Eating for Two: Myth or Fact

Most women have insecurities about their weight – the evidence of this is in the multi-billion dollar industry that surrounds the idea of “just follow our diet and loose those stubborn kilos.” Countless books are written and we lap them up in the desperate hope that “this time will be different.” Honestly, sometimes I think we’re in a slightly deranged, abusive relationship with the idea behind weight loss. Then, we get pregnant and along with the excitement about the growing bundle of joy comes the knowledge that getting back into shape after baby’s arrival is not going to be as easy as these Victoria Secrets’ Angels would like us to believe.

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Truthfully, I would weigh myself daily during the 40 weeks it takes to grow a human and berate myself every time the scale would tell me what I already knew – that I was unnecessarily eating for two. In fact, I think the eating was often more emotionally based than based on what I actually nutritionally needed. But, I managed to figure out that I was doing myself an injustice by gaining more than healthy just in time and fortunately managed to continue exercising in a healthy “preggy-friendly” way.

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Now, to understand what the weight gain is during pregnancy – this (taken from ) will give you a good idea:

  • At birth, the average baby weighs anywhere between 2.8 and 3.3kg.
  • During pregnancy, the muscle layer of your womb (uterus) grows dramatically and weighs an extra 0.9kg.
  • The placenta, which nourishes your baby, weighs just over 0.5kg.
  • Your breasts weigh an extra 0.4kg.
  • Your blood volume increases and weighs an extra 1.2kg.
  • You have extra fluid in your body, and amniotic fluid around the baby, weighing around 2.6kg.
  • You will also lay down some fat during your pregnancy to provide you with extra energy for breastfeeding. This comes to about 2.5kg.
  • Thus, TECHNICALLY, you should only gain 10.5-11 kg during your pregnancy – though you should also take your BMI (Body Mass Index) into account.

To calculate your BMI:

  • Multiply your height in meters by your height in meters. For example 1.6 by 1.6 meters gives you 2.56.
  • Then divide your weight in kg by this figure. So, if you weigh 60 kg, your BMI will be 60 divided by 2.56 = 23.44.

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BMI less than 18.5 – underweight
BMI 18.5 to 22.9 – ideal
BMI equal to or more than 23 – overweight
BMI equal to or more than 25 – obese

Experts now recommend that women should aim for a weight gain related to their pre-pregnancy BMI:

  • If your BMI was less than 19.8, you should aim for a weight gain of between 12.5 and 18kg.
  • If your BMI was between 19.8 and 26, you should aim for a weight gain of 11.5 to 16kg.
  • If your BMI was above 26, you should aim for a weight gain of 7 to 11.5kg.

The extra kilojoules that one needs to grow a baby are nowhere near to “eating for two” and there are many suitable eating plans/guides (note – I’m not using the term “diet”) to ensure that you gain healthy weight. I gained 15kg during my pregnancy and am giving myself fair time to get back to where I was. But, you cannot blame pregnancy 18 months after having had a baby. Try to get back to your healthy size before getting pregnant again as I’ve heard it becomes harder the following times to loose the “baby weight.”

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Another very importnat aspect to having a healthy pregnancy is exercise. After checking with your doctor that you’re one of the majority of women who are able to maintain their exercise routines (with some adaptations) during pregnancy, continue going to gym or going for long walks, etc. My personal favourite that helped me throughout my pregnancy was Pilates. My trainer, William Hall () – helped me to train in a healthy way that also worked on my strength for after the baby arrived. Trust me – you’ll want to be strong when healing after the birth process and carrying around your baby. The pictures show me at 36 weeks or 8.5 months (a month before giving birth) and then again at 3 months after having my baby. Another sure way to benefit you and baby is by breastfeeding – it has honestly been the most effective and mutually beneficial “diet” for my son and I 😉 I’ve lost weight and he’s gained weight very healthily. I would recommend that you do your best to try and breastfeed exclusively for the first few months and get as much help as you need to ensure that. Lactation consultants and maternity nurses at the hospital are invaluable and will do their best to give you and your baby the best chance.

Be kind to yourself and realistic about your body – after all, you are growing a little human which is the most amazing miracle.


Share your motherhood, preggy weight stories or comments below and stand a chance to win a gorgeous designer perfume! This week, we’ll be giving away “Angel” by Thierry Mugler.

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Congrats to Donna Liedemann, our first giveaway winner.

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92 Comments

  1. Janine
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    My lil angel was born on 30thMarch 2014 and weighed 3,5kg before my pregnancy i weighed 85kg and jst before i gave birth i was 111kg i was shocked bt i enjoyed it cos my baby was healthy and so was i now im gettin back in shape cos i need 2 be there for my son.oh he was named Alaric Mason Siebrits

  2. Robyn Zondagh
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I am going in to have my second bundle today and what you have said is so relatable and so true. One does need to be kinder to ones body and the new body that we get. Even working out it seems it’s not that 20 something bounce back we all like to think we have. Your body changes whether you like it or not. I know this time will be easier on me as I know what to expect but the first time was difficult bouncing back and I think that is what most moms battle with how they saw themselves and now see theme selves when intact they should see the miracle that they are themselves! Be kind to yourself and embrace your new body.

  3. Megan Arendse
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I am just about to reach the 7 month mark and for some reason the thought of losing the weight after having this baby has been haunting me for the past few days. Before finding out I was pregnant, I started walking (as I was very unfit and just slightly overweight according to my BMI). Unfortunately, due to first trimester complications I did not continue walking and then winter came in and I have not exercised once. I beat myself up about that everyday. Even though I have not gained much weight during my pregnancy thus far, I have my mind set on going back down to a healthy weight as soon as possible after having my baby.

  4. kerri
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    i am a preggy mummy to be, Baby girl Marks is due PG September 25th 2014. I have actually not weighed myself much at all, the doc weighs me at my checkups and I am trying not to fixate on what a scale says. As long as my bubs is getting the right nutrients and by all the scans I’m assured her growth is perfectly on track 🙂 nothing better! would adore some pretty fragrance – at the moment I am not spoiling myself at all our money is going to baby 🙂

    • Megan Arendse
      Wed, 25 June 2014
      Reply

      My boy is also due 25 September 🙂 final stretch 😉

      • kerri
        Fri, 27 June 2014
        Reply

        cant believe its the final week of the second trimester! how are you feeling?

  5. Karen van Heerden
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I’m due this Sunday but it looks like I’ll have a Caesar 🙁 I too weighed myself daily and obsessed about every kilo and gram I gained! I tried to eat as healthy as I could but in the last few weeks i’ve just given in and I’ve been carb and sugar overloading! I used to do pilates twice a week as well as zumba and salsa, but I felt too nauseous,dizzy and I was overheating! I’m hoping to go back to that routine after 6 weeks postbaby but that’s wishful thinking at this point! I’m looking forward to welcoming my baby girl in the next few days…my main focus is to be happy and healthy for her 🙂

  6. Cindy
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I wish I knew what I know now while I was pregnant…but alas, I didn’t and ate myself to a whopping 30kgs heavier…eeeekkkk Most of it was very much emotional based eating and then after my little boy was born, I felt terrible about my body and the way I looked.
    Well to cut a long story short, it took me nearly 2 years to loose about 20kgs and get back to my new “normal” size (because our bodies do change and become a little different, which we also have to accept). I then fell pregnant with my little girl and thankfully I was way more informed and realistic about my body, I only picked up 15kgs which was quite ideal. It took me longer than I wanted to shed it, but I kept going and eventually got there. The process was long but I am grateful for everything I went through, life is a long lesson, which we need to learn to enjoy all the way, even if we a little heavier at times 🙂

  7. ziyanda mbusi
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    i am a yummy fit mommy to a daughter that brings laughter in me she is my bundle of joy ,i have learn to save as i am still looking forward to have a boy , i enjoy reading stories to her every morning and bed-night stories i am proud yummy mommy i have decided to #team-fitness at the beginning was scared to but after seeing our modern mommy i am going to follow the same route whoop whoop yummy modern mom thank you for sharing your journey with us.

  8. Sarah
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    My baby is 3years old n im still battling with my weight i have managed to drop most of it and am in much better shape because im forced to keep for and healthy for my boys im loving being a mom to to very busy boys, i am however very sad and sometimes depressed with the scars that was left (never to be seen in a bikini again

  9. Jady Kannemeyer
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    #modernmommy.. you are such an inspiration to me .Thank you so much Jo-Ann . I have 3 kids and seeing you perfect looking good so easily. I’m so inspired. Time has never been on my side but after watching you I invested in a nanny and now I am able to do gym and have more time for myself. Thank you Jo-Ann 🙂

  10. halima
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    3 years ago I was expecting my 1st baby. Before falling pregnant I weighed 42kg. During my pregnancy I gained 23kg. Of which it took me almost 3 years to lose. I lost a lot of weight after giving birth but the tyre around my stomach was the hardest part to lose and go back to normal. Being a working wife, mother and person is not easy. But its worth every kg gained in my life. I believe that mommys take advantage of over eating when pregnant which is very unhealthy for the mum in the long run. Unless u a regular gym mommy like jo anne. And what makes things worst I ate what I wanted, when I wanted and how much I wanted, a mistake I’ll never make again. But I must admit I enjoyed every junk food I ate during my pregnancy. Ps hope I win the angel perfume so I can give it to my mum (her fav perfume)

    • Andy
      Sun, 23 November 2014
      Reply

      Oh my gosh this is so true, I ate a lot stopped training cause it’s first pregnancy and I gained 45kgs which I only lost 15kgs now am pregnant again I’m 14 weeks I eat healthy the baby’s growing and I haven’t gained not even a kg. I suppose baby’s taking from the fat I already have.

  11. Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I am mommy to 2 beautiful girls Amy (10) & Chloe (6). Becoming a mom on the 16th Jan 2004 for the first time, was the best thing that ever happened to me. It taught me so many things in life which I thought I already knew. I learnt how to be more patient and want to a role model for my girls…someone they can look to for advice while growing up and be able to share their secrets and problems with me. My one tip I learnt while being pregnant was: sleeping was a problem for me towards the later part of my pregnancy, but someone introduced me to a body pillow, which really helped me a lot and made sleeping that much more comfortable…I would really recommend it for all new mommies to be.

  12. Cammy Myra Peplouw
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Hi JoAnne, it happens all too often that I hear pregnant women complain about their weight gain. Its good to get a proper perspective on what exactly happens to your body and weight during pregnancy. This will be really helpful to me when I have a baby in the future. Thanks so much for your posts and providing clarity on these important topics.

  13. kay-lee small
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Im not a mom… bt I love following ur inspirational blog posts! Makes me excited for motherhood one day too! Thank u! Please keep it up!

  14. Chantall
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    My twin boys were born on 5 November 2012 weighing 2.9kg and 3.3kg respectively (now they are 19 months old and each weigh nearly 13kgs). Mommy on the other hand weighed 65kg before pregnancy and 100.5kgs before birth, 19 months later and I am now down to 73kgs, trying to lead a healthier lifestyle.
    I should definitely thank my two little monkeys for assisting my initial weight loss, just 2 months after they were born I was back in my pre-preggy jeans 🙂 breastfeeding really does work wonders for both baby and mommy 🙂
    Even though I am not at my goal weight, I feel comfortable in my skin and having hubby tell me daily that I look good makes the effort I am putting in to weight loss seem extra worth while 🙂 Just 11kgs more to go till goal weight!! #youcandothis
    On the fragrance note – it would be a wonderful birthday gift for this mommy who has not had a #spoilyourself moment in 2 years 😉

  15. Gaynor Petersen
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I am a mother who after so many years still feel glamorous and beautiful. MY baby is now awc going on 20 in September and it seems like yesterday that I brought this bundle of joy into this world. I have never had a weight problem and although I’ll be 60 next year I still look like 30 odd. I enjoy life to the fullest and is not really into excercing but go for brisk walks now and then. This fragrance will be a bonus for me as I love the finer things in life and by the way your website is WOW!!!!

  16. R. Davids
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Love this post. Sooo true 🙂

  17. odette Malesa
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    During my first pregnancy I gained plus minus 20kgs. I honestly did eat for two and NEVER attempted to exercise at all because to me it was a holiday, a time to leisure, eat what I want and gain huge loads of weight with no shame. I also thought that breastfeeding would take care of the weight for me and I could still eat as much as I wanted postpartum and see the fat just disappear, lol so crazy. Then I gave birth to my big son who weighed 4,6 kgs and I was so excited when I heard that due to him being that big he would need more feeds than the average baby, that to me was heaven because I would have to produce a lot of milk which I thought as a result I would lose all that weight and even more. All I lost was 5kgs and because I didn’t eat healthy and exercised as well, I later gained it all back. Now I’m expecting my second baby and I will be adding on some more weight on top of that. I do exercise now and I try to watch what I eat. I’m not sure if it will help at all as u say its harder to lose weight the second time round if I didn’t lose the first time. I will be praying, exercising nd stuffing myself with lots of greens, well hopefully. *crossing fingers*

  18. Boipelo
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I’V got great genes I ddnt have to work match! Aftr givin birtH the nurses asked me if I realy ws pregnant! To those Mommies who are gettin bck on shape don’t be to hard on ur self u will get there…It take atleast a year for your Body to adjust to the trauma of carryin tht Bundle!!! Huggz+Kisses

  19. Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I picked up 50 kgs between my two pregnancies 24 kgs & 26 kgs LOL I really just took the ‘eating for two’ thing quite literally. But I loved it as I have always been rather skinny, never weighed over 50kgs prior to being pregnant. Still haven’t lost all the weight but I love my mommy body…just need to tone a bit! 🙂

  20. Wendy ngxumza
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    im 23 and pregnant with my 1st baby, its the most amazing thing ever :D…and im so guilty of ‘eating for two’..i know now that iv just been using my baby as an excuse to eat more…iv heard about pilates being the best for pregnancy..but how do i knw how much of them to perform?

  21. Lisa Harrison
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I love reading the posts on your website. It really encourages and motivates me as a young mom to be. My baby boy is due on the 24th August and this past month has been quite a challenge for me as baba puts on weight weekly and I feel yuck and huge. But reading this really keeps me positive and excited. So thank you x

  22. Marlie
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I am pregnant with a girl! Got two boys..10&6 years old..I am so into fruits now..having fruitsalad everyday- sometimes for supper as well. I would love to get the Angel perfume..);

  23. Jamie-Lee
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I am a mother of a 4 years and 10 month old son..I was a active hockey player and weighed 58 during pregnancy! I gained so much weight in the past few years that it is eating me! I weighed 100.13 just before going for an emergency operation! I know it’s 4 years later but it’s been eating on me since I reached 60 kg! Due to not having the opportunities to gym as I’m working 8-5 at Media24 .. Married for 3 months & I know now is the time to get serious and reach out for help! Just like you Jo-Ann I’m an emotional eater! I am now using Alien of Thierry Mugler! Hope I’m lucky enough to win Angel as well! Wish me luck with my recovery! Thank you for this platform Jo-Ann!! 🙂

  24. Lizann Chiccaro
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I am 32 and have three beautiful kiddos. I had my first son at 22 ( very young, but so worth it) and I put on 12kg. I lost all the weight within the first month. I ate healthily and took all the omegas, folic acid etc. I really do believe that this helped me with a natural delivery. I was fit and strong, and bounced back immediately… i went back to gym two weeks after his birth. With my second boy, i put on a whopping 20kg!! He was delivered via Caesarean and although the recovery was not too bad, i struggled to loose the last 6kg, even with exercise after six weeks and healthy eating. It really goes to show that how you look after your body during pregnancy, will determine how you will recover and loose the extra weight after delivery. 🙂

  25. Carla Kote
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    When I found out i was pregnant i was a tall stick insect of just 48kg and the 1st thing my OB said was that I was to be kinder to myself and eat a burger once in a while if i was to grow a healthy baby …. And years of bad habits and obsessive denial of food was stopped in its tracks, I found myself joyfully stuffing food in my mouth to aid in growing my tiny bundle, i was lucky tho as years of healthy food choices kept my new found love of eating to still choose healthy foods all be it larger portions and my body and my baby thank me for it …. I gained 25 kg and ended my 4th term at a whopping 72 kg and for someone who has a congenital heart condition found myself in my healthiest time of my life ever dispite all the scary stories about my condition and pregnancy …. I do feel having a baby gave me pause and woke me up to not only eating healthy but in eating enough not just for two but for myself as well and now i maintain a much healthier 55kg constant with my nunu and my bodyc much happier for it …. #savedbymybaby …. Side bar … I dont tho miss my bazaar love of seafood pizza topped with banana slit the craving usually hit late at night and poor dad was tasked to find it lol

  26. Jamie-Lee
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I forgot to mention my operation was on Thursday! @ Louis Leipodlt Hospital, Bellville! Still at home recovering and trying to remain positive and shake off this unwanted killos 🙂 #feeling determined!

  27. Kim Meiring
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Love your articles on Modern Mommy! So relatable! I gained 12kgs with my first pregnancy, lost quite a bit of weight post birth and then picked it up again and more:(, so difficult to juggle a career, motherhood and not forgetting hubby as well. I have started on the weightloss journey again and have recruited a running buddy in preparation to equip my body before falling Preggies with baby no.2. The older generation moms think I’m crazy to lose the weight, only having to pick it up all again with pregnancy 2, but I disagree. I would rather prep my body and exercise throughout pregnancy no.2. I didn’t do this in pregnancy no.1 and feel that had I been fitter I would have had a better post birth experience and would have healed quicker and would have eased the postnatal blues about my body 🙂

  28. Megs Hartwig
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Motherhood is a funny thing. It brings joy, sadness, laughter and frustrations. Motherhood can be the most rewarding job on the planet most days, but it can also be the hardest. Day in and day out we are on the battlefield, wiping noses and cultivating future stars. Sometimes I think the beauty of motherhood can get lost in all of it. Lost in the snot, lost in the tears, lost in the yelling.

    Sometimes, we just need to take a step back and remember. Remember how it started. Picture the moments that make us smile. The moments that make it all worth while!What better way to celebrate motherhood, than to remember the day it all began. The day I became a mother to my beautiful daughter Zoe, who is now 10 years old. I am choosing to remember the beginning, the change she brought and the new experiences they presented to me. Each so different and so unique. Each one forever changing my life. Each one opening new doors and teaching me new life lessons around every turn. Today, I celebrate how she has made me more accepting of things I don’t understand, how she has changed the way I approach problems in my life and most of all, how she has taught me to love unconditionally.

    • Shafiqua Du Sart
      Thu, 26 June 2014
      Reply

      That’s beautiful Megs 🙂

      • Megs Hartwig
        Fri, 27 June 2014
        Reply

        Thank you so much Shafiqua 🙂 xx

  29. Kay-Lynn Lavelot
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    My gorgeous son whom was born on the 8th of February 2014 weighed 3.030kg’s.

    I never believed in eating for 2, it’s a huge MYTH… I never ate for 2 and my baby still come out as healthy as he could be.

    Now my main problem is struggling to get myself to shake off weight. Although I am happy and due to me being happy, i have a happy baby boy whom wake up in the morning laughing and having conversations. Boi is he my JOY!
    (People need to realise that babies feed off there parents energy.)

    So be happy and live a positive life and your baby will definitely take after you. 🙂

    Live life!

    Mwah.
    P.s: Jo-Ann you looking gorgeous after your bundle of joy!

  30. Viloshnie Naidoo
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Thank you for this information and I will definately be using this when I fall pregnant.I always had such a different view about exercising while pregnant

  31. Kedibone Mimi Sechuane
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I had a child when I was 19 years old doing matric, after giving birth older people encouraged me to eat so that I can be able to breastfeed my child, I was having a bowl of soft porridge throughout the day with another bowl of coffee / tea, I also ate fruits & vegetables sometimes. Another advice I got is that I have to eat while lying with my stomach to avoid having a big tummy. I did all that but now I have this tummy that I do not like. My advice to all the new moms & mom-to-be is to exercise before & after pregnancy and eat accordingly. I will follow my advice if God can bless me again.

    • Wed, 02 July 2014
      Reply

      Thanks Kedibone 🙂 Amazing how much wrong advise people try to give pregnant moms. I’ll pray that you’re blessed with another one in the future too 🙂

  32. Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    When I first found out I was pregnant my first thought was I am going to gain so much weight. From about 13 weeks I had such bad morning sickness together with very low blood pressure. At 26 weeks I went into labour and was hospitalised for 2 days – the doctors managed to stop my son from coming. With all these complications the weight gain etc all went out the window my main concern now was to keep my son healthy and in my tummy for as long as possible.

    At 36 weeks he decided that it was time to make his entrance. I had put on about 20 kilos and was not feeling good about myself. It took me about 8 months to get back into shape and have since maintained my weight. I think had I breastfed ( my son would not latch at all) it would not have taken so long.

  33. Lee Pietersen
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I had my 3rd baby about 3months ago and its true that all pregnancies are different… i was sick most of the time unlike the previous 2 and half of the time i could not eat anything but by the 8th month i had gained so much i could not believe it… but i have decided what is best for me and my family is to follow a healthy eating regime and get some exercise in. and i have all girls so i would love them to know and have healthy habits as early as possible .

  34. Thabang
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I’m a new mommy and my pregnancy days were amazing! Before my pregnancy I weighed 55kg and I only gained 9kg’s. At 39 weeks I was 64 kg just before delivery. That amazed me because we ate so much, just before bedtime you would find Munchie and I standing in front of the fridge eating grapes. Those were our favourite! My Angel was born on the 12 February 2014 at 12:50 pm in the afternoon and weighed 3,375 kg. I gave birth to a healthy beautiful baby girl, natural birth with no complications. I will forever be grateful; those were the most precious moments of my life. Her name is Mihlali meaning “Happiness”. At the moment she’s 4 months old and I’ve gone back to my normal weight.

  35. Shenaaz
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Hi Jo-Anne
    You looking absolutely amazing.
    Im due 29 July and have to date picked up 12kgs {yikes} and still have 4 weeks to go before our gorgeous lil miracle arrives.

    Albeit I belong to a gym, they dont offer classes for preggie fairy’s and I am not in a position to appoint a private instructor. Hence I take a 30minute walk everyday to get in some excercise for lil Eli & I.

    I however, look forward to getting back into the gym as soon as I can after his arrival. When do you recommend I start 🙂 4 or 6 weeks after?

  36. Shafiqa Toefy
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Mum of 3 young men now and not so moderm albeit i think im Hipster enough as my kuds would term it i have jumped from diet to herbal teas and now back to basics ie.eating good food and keeping active.I put on No weight from child 1 to 2nd born which was 16months apart but after 3baby which only came 4years after i had put on 20kg. I have yoyo’d since. I since realised its a lifestyle thing and you gotta be selfless. We were raised old school ….waste not want not…so we stuff in everything even if we dint need it. We do it for everone else but not for us. We cook we bake we finish left overs and we attend parties with yummy goodies we can decline to eat but …hell! It looks to good to pass.Now 20 years later our kids are teaching us what we always new, Good food and exercise works again and again and saying No is nota bad thing its just your choice. So im now owning my life and doing what I want to do after 17 yrs1

  37. Mathapelo Ngwenya
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    My first daughter was born on the 15th January 2014 & I actually loss or gain any weight during my pregnancy, I had a small portable tummy. So I guess there was no need for me to hit the gym, but my guess was wrong cause now I need just to boost my energy levels as lm for ever tired cause of the sleepless nights

  38. Taryn Summers
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Your blog today is so very true. I was very active before falling pregnant and tried my best to stay active throughout my pregnancy, I walked everyday up until 5 and a half months pregnant as I started getting lower abdominal pains and my doctor insisted that I stop immediately, this made me a lot more conscious of my diet and also realized that whatever I was putting in my mouth is going straight to my baby, I was conscious of what I would eat however when I got a craving I indulged ☺️I only gained 10kg and lost the weight fairly quickly as breastfeeding helped a tremendous amount and I definitely think it was my healthy eating that helped me get back on track .
    Thank you for your blogs they really do make a mommy feel better to know you are in the same boat as someone else.

  39. Elmien Stoltz
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Jo-Anne is such a huge inspiration! It just shows that you don’t have to “eat for two” while you are pregnant! Healthy eating and staying fit will definately help you to lose the kilo’s gained after your baby is born!

  40. Amber
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I went from 73kg to 98kg during pregnancy, and i had an ” overweight” bmi to start with although most of it is muscle as im built quite boyish! I ate my normal amounts only thing i really wanted more of was water and strawberries! Now that landed me in the water retention club

    • Amber
      Wed, 25 June 2014
      Reply
  41. yolandi lottering
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I am pregnant with my first child.I must admit,I am very scared for what lies ahead,there are so many myths about pregnancy.I am now 3months and two weeks and can notice a change in my weight.I am constantly hungry and takes loo-trips atleast two times an hour.I do not exercise,I don’t know which exercises are safe to do,I am so lost and scared but already loves my baby.Thanks Jo-anne this website helps me alo

  42. SAPNA DASS
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    During my pregnancy I gained 15 kg and yes it was hard to loss it but once you see results it becomes motivation

    How I did it: so I felt prepared and confident to lose the weight after I gave birth to my son . Taking classes at the gym probably had the biggest impact on my slimming down; I try to work out there about three times a week. I love my Turbo Kick class — the music is great, and it’s so much fun — it’s like being out with your friends and not at the gym. I also take a core strengthening class and do cardio on the elliptical once a week.

    My biggest challenge: I was so afraid I wouldn’t have time for the gym, but I found ways to make it work. My girlfriends and I took turns watching each other’s’ babies, and my husband came home from work early twice a week. For me, it wasn’t just about exercise — I wasn’t working and I needed this time to get out of the house and talk to other adults. What kept me motivated are my friends/fellow moms at the gym and most importantly my hubby

    My best advice: You’re in your own little world after baby arrives, and it’s important to try to keep busy and get out there. Go to moms’ groups, take a walk — don’t sit home all day, because that’s when you’ll start snacking and get support from your loved ones also don’t buy snacks for the home as you are the one end up snacking on them

    Remember everyone is different and will gain and loss weight differently and yes I was able to say goodbye to 17kgs of weight

  43. Marcia
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    In my first pregnancy I gained about 12kgs and my daughter was born 8 weeks early weighing 1.7kg. With the second pregnancy I barely gained 4kgs and my son weighed 1.960kg at 35wks. Each pregnancy was different and difficult but both babies are healthy today! Blessed!

  44. Mel
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Great article. Finding this blog very useful as we are planning to have a baby. Just wanted to know what you did to prevent stretch marks – doesn’t look like you have any?

    • Wed, 02 July 2014
      Reply

      I used Bio Oil, but most important is and drinking water 🙂

  45. Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I am only 1,49m and carried a 4.2kg baby full term. I lost most of the weight in the first week but was rushed to hospital a week later and had an abdominal operation. It’s been difficult trying to recover from both but I am finally at a point where I can exercise. It is not always easy finding the time to exercise with your baby but I’m being innovative by playing games with her while doing sit ups, dancing with my 3 year old and running in the garden with them. Ladies stop procrastination and just start doing something no matter how little. By just starting you have accomplished a goal. Good luck. Jo, you are looking beautiful!

  46. Kgomotso
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    When I found out I was pregnant early 2013 I was very concerned about my weight and got very obsessed with exercising during my pregnancy. So I used to do pilates at the gym and take long walks during my 40weeks which actually helped me a lot when I was on labour. Being active during my pregnancy and doing pelvic floor exercises shortened my labour pains to be approximately 1:30min to 2hrs maximum. I remember taking a walk just 6 hours before giving birth with my legs so swollen because I would feel so refreshed after the walk, and I would always tell myself that the exercise is beneficial for my baby and myself. I believe this eating for two is myth because one can control their eating habits while pregnant. What I do know though is that when a pregnant lady says she’s hungry she really needs food now or else we get so grumpy cause our little friend will be complaining in the tummy.

    I had gained 17kg during my pregnancy and lost 10kg 3weeks after giving birth. Although now my weight fluctuates since I gave birth to a healthy beautiful babygirl in October 2013, I am embracing being a new mom and not putting myself under pressure to lose too much all at once. Whilst enjoying the benefits of motherhood I try to squeeze jogging, skipping rope, taebo, zumba and strength training in my daily routine because I do not have much time to go to the gym. I have learned to be realistic about my body so healthy living is a work in progress not something that happens overnight 🙂

  47. Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Groot inspirasie vir ons jonger genirasie wat nog deur dit moet gaan!! Wys ons net as dit wil gedoen word kan dit!!!

  48. Judy Fredericks
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    My lil muchkin is 9 months now, before i was preggies i weight 52kg.. But as the months went by i ended up at 80kg.. Shocking indeed, but totally worth it when i look into those pretty little hazel eyes.. Im still struggeling to loose all the weight around my tummy and tights area.. #VeryHardIndeed..

  49. Megan Richards
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Hello JoAnne and fellow readers

    What an informative article. I always see women after they’ve given birth and often wonder who they loose the weight so fast … Now I know why.

    Thank you for an honest article, I feel that moms needs to be more real and honest so we can know the absolute truth and learn from each other.

    Winning this prize would be great.

  50. nicole
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    You look great Jo:) shoo I lost a lot with my first born his 5 now have my second boy his 1yrs 6 months .. Been picking up a lot after giving birth to him.. I’m about 90kg and struggeling to loose weight it makes me very emotional with draw myself from husband aswel.. Everytime I start a diet I get put of or find myself cheating (eating more than I should) I’m a stay at home mom with no support or anything to exersise on .. Can’t affort a personal trainer.. Hoping to realy get that will power..

  51. Tanusta Jainarain
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Such an informative article,I’m not a mum tho wish for my own bundle of joy someday,iv been strugglin to lose weight for 2yrs evn tho I go to gym and I’m not a big eater(digestive probs) I stil find it hard to lose weight and health issues and 2 recent big ops make it more dificult but when I see hw Jo-ann has maintained herself it inspires me to try harder

  52. farida Mohamed
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    Hi all

    its funny how media has made us terrified of our own bodies,

    when I feel pregnant my partner had lost he’s job and we where going through real financial difficulties. with the stresses of pregnancy the idea of becoming a mum and the pressures of being the sole bread winner my first few months of pregnancy where a complete nightmare I hated my body ,what was growing in me . and hated myself .

    but once I changed my mindset I was a sexy confidant mummy to be, I started going for really long walks with my Partner and when ever the hunger pangs kicked in I would eat healthy snacks which I found where cheaper than icecream lol. I gave natural birth to a 2.8kg baby girl breast feed her for a year, she joined us on our long walks ,did exercises that incorporated baby and never putting any pressure on myself found that I had lost the baby weight within 6 months. but the key is to love your body at all the stages it’s going through.

  53. candice
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    My daughter Tiffany is 6 years already. I went into early labour with her at about 8 months. She was weighing 2,4kg. Today I can only thank God for my precious child that is so sweet and clever. Totally an angel from above… a bit sad to say I’m still struggling to get rid of some fat as hubby and I was pregnant with our 2nd child, a boy this time but lost him when I went into labour 23wks. This all happened 3years ago now but as for a mother or parent…all still a fresh. All I can say what a joy and blessing to have a child in our lives. Good luck to all the parents out there with the teaching and development of their children’s lives. Stay blessed!!!

  54. Ernestine Campher
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I actually lost weight during my pregnancy 12 years ago. She was healthy and weighed about 3.1 kg at birth. I was so happy about the weight loss. I never had any cravings when I was pregnant but for some or other reason, 3 months after giving birth I started craving sweets/sugar and picked up the kilos again.

    I need to get rid of at least 25kg’s. Sad to say that after numerous unsuccessful diets over the past 12 years I am still not at my target weight. I lost 10kg’s 3 months ago due to stress, no diets….managed to keep it off.

    I have to admit I am lazy and don’t exercise…. I loooove cakes and chocolates…… would like to be at my target weight before I turn 40….2yrs to get my act together!!

  55. Chandre Abrahams
    Wed, 25 June 2014
    Reply

    I fully agree that it’s much more difficult to lose the pounds 2nd time around!! I am a mother of 2 boys and with my first born due to breastfeeding I lost more than what I previously weighed 2nd time around I gained 17kg’s and based on the calculation example you did seems like I was a bit overweight. I also breastfed and lost 14 kg’s. I don’t have time to exercise but try to eat healthy but most importantly I try to avoid carbs. Moms it took us 9 months to pick up the weight give yourself time to lose it, Your body produced a human being after all 😉

  56. Ingrid Clark
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    Aaaah, the memories. Tis bliss! And I am sure most mommies will say they would love their little angels to stay babies forever because they grow up so fast. Take as many pics as possible, document their milestones, share your woes and woops, be your babies encyclopedia as well as their mommy. Most importantly enjoy it with your babies. You are the best and only mommy ever, so trust your instincts no matter that you fear being labelled paranoid. You are their first and last in all they need until they acquire independence…..in the blink of an eye.

  57. Lizelle Booysen
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    I was always health conscious and when I fell pregnant I wanted to do it right. I was really sick the first 16 weeks and couldn’t keep much down. I ended up loosing 12kg. As soon as I could eat properly again I made it my goal to gain weight in a healthy way. I ate nutriance dence foods.

    Excersised helped a lot. I fitted into my nr8 skinny jeans a week after giving birth and I have kept the weight off so far. I am back in the gym and I feel great. I have energy to take care of my daughter who will be 4 months old July 18th.

    I celebrate my 30 th July 1 and I can truly say that thanks to a healthy lifestyle I am looking forward to celebrating.

  58. CHERYL WILLIAMS
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    You look amazing, Joanne! And thanks for being such an inspiration. Hubby and I welcomed our little girl into this world on 30 November 2013. I was fortunate enough to have the ‘perfect pregnancy’ as hubby would say. I had no cravings, no morning sickness, no swelling, only picked up 6 kg’s and had a little bit of heart burn towards the end. Now, after almost 7 months, I am down to weighing even less than I did before I fell pregnant. I feel amazing and am very comfortable with my appearance and hubby always compliments me and we just have an amazing bond and relationship in general. We have grown so much as a family since the arrival of Zoey Alexis. We all fall in love with each other over and over, every single day. Its the most amazing feeling and experience, just looking at our little baby and thinking, “She is ours! We made her!”. God has blesse us abundantly. Keep up your inspiring, good work, Joanne!

  59. Lyndall Matroos
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    My husband and I have been married for 3years. We’ve finally decided to extend the family and start planning for our 1st little peanut.

    Since you’ve started the blog, I have been keeping up with all your posts. And I really just want to say THANK YOU. As a 1st time potential mother, you’ve given me answers before I could even ask the question, certain concerns that I had, you’ve made the solution seem so simple. I’m not a mommy yet but your blogs helps me grow in wisdom and understanding to one day be the perfect me for my little me. THANK YOU for sharing a bit of you with me.

    Wishing you and your family continuous blessings 🙂

  60. Joyce
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    I’ve been a Mom but Sadly lost my son a few years ago. You are such an inspiration to many women, pregnant or not! We should take care of our bodies at all times! I must say you’ve had no body fat while pregnant, you looked amazing!!

    • Thu, 26 June 2014
      Reply

      What a tragedy, Joyce. All the best and I know he is your guardian angel now. Must be so sad. xx

    • ERnestine Kontogiannis
      Thu, 26 June 2014
      Reply

      I first fell pregnant at 32 at which time I weighed a healthy 67kgs for my 1.7m height.I had a ‘dream’ pregnancy; no morning sickness or any of the usual symptoms associated with pregnancy. My son was born a healthy 3.8 kgs, I’d gained a total of 10kgs during the pregnancy but lost it in record time.
      I fell pregnant again at 37, weighing in at a not-so-healthy 77kg,s and what a completely different story. I was plagued with morning-sickness (more like all-day sickness), severe heart palpitations, anxiety attacks – I’d gained about the same amount of weight as my first pregnancy, but, to date, I haven’t lost it.
      In my experience, the combination of age, weight and physical fitness made all the difference.

  61. Kaamani
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    I am nearing my 36 week mark! I cannot believe how fast the time has gone by! Been for a scan and baba’s feet are 7cm already and is weighing 2.5kg. I have put one about 10 kgs so far…the text book case as my doc says! I jst scared about the size of those feet…good thing he is a boy!!! 🙂

  62. Damien Blaauw
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    Thank you Jo-Ann, this was very insightful. You touched on some pertinent points, which us as Dad’s can also take which makes the entire experience even more special.

  63. Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    Thank you for all your comments – please keep them coming!

  64. Victoria
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    Hi i`m a mommy of two healthy beautiful children,my first born is a boy and he is ten years old.I was very skinny when i was pregnant with him.I didn`t get any birth pains and was 1month over my due date.My second child is a girl and she is 13months old now,i was a high risk pregnant mommy.I gave birth in George and got C section and that was the hardest 9 months because i was very sick true my pregnancy,when she was born the docters found out that she got jaundice so we stayed longer in George Medic clinic.That was the longest time in my life because we where alone in George and my family is in Oudtshoorn.She is ok now and is the quite and funny,loving baby girl.

  65. Julie
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    Mommyhood without the pregnancy weight issues – adopt! Just one of the pros of the blessing of adoption.

  66. Patience
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    Hi all, thanks Jo for the interesting article and everyone for your comments. I gave birth to my son on the 05th March 2014, i gained 11kg during my pregnancy, I don’t go to the gym I only take long walks sometimes. The problem now is I have lost a lot of weight just not on my tummy..I have heard stories that if you have a Caesar no matter how much you exercise, the tummy never goes back to its size before pregnancy, how true is this?

  67. Gita Sam
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    I’m not mom yet but hope to be one day. I find your information very informative. I know it will help me one day when I’m pregnant and worrying if I’m doing things right

  68. Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    My sister just went back to gym – she’s 6mnths preggies – and she refuses to get a personal trainer. The worry-wart in me is worried she’s gonna do all the wrong things; what’s the best, generic “preggy-friendily” exercises?

    Still trying to convince her to a PT though.

  69. Debbie
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    I would also like to lose weight cause I’m drinking the diet tea Chinese one but its not working.

  70. Merle McConnell
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    My youngest daughter is 19 years old and I read your blogg religiously. I wish a celebrity kept us up to date when I had my children. I desperately needed your fashion tips as everyone still wants to look good whilst pregnant. Your on line stores for babys was beneficial as I purchased baby gifts from 2 of them. Please stay motivating women as we need you. xxx

  71. Conny khanye
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    motherhood its really good feeling i ever had in my life . i had a beautiful girl named my light (Sikhanyiso) for every experience i had during pregnancy until labor. i thank GOD for the Beautiful gift in this World. ….Luv Being a Mother. i lost 30killos thanks to facebooks friendly pages to loose weight……i inspire some of my friends to do it, which i get a friendly respond…..happy motherwood to women who take body shape to be their strength of living

  72. Vanessa Timm
    Thu, 26 June 2014
    Reply

    Shoo totally amazing how us ladies must go through the body changes. …falling pregnant, getting used to the hormonal change going on…..I realise each and every day how blessed us moms must be to be able to bear children. My baby girl is turning 16 on 17 July and I have this emotional roller coaster going on within myself. We have been through a lot since 2007 and here now we are only getting on track now with our lives. I’m losing weight as I started becoming more active. …feel more energetic. ….but it is all about food choices we must make. Joanne love your blog…..All the best to all the ladies! !

  73. Jady Kannemeyer
    Fri, 27 June 2014
    Reply

    Eating for two is a myth. All you have to do is eat healthy, do your exercises, rest when you can and take your vitamins. Eating for two is trouble. Enjoy mommyhood #modernmommy.

  74. Blanche
    Fri, 27 June 2014
    Reply

    Jo-Anne i am pregnant for the second time and loving it. The 1st pregnancy didnt go well after a few weeks experienced a miscarriage but with the support of a loving husband wev moved pass the loss and are enjoying every second of the 2cnd pregnancy. Now i have experienced for the first time ever the painful hunger buster cramps lol its the kind you just cannot ignore so im gonna go against the myth and insist its a reality but keeping it tidy with healthy snacks and getting lots of fruit in as well… i feel great and cant wait to meet my bundle of joy which by now 7months later is still hiding his or her’s sex from us hmmmm #talkaboutsurprises
    #iameatingfor2

  75. Avril isaacs
    Fri, 27 June 2014
    Reply

    Hi there. I feel like a modern mommy even though my boys are 28 and 23. Motherhood to adults are as exhilarating and exciting as to little ones. In a world of social media I needed to get “modern”. I need to know about cars modern fashion modern furnishings etc and it is a whole new world out there. They are embarrassed when people think I’m their sister and we are having so much fun playing along. So to all the modern mommies of babies I am here to tell you to brace yourselves for the most exciting journey of motherhood. Children are not just responsibilities they are blessings. Now off to my third Pilates class thanks to Jo Ann’s inspiration sitting on that ball. Ciao!!!

  76. Taryn
    Fri, 27 June 2014
    Reply

    It’s almost three years later…and I was still using the “I’ve just had a baby” excuse. At the beginning of the year I had a change in mindset.I dropped almost 15kgs and still going strong.Zumba , a healthy diet and having a male (my brother) as my exercise partner, was the boost I needed.During my pregnancy I was much thinner than what I am now.I had morning sickness up until the day I gave birth.Not pleasant.I only picked up 7kgs during my pregnancy.I kept on belly dancing as well.It’s spending those few months at home during maternity leave that I became an emotional eater.How embarrassing when your maternity clothes are too small for you!I never want to be in that bad mental and physical state again.The kangaroo pouch is proving much harder to get rid of but the years isn’t over yet.By December I want to be beach ready.At least we all know that we’re not alone xx

  77. Ilana
    Fri, 27 June 2014
    Reply

    What a great informative article to debunk the myths of eating for two!
    In my pregnancy I ate mostly to avoid nausea in the first trimester but it got way out of hand with me continually snacking on what I thought were healthy snacks but were actually too high in sugar e.g dried fruit and granola bars.
    I subsequently developed mild gestational diabetes and had to do a complete turnaround in my diet in the second and thurs trimesters. Thereafter my weight stayed stagnant :). My daughter is now three months old and I’ve just started excercising and following a healthy diet to lose the last stubborn 5 kgs.
    You look amazing Joanne! My beauty and all round role model for sure!

  78. Kirsty Nelson
    Fri, 27 June 2014
    Reply

    You are an inspiration! You have an amazing body!

  79. Cindy Wade
    Mon, 30 June 2014
    Reply

    Hi Jo. I read the blog to get some real life advice because there is nothing better than actual experience and you’re doing a fantastic job of informing me. Dont forget to blog about how baby manages the flight to Germany and give me all your tricks of the trade because I need it for my 13 hour flight back home nxt year. As for weight gain – I weighed an unhealthy 67kg when I got pregnant and then spent the next 4 months bent over the toilet. It was crazy bad but I lost 5kg! I havent gained any weight since because baba seems to be a picky eater. I can only manage 2 meals a day with a fruit snack inbetween but even so some days either breakfast or supper will get kicked out by his lordship. I can barely go from my house to the corner of our street without wanting to throw up or pass out or both so excercise isn’t an option and in two weeks I start my third trimester. All this hasnt stopped my little bear from being a stomping action figure all the time and I am already so inlove with him. I am just grateful for the gift if my son and the fact he is already looking out for his mama.

  80. Tue, 08 July 2014
    Reply

    I’ve always been a very active and sporty girl so weight is something that has always been important to me. Then I got my married and gained some weight, as many of us do 😉 I decided that I needed to do something about it and joined Weigh Less. It took me 6 months to lose 14 kg’s, bringing my weight to 58 kg’s. Shortly after that, my husband and I conceived. I remained on Weigh Less during my pregnancy and gained a healthy 14 kg’s. Within two weeks of giving birth, I lost the bulk of the pregnancy weight. I was so happy about that. Then my six week check-up came along and with that comes a prescription for birth control haha, needless to say I gained weight!!! I went back onto my eating plan and managed to lose the weight I had gained. Within a month of getting to goal weight I fell pregnant yet again (when my first son was 18 month’s young), this time round I gained 17kg’s. I weighed a whopping 77 kg’s just before our second son was born. I lost only 11 kg’s after his delivery. Somehow I managed to put on all the weight I had gained during my second pregnancy. I was unhappy and uncomfortable!!! I thought there was no hope of losing all the weight I had gained. I decided to go back to Weigh Less for the second time. This happend in November 2013. Since then I have lost 17 kg’s. Today, for the first time, I am wearing a jeans that I wore before I feel pregnant with my first son, and I feel so great!!! I feel happy and confident again. And to me, it’s important that my boy’s have a happy confident Momma. Coz if Momma ain’t happy ain’t nobody happy LOL just kidding. Never give up on your goals. Work hard and results will show up when you do!!! All the best you awesome mums. I simply love this blog 😉

  81. Tue, 08 July 2014
    Reply

    You’re looking amazing Jo-Anne! Well done to you on choosing to breast feed your baby boy! I don’t think many celebrities do this anymore ;( All the best with your precious little family <3

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