20 Weeks Pregnant and Have Gained Close to 15 pounds...HELP!

kamakazeekim
kamakazeekim Posts: 1,183 Member
in Health and Weight Loss
I'm almost 20 weeks pregnant and experiencing insatiable hunger! I usually eat mostly fruits and veggies but I'm CRAVING crap...like little Debbies, oreos, and frappuccinos...even though I eat it in moderation I'm gaining weight like crazy! I have to be militant in diet due to a hormone disorder otherwise I gain weight insanely fast! I know some weight gain is normal in pregnancy but I worked so hard to lose about 140 pounds and now to see the scale go up is hugely anxiety and depression invoking. I was about 126 when I got pregnant and I'm now already up to 139 :'( How do I slow the weight gain down and deal with these cravings??? I haven't been logging since getting pregnant really which I know I need to get back to. Like I said...I primarily eat fruits and veggies...watermelon and cantaloupe make up the bulk of what I eat with an occasional banana, plum or nectarine. I eat veggies more infrequently....mostly green beans, pea pods, broccoli, carrots and radishes. I eat meat maybe once or twice a week. I have about 1 bagel a week with turkey and/or ham with cheese on it. My downfall lately is that I've been eating cereal about twice a week, a Little Debbie snack or 3 Oreos a day, 1 or 2 frappuccinos a week, an an average of 4 cans of pop a week. I KNOW I need to get my calories under control but how do I deal with the CONSTANT hunger and cravings?????? HELP!!!
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Replies

  • Sarah4fitness
    Sarah4fitness Posts: 437 Member
    Given your pregnancy and your hormonal issues, I'd advise you to stay off the forums and talk directly with your doctor for advice.
  • queenliz99
    queenliz99 Posts: 15,317 Member
    Sarah4fitness wrote: »
    Given your pregnancy and your hormonal issues, I'd advise you to stay off the forums and talk directly with your doctor for advice.

    +1000
  • Bshmerlie
    Bshmerlie Posts: 1,026 Member
    This is supposed to be a happy time in your life and instead you are making it stressfull. See your doctor.
  • Ninkyou
    Ninkyou Posts: 6,666 Member
    queenliz99 wrote: »
    Sarah4fitness wrote: »
    Given your pregnancy and your hormonal issues, I'd advise you to stay off the forums and talk directly with your doctor for advice.

    +1000

    +5000
  • mommyrunning
    mommyrunning Posts: 495 Member
    Agree you should talk to your doctor but I will give you some tips from my experience. I have 3 kids. With the first two I started at a healthy weight but then pretty much ate whatever I felt like. That combined with an aversion to meat and vegetables while pregnant left me eating lots of things like bread and cheese constantly so I gained about 40-45 lbs. With baby 3 I was about 10 lbs overweight and gained around 25 lbs. The big difference I had with baby 3 was I tried to be more active. I also logged my food to help ensure I wasn't going too crazy. I didn't have a regular work out time but I would get up from my desk several times a day and walk for about 10 minutes. I allowed myself some stuff like a little candy or sweets but tried to not go crazy. Some things to remember: during pregnancy you may retain water more so sudden increases can be due to water retention and most of the weight you gain will be baby, blood, & fluid. Cut your self some slack. If you gain an extra 5 lbs it isn't too big of a deal but talk to your doctor to ensure someone else isn't going on and they aren't concerned about it.

    During the 2nd & 3rd trimester 1-2 lbs a week is common

    Pregnancy Weight Gain: Average Distribution

    7 1/2 pounds is about how much the baby will weigh by the end of pregnancy.
    1 1/2 pounds is how much the placenta weighs.
    4 pounds is attributed to increased fluid volume.
    2 pounds is the weight of the uterus.
    2 pounds is the weight of breast tissue.
    4 pounds is because of increased blood volume.
    7 pounds is attributed to maternal stores of fat, protein and other nutrients.
    2 pounds for the amniotic fluid.
    Total: 30 pounds
  • SLLRunner
    SLLRunner Posts: 12,942 Member
    queenliz99 wrote: »
    Sarah4fitness wrote: »
    Given your pregnancy and your hormonal issues, I'd advise you to stay off the forums and talk directly with your doctor for advice.

    +1000

    Plus 5000. OP, talk to your doctor. You are supposed to gain weight while pregnant.
  • FGTisme
    FGTisme Posts: 87 Member
    Like everyone else said, talk with your doctor. Did he/she give you a suggested healthy baby diet to follow? I know mine did, but that was 15 years ago. From what I remember, the cravings ease a good bit in the last trimester. Stop torturing yourself with worry over gaining weight. Just accept it as part of the wonderful deal.

    From what you listed that you eat, I'd add a good bit more protein. I will help with the hunger, and you and your baby need it.
  • Kimegatron
    Kimegatron Posts: 772 Member
    That sounds actually quite normal. I would be concerned if you weren't gaining a good amount. When I was pregnant, despite me eating everything I wanted and even drinking protein shakes with lotsssssss of peanut butter and nom-nom food, I only gained 16lbs. I tried so hard to gain for my baby, and ended up her being small by nature. I had to be emergency induced 2 days before my due date because of her concern. I would have gained another 20 if my body had let me. I gain super easy usually, but not while preggo
  • SLLRunner
    SLLRunner Posts: 12,942 Member
    Kimegatron wrote: »
    That sounds actually quite normal. I would be concerned if you weren't gaining a good amount. When I was pregnant, despite me eating everything I wanted and even drinking protein shakes with lotsssssss of peanut butter and nom-nom food, I only gained 16lbs. I tried so hard to gain for my baby, and ended up her being small by nature. I had to be emergency induced 2 days before my due date because of her concern. I would have gained another 20 if my body had let me. I gain super easy usually, but not while preggo

    I have a friend who said she lost weight while pregnant, even though she was not trying to. Her doctors had her on close watch, but she and baby turned out fine.
  • soapsandropes
    soapsandropes Posts: 269 Member
    Talk to your doctor, bring a food log with you.

    If you weren't pregnant I would recommend maybe cutting back on some of the fruit and looking at more protein and fats to keep your blood sugar from bouncing around so much.
  • kamakazeekim
    kamakazeekim Posts: 1,183 Member
    My doctor has told me she wants me to gain a pound a week even if it means eating more high calorie/junk food but I'm having a really hard time finding the right balance of calories for me...most sources say to add 200 to 300 calories per day during the 2nd trimester but that's for normal women...I'm far from normal...my calorie needs are medically recognized to be much less than "normal" people. I'm also having a high risk pregnancy so my activity level has been drastically reduced and it's expected I will be on full bed rest starting sometime between week 25 and week 30.
  • SLLRunner
    SLLRunner Posts: 12,942 Member
    soapsandropes wrote: »
    Talk to your doctor, bring a food log with you.

    If you weren't pregnant I would recommend maybe cutting back on some of the fruit and looking at more protein and fats to keep your blood sugar from bouncing around so much.

    You don't know if her blood sugar is bouncing around. Cravings happen for other reasons.
  • kamakazeekim
    kamakazeekim Posts: 1,183 Member
    My fasting blood sugar was 59 at my last appointment.
  • Ninkyou
    Ninkyou Posts: 6,666 Member
    kamakazeekim wrote: »
    My doctor has told me she wants me to gain a pound a week even if it means eating more high calorie/junk food but I'm having a really hard time finding the right balance of calories for me...most sources say to add 200 to 300 calories per day during the 2nd trimester but that's for normal women...I'm far from normal...my calorie needs are medically recognized to be much less than "normal" people. I'm also having a high risk pregnancy so my activity level has been drastically reduced and it's expected I will be on full bed rest starting sometime between week 25 and week 30.

    Then listen to your doctor. If she wants you to eat more, then eat more. You have a high risk pregnancy (I've had 2 myself), ignoring your doctor's orders is not something to consider. Stop freaking out about the weight gain. It's going to happen, whether you will it or not. You can always lose the weight after you deliver.
  • kshama2001
    kshama2001 Posts: 28,052 Member
    soapsandropes wrote: »
    Talk to your doctor, bring a food log with you.

    If you weren't pregnant I would recommend maybe cutting back on some of the fruit and looking at more protein and fats to keep your blood sugar from bouncing around so much.

    Yup, I'm not comfortable giving advice to a pregnant woman either, but if you weren't, I'd also suggest more protein and fat.

    Do start logging again so you can show your doctor. Your carbs sound super high and protein very low.

  • SLLRunner
    SLLRunner Posts: 12,942 Member
    kamakazeekim wrote: »
    my calorie needs are medically recognized to be much less than "normal" people

    Do you mean you have a medical issue such as thyroid or inulin resistence? If so, this is all more the reason to consult your MD.

  • kamakazeekim
    kamakazeekim Posts: 1,183 Member
    edited October 2015
    PCOS and insulin resistant...all blood work shows no concerns for diabetes but my blood sugar has been dropping too low so I often feel dizzy which is why I'm supposed to drink a pop or sugary juice when I feel faint or dizzy. I'm also to drink a caffinated drink combined with Tylenol for my migraines I've been getting.
  • kshama2001
    kshama2001 Posts: 28,052 Member
    kamakazeekim wrote: »
    My doctor has told me she wants me to gain a pound a week even if it means eating more high calorie/junk food but I'm having a really hard time finding the right balance of calories for me...most sources say to add 200 to 300 calories per day during the 2nd trimester but that's for normal women...I'm far from normal...my calorie needs are medically recognized to be much less than "normal" people. I'm also having a high risk pregnancy so my activity level has been drastically reduced and it's expected I will be on full bed rest starting sometime between week 25 and week 30.

    Look, you can't both say you have a very complicated medical condition and ask an internet forum for advice. Either this is a question for your doctor or it isn't.

    So your doctor told you it was ok to get the extra calories from Little Debbies and Oreos and sodas...and now you have what you describe as insatiable hunger. Peanut butter has 100 calories per tablespoon, and doesn't trigger cravings for me, but due to your hormone disorder you should consult with your doctor.
  • SLLRunner
    SLLRunner Posts: 12,942 Member
    edited October 2015
    kamakazeekim wrote: »
    PCOS and insulin resistant...all blood work shows no concerns for diabetes but my blood sugar has been dropping too low so I often feel dizzy which is why I'm supposed to drink a pop or sugary juice when I feel faint or dizzy. I'm also to drink a caffinated drink combined with Tylenol for my migraines I've been getting.

    Gotcha.

    By the way, I forgot to cogratulate you on the upcoming bundle.

    Yep, talking your doctor is your best bet. :)
  • kamakazeekim
    kamakazeekim Posts: 1,183 Member
    Most doctors don't know about the specifics of PCOS and I live in a remote rural area so I can't just find a new doctor. Most women with PCOS will tell you...they have to educate their doctor about the disorder. Even my perinatologist (high risk pregnancy doctor) told me that after losing 140 pounds my PCOS "went away" which my endocrinologist made very clear is not the case.
  • angelexperiment
    angelexperiment Posts: 1,917 Member
    I gained 15 lbs superfast in beginning then nothing. I ate when I was hungry. If your baby is hungry you will be hungry. You are supposed to eat 800 more cals for baby. Eat more protein and fat bc that is what baby needs especially asbrain ddevelopment and other vital organs form and lots of calcium for bones and cartilage. It will be fine and will come off especially if you breastfeed. I think I gained 30 but lost it after all the fluid went away. But then I gained bc I got depressed and ate alit of pb like jars and jars! Oh well it will come off however it works.
  • kshama2001
    kshama2001 Posts: 28,052 Member
    Alrighty then. I seem to recall from our many PCOS threads that reducing carbs helps. http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/search?adv=1&search=&title=PCOS&author=&cat=9&tags=&discussion_d=1&comment_c=1&group_group=1&within=1+day&date=
  • mommyrunning
    mommyrunning Posts: 495 Member
    edited October 2015
    You should speak openly to your doctor about your concerns.

    Here's something to consider. I am going to be a little blunt but I in no way intend to be mean. I just think your fear of gaining weight is clouding your judgment. If your doctor is wrong you gain some extra weight and have to work harder to lose it. If you are wrong it could potentially harm your baby. So err on the side of caution and listen to your doctor. If possible see another doctor and/or do some research but in general I would say trust your doctor.
  • Yi5hedr3
    Yi5hedr3 Posts: 2,696 Member
    You gotta cut the refined sugars/carbs and increase healthy fats and protein. Make it so!
  • jemhh
    jemhh Posts: 14,261 Member
    I remember you from over the summer.

    Why are you eating so little meat? How much protein/fat are you getting in general? Protein and fat will help you feel more full. Your diet sounds like it is mostly carbs, which may, considering your PCOS, not be the best plan.
  • kamakazeekim
    kamakazeekim Posts: 1,183 Member
    I throw up every time I eat meat...just the smell of it cooking sets off the gagging.
  • 7elizamae
    7elizamae Posts: 758 Member
    Sarah4fitness wrote: »
    Given your pregnancy and your hormonal issues, I'd advise you to stay off the forums and talk directly with your doctor for advice.
    Yes, yes to this! Your doctor will be able to give you the best advice for your nutrition while you're pregnant.


  • PrizePopple
    PrizePopple Posts: 3,133 Member
    kamakazeekim wrote: »
    I throw up every time I eat meat...just the smell of it cooking sets off the gagging.

    I couldn't handle fish while pregnant with my oldest. Just make sure you're eating plenty of protein and iron rich foods, and without fail run every last bit of it by your doctor to make sure you stay as healthy as possible. 15 pounds gained in 20 weeks seems totally normal and unless your doctor indicates concern then don't worry about it. You can lose it after the baby is born.
  • 7elizamae
    7elizamae Posts: 758 Member
    I think it's very hard to know how a pregnancy will progress. I gained about that much by 22 weeks and then not a whole lot more.

    I remember the doctoring scolding me a little bit and telling me to cut back on orange juice (which I'd been craving like crazy). It was so hard to be pregnant, have cravings, feel big and uncomfortable AND worry about my weight all at once. And that was with a typical pregnancy! You have even more to think about with your riskier pregnancy.

    I hope you have a good friend or family member you can talk to when you're feeling overwhelmed by all of this. I'm guessing this is your first baby? My prescription is 1) advice from your doctor and 2)lots of TLC from a trusted friend or family member.

    All the worry and struggle will be worth it when you meet your little one! There's nothing like it. :) xoxo
  • LKArgh
    LKArgh Posts: 5,178 Member
    kamakazeekim wrote: »
    PCOS and insulin resistant...all blood work shows no concerns for diabetes but my blood sugar has been dropping too low so I often feel dizzy which is why I'm supposed to drink a pop or sugary juice when I feel faint or dizzy. I'm also to drink a caffinated drink combined with Tylenol for my migraines I've been getting.

    You are pregnant, PCOS does not come into it right now. Talk to your dr, ask a reference to an endocrinologist and/or a dietitian. If you have not already been tested for gestational diabetes, do. Insulin resistance plus your eating habits plus your weight gain, they put you at risk. You need more protein, less sugar, less calories. But, talk to a specialist, having a plan or at least guidelines will make things easier.

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