Anyone else struggling w/their weight and TTC?

[HoosierDiaperinMama]

After I had Ross I lost about 30 lbs. With bf'ing it just fell right off, but of course I've gained that all back and then some. I don't consider myself obese by any means and I really don't even look like the size clothing that I wear (18/20) but I've been struggling w/the decision to lose weight b/c I know I need to (losing 50 lbs. would be ideal for me). But, like I said I'm really hesitant to b/c of TTC.

I'm so afraid that I'll get on a diet and be successful w/it and then get pg. Believe me, I'd rather be pg than diet any day but I'm very reluctant to start anything b/c I just know that once I do that I'll be pg and I'll have to stop the diet.

So, what do I do? Has anyone else dieted while TTC??

[SweetTeach]

Hmmm, I don't have an answer for you, but I am exactly where you are! I don't feel physically healthy at this weight but I don't think it makes sense to be pg and be trying to lose weight. That being said, I am cleaning up my diet and starting to work out much more regularly. I won't starve myself but I will watch what I eat. I'm kind of in limbo land as far as ttc, but I figure even 10 or 20 lbs less will be healthier for me and bebe- once I conceive.
Truly a non-answer, right?

[Joi]

I have altered my lifestyle in order to lose weight. My Dr. told me it might help me to start ovulating again. So far I have lost about 13 lbs and have a lot left to go. I do worry about gaining too much if I ever get pregnant but hey............ there is always that breastfeeding weight loss, right?

[gristastic]

I have had trouble with my weight for about the last 8-10 years. I was really successful with a low-carb diet (Yes, I still ate vegetables) but once we conceived, I couldn't really do low-carb anymore.

It's said to be more difficult to become pregnant when you're carrying too much weight, anyway. If you're overweight, losing a few lbs may actually help.

I've gained a good amt of weight with this pregnancy already, and it bothers me sometimes, but I just try to remember who it's all for, and it helps me hold my head high.

[Shorin_Mama]

I have some weight to lose to be in my "ideal range." I decided that I would not restrict my foods but eat a good, balanced diet. I exercise quite a bit (how bad off can you be if you pass a 4-hour black belt test?) so I'm not too worried about that. As much as I would like to be thinner my intuition tells me my body is becoming more "womanly" in preparation for carrying a baby. I would LOVE to lose 30 lbs but I know it's not going to happen before I have a child. I'm going to nurse so I'm less concerned about losing weight after the pregnancy.

I try not to think too much about pregnancy gains, remembering that my body will gain what it needs to grow my baby and nothing more -- as long as I maintain a good diet and exercise consistently.

Jess

[babycarrier]

yes. i've lost about 15 lbs in the last 2 months and I feel better. Dropped a clothing size and all. But, realistically I've got about 40 more to go to get where I was before I was pregnant with my ds about 2 years ago.
So, the dilemma. Sometimes I can't wait to be pregnant again. Sometimes I feel like I MUST NOT GET PREGNANT until this extra weight comes off.
I'll take pregnant any day Depends on the day and how I feel but it is a constant source of stress or emotion, even when it's not on the front burner. It is interesting for me to hear other's feelings about this subject.

[Shorin_Mama]

I want to add that the Plus Size Pregnancy Website is a GREAT resource for those of us starting out as zaftig ladies. After spending some time there I felt so wonderful and HAPPY with my body.

Jess

[mom2threenurslings]

I'm about to start the weight-loss process (one last week of eating all the bad stuff!) and am waiting to ttc until December. I'm giving myself 6 months to lose weight and get in shape (I'm a 22/24 right now).

I've been overweight most of my life and when I wasn't overweight I was anorexic/bulemic, so losing weight in a HEALTHY way is a big challenge for me. I think for me getting exercise is a big factor, so I'm going to try incorporating some sort of exercise into my day. The problem is, it's difficult to do with three kids to take care of all day!

My dh loves me no matter what weight I am (I wore a size 8/10 when we met!) and has told me that he hopes I don't get "skinny".

The funny thing is, my main reason for wanting to lose weight before getting pregnant, a little more even than being healthy, is so that I can fit into all the cute maternity clothes this time around! :LOL I can't afford to buy new ones, and the cute clothes I usually come across at thrift stores (or that I could borrow from my friends!) are all smaller sizes!

[HoosierDiaperinMama]

Originally Posted by farmlife3

So, the dilemma. Sometimes I can't wait to be pregnant again. Sometimes I feel like I MUST NOT GET PREGNANT until this extra weight comes off. I'll take pregnant any day Depends on the day and how I feel but it is a constant source of stress or emotion, even when it's not on the front burner. It is interesting for me to hear other's feelings about this subject.

Yes, this is exactly how I feel!!! You hit it right on the nose!

I originally told myself before we even started TTC that I would lose 50 lbs. before we had another baby. At this point I think losing 50 lbs. pales in comparison to having another baby.

I have also read that losing a few lbs. and/or changing your eating habits can be beneficial when TTC. Maybe that's my problem...I'm making too many wrong choices when it comes to food. Who knows!?!?

I'm so glad that others can relate!!!

[babycarrier]

it helps me too, to hear that other people grapple with this issue!
just wanted to add, cutting products with corn syrup out has really made a difference. My diet is pretty good - lots of whole foods and organic when I can make the choice. I know I am an emotional eater at times. I also didn't realize how many places corn syrup lurked - like in most commercially prepared breads. I keep my shopping to the outside of the store and now that the garden is almost ready - fresh veggies always on hand!
The other thing that has helped me is starting with a half serving and waiting. Often I don't go back for the other half. If anyone else has little tips or tricks please pass them on.
I do love my body for everything it has done - it grew my little boy! It nourished and fed him all through pregnancy and the 1st half of his life so far. For me, breastfeeding was not a weight losing prospect. I've learned it is not guaranteed weight loss for everyone.
And my dh loves me for me and I really believe he likes the curves .
But I know I will be happier with a few less! I'm really trying to concentrate on just eating less food, always choosing the best quality food and playing. Running and swimming and dancing with my son. We love to listen to cd's and dance and I recently found out he enjoys ska! So jump jump jump we do and what a workout! Being the healthiest mom I can be for him is my main motivator. Also, in raising a little boy (or girl if he was one!), I don't want to stigmatize weight. This is a definite but very private part of my life.

[sinsaratea]

Shorin... thanks for that web link for plus size pregnancy! it was awesome!!!!
sinsaratea

[Stone Fence]

Great website

Thanks Jess!

So much to read, so little time.

[Shorin_Mama]

I'm glad you guys are liking the website. I found it so reassuring and supportive.

Jess