Popular Diets

Summary

Popular diets are a constant in the lives of women. And while some restrictedcalorie plans recommending extreme differences in the contribution of calories from fat, carbohydrate, and protein may promote weight loss in some women, they should not be undertaken during pregnancy. Unfortunately, the scientific literature documenting the prevalence of use of popular diets in pregnant women, or more importantly the effects of such dietary behavior on pregnancy outcomes, is, for all practical purposes, nonexistent. Energy balance is central to the regulation of body weight. During pregnancy, the intent is for energy balance to be positive such that fetal growth and development is well supported by adequate calories and essential nutrients. The coexistence of a state of negative energy balance for the purpose of weight loss during pregnancy will not support optimal gestation. An appreciation of the basic principles of the most established popular diets in the context of nutrition and pregnancy will provide a foundation for the clinician and other healthcare professionals who treat and counsel pregnant women and women of childbearing age. This chapter provides a framework for practitioners from which thoughtful and appropriate discussions can result when approached with questions regarding the potential concerns associated with the practice of such diet behaviors during pregnancy. Without question, the best approach to healthful weight management during pregnancy combines a well-balanced diet with reasonable, routine physical activity and exercise. Habitual consumption of a well planned, energy sufficient diet containing the recommended amount of the macro- and micronutrients for the duration of pregnancy will minimize weight-related issues and other metabolic problems from conception to delivery. Clinicians and practitioners should be familiar with the premise of popular diets so they are prepared to offer appropriate counsel when they encounter dieting behaviors during their patients pregnancy.