A recent study says that the number of babies born to obese mothers who die in infancy has gone up seventeen percent. Women who are obese could have many complications when they are pregnant. Other studies have found that there is an association with birth defects and being obese. Some of these birth defects include heart problems and limb problems.

Another health problem from being obese that could affect the mother is gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is developed during pregnancy. Just like Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, the glucose, which is what happens to your food when it is broken down, will stay in your blood stream and not go to your cells to be converted into energy. However, with most women, once you have the baby you are no longer diabetic. But you are at a higher risk of getting it if you become pregnant again in the future.

It is not safe for a woman to lose weight when she is pregnant. So the best time to get to a healthier weight is before you become pregnant. There are many things you can do to help yourself become healthier.

Start with a daily exercise routine. Find a plan that includes weight training to build lean muscle and cardio exercises to help burn fat. Lean muscle is created when you lift a lower amount of weight for more repetitions. Exercise has more benefits than just helping you to lose weight. Exercise helps to improve your mood. When you exercise, your brain releases certain chemicals that can leave you happier. Exercise can also help you to have more energy and sleep better. When looking for an exercise program, make sure it is one that you can continue, if your doctor says it is okay, when you are pregnant. Exercising while pregnant can ease back pain, lower blood pressure, reduce swelling, and improve post-partum moods.

The saying, "You are what you eat" is very important when you are trying to lose weight. For many years we have been told that to lose weight we must cut out all fat. But new studies are finding that we need fats in our body for it to function properly and not all fats are bad. Omega-3 fatty acid is considered one of the good fats. They have been found to reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and joint pain.

Omega-3s also deliver more oxygen to your blood stream. It is not naturally produced in the body, but you can find Omega-3s in fish and other organ meats. It is recommended that we eat one to two servings of fish a week to get appropriate levels of Omega-3. The problem is that most Americans are not eating enough fish in their diet. The solution is to take a supplement with fish oil in it. The good news is that many prenatal vitamins are starting to include fish oil in their vitamins.

Another weight loss tip is to drink plenty of water. Water is the most important liquid you can put into your body. When people are looking to lose weight they should drink about a gallon of water a day. Water will help you to flush the burned fat cells from your body. Make sure you are drinking water and not diet sodas, fruit juice, and sports drinks.

It is important to get in the best shape you can be in before you become pregnant. The health of the mother really affects the health of the baby.