New moms watch your weight

While weight and obesity have long concerned women in relation to body image and lifestyle issues, few are aware of the possible risks that fluctuating weight could have on their unborn child, according to a study.

The key message, say the authors, is that women of normal weight should avoid gaining weight between pregnancies, while overweight and obese women are likely to benefit from weight loss before becoming pregnant. Most women want to achieve the best start in life for their babies, they add. This could be a powerful motivational factor in helping them change the way they eat.