Surrogacy and BMI: Why Maintaining a Healthy Weight is Critical for a Successful Pregnancy.
Maintaining a normal BMI (body mass index) is important when considering becoming a surrogate for several reasons.
Firstly, a healthy BMI can increase the chances of a successful pregnancy and reduce the risk of complications. Women with high BMI are at an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes, which can lead to a range of complications such as preterm delivery, high birth weight, and respiratory distress syndrome in the baby.
Secondly, high BMI can increase the risk of developing hypertension and pre-eclampsia, which can be dangerous for both the mother and baby.
Finally, high BMI can make it more difficult for healthcare providers to monitor the growth and development of the baby, leading to complications such as fetal macrosomia. A normal BMI can ensure the safety of the surrogate and the baby throughout the pregnancy. Many intended parents seek surrogates with a healthy BMI as it is an indicator of overall good health and fitness, reassuring them that the surrogate can carry their child to term.
What Can You Do to Reach a Healthy BMI?
Here are several ways to achieve a healthy and normal BMI (body mass index):
- Adopt a healthy and balanced diet: Focus on eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Limit your intake of processed and high-calorie foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol.
- Engage in regular physical activity: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, most days of the week. You can also incorporate strength training exercises to help build muscle and improve your metabolism.
- Practice portion control: Be mindful of your serving sizes and avoid overeating. Use smaller plates, measure your portions, and avoid eating in front of the TV or computer, as this can lead to mindless eating.
- Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night, as lack of sleep can interfere with weight management and increase the risk of chronic health conditions.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can contribute to weight gain and make it difficult to lose weight.
Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as through meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
Remember, achieving and maintaining a healthy BMI is a long-term goal that requires consistent effort and lifestyle changes. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet or exercise routine.