EFFECTS OF DIETING AND PHYSICAL-ACTIVITY ON PREGNANCY AND LACTATION

Concerns regarding weight control and fitness during the reproductive years have prompted questions about dieting and physical activity amon g pregnant and lactating women. Dieting to lose weight is never recomm ended during pregnancy, even among obese women. Once lactation is esta blished, moderate energy restriction to achieve a weight loss of less than or equal to 2 kg/mo is probably safe for women who are overweight initially. There are several potential risks and benefits of exercise during pregnancy and lactation. The data available indicate that mode rate aerobic exercise is safe and beneficial for most women, if approp riate guidelines are followed.