had a better success. So in the end what I'm saying is that I know that you can have the success that you want as long as you set little many goals and try her hardest my fitness pal can be a great tool to helping you gain only the necessary weight during your pregnancy I'm here if you need any help or have any questions good luck!
  • ashleykaye2012
    ashleykaye2012 Posts: 2 Member
    Hi! I'm 29 weeks pregnant and have gained 13 lbs so far (which my doctor says is right on target). You should always consult your doctor about using weight loss tools during pregnancy, because every pregnancy is different, but I discussed using MFP with my doctor and she advised that it's best used in the 1st and 2nd trimester as a way to track nutrition (you only need approximately 300 extra calories while pregnant). She advised me to use it to make sure I was getting enough protein, calcium and other nutrients in my diet (as opposed to focusing on the calorie intake) and to keep myself accountable for the amount of sugar and sodium I was eating. It was really helpful/motivating in curbing sweet and salty cravings and also helped me manage my morning sickness. Entering the third trimester, my doctor advised me to set my MFP goal to "gaining .5 lb a week". So far, I would say it has definitely been helpful in keeping me eating enough of the right things (needless to say I have my appetite back!) and making sure my weight doesn't explode in these final weeks.

    Again - you should definitely talk with your doctor before making any changes, but I think using MFP to log your food at the very least keeps you in the habit (making it easier to get right back into your routine post-pregnancy!) and also keeps you mindful of what you might be eating too much of (sea salt & vinegar chips with orange sherbet anyone?!) or what you are getting too little of (calcium for me!).

    Managing your weight during pregnancy is totally doable! Good luck!
  • KarynMcMullen
    KarynMcMullen Posts: 3
    Thanks Calipalm!!! Very encouraging!!
  • KarynMcMullen
    KarynMcMullen Posts: 3
    Awesome AshleyKaye2012!! That is what I am hoping as well... to use it to keep me mindful of the what I am taking in and making sure I am getting enough of the right stuff. Let's face it... I could eat a whole pizza everyday if it was allowed ;) I also struggle getting the calcium which is another key driver for me to use the App. I will absolutely speak with the doctor about how to best use the tool. Thanks!
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