7,6% of pregnant women suffer from an eating disorder and there are many among them who report an obsession with not gaining weight and not losing their shape. We talk today about what is pregorexia and those who suffer from this mental illness, as well as some tools to address it appropriately.
Pregorexia, what is it?
Women who suffer from pregorexia report fear of getting fat no longer being able to regain shape after giving birth. They become obsessed with weight and in their check-ups they do not present a gain consistent with the length of gestation, a fact that is usually significant in detecting it.
Furthermore, they present Other symptoms of eating disorders, from controlling each intake by counting calories, to vomiting after eating and obsessively weighing oneself. Even so, it is not easy to detect it if there are no other signs such as an unhealthy concern about pregnancy or symptoms of depression.
What to do to avoid gaining weight during pregnancy?
A woman with a weight according to her height usually gain between 11 and 16 kilos. Physical, emotional or hormonal changes, as well as a greater sedentary lifestyle, can, however, cause this figure to vary significantly from one pregnant woman to another.
keep a healthy weight During pregnancy it is important for both the mother and the baby. Fortunately, there are various strategies that can help you not gain excessive weight and maintain good health. weight in pregnancy:
Exercises for pregnant women in the gym
During pregnancy it is important to exercise, but also to know what to do and what not to do. High-impact exercises and those that may pose a risk of falls or impacts to the abdomen should be avoided.
It may be interesting, for example, to perform strength exercises for pregnant women in the gym, always supervised by a professional. In addition to pelvic floor strengthening exercises, Pilates or yoga adapted to pregnant women. Remember, however, to consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program.
To eat a balanced diet
Eating a balanced and varied diet is essential to avoid excessive weight gain. It is important to include in this healthy food, such as fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, legumes and whole grains. And reduce or avoid ultra-processed foods, rich in sugars and saturated fats.
Walk
Walking is another great way to exercise during pregnancy, as it is a low impact exercise It does not require special equipment and you can do it wherever and whenever you want. Walking at least 30 minutes a day, preferably on flat terrain or with slight inclines, not only helps you keep your weight under control, but also improves blood circulation, strengthens muscles and reduces the risk of developing certain complications during pregnancy .
How to help women suffering from pregorexia?
How can we help a woman who suffers from pregorexia? If you know of a similar case, you should know that although it may be difficult, there are useful strategies to help women who suffer from this disorder. You will have to be patient and of course apply positive reinforcement and encourage her to seek professional help, as we share below:
Positive reinforcement
Positive reinforcement is an essential technique to support women who suffer from or are vulnerable to pregorexia. Instead of criticizing or making negative comments about your physical appearance or your way of handling your pregnancy, it is important to provide praise and encouragement for positive changes that are happening. These positive stimuli will help improve your self-esteem and foster a healthy relationship with your body.
Be patient
Patience is also essential in the help process. Changing eating habits and deep-rooted thoughts is not a one-day thing. Recovery doesn't happen overnight and every small step towards improvement is significant and should be celebrated. Being understanding and patient will make a big difference in the emotional and physical well-being of those women who suffer from this condition.
Professional Help
Seeking professional help is essential to properly address pregorexia. Mental health and nutrition experts can provide specialist guidance and support to explore the underlying causes of concerns about appearance and weight, and help develop a healthier view of food and the body during pregnancy.
Pregorexia is a serious and delicate mental illness that requires a compassionate and multidisciplinary approach. With the right support, positive reinforcement, patience, and professional help, however, it is possible to help women overcome this condition.