Obesity in pregnancy. Part 2: management.

Obesity is placing a huge burden on healthcare resources and the wellbeing of individuals. The first article in this two part series (October 2012) reviewed the prevalence of obesity in pregnancy and the increased risks for pregnant women to their own and their babies' health. Management of obesity during pregnancy also places a large burden on midwifery resources.

Obesity in pregnancy. Part 1: prevalence and risks.

There is growing emphasis on achieving a healthy weight before and during pregnancy, but midwives are seeing increasing numbers of pregnant women who are overweight or obese. Women who are obese when they become pregnant may face increased risks to their own and their babies' health and are more likely to experience complications in labour. Midwives are in a key position to help pregnant women become aware of the increased risks, and can signpost to a healthy diet and lifestyle during pregnancy to avoid excessive weight gain.

Wheat bran: its composition and benefits to health, a European perspective.

Wheat bran is a concentrated source of insoluble fibre. Fibre intakes are generally lower than recommendations. This paper reviews the physiological effects of wheat bran and the health benefits it may provide in terms of the prevention of diseases such as colon and breast cancers, cardiovascular disease, obesity and gastrointestinal diseases.

Eating your words: getting the right messages across.

Routine visits to primary care settings give health professionals a valuable opportunity to discuss sexual health with women, but may also be a first step in discussing a pregnancy; planned or otherwise. Since nutrition plays a vital role in any healthy pregnancy, it's a golden opportunity to give advice about good nutrition--both for the expectant mum and for her growing family--to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy. Dr Frankie Phillips here provides plenty of information about what constitutes a healthy diet during pre-conception and pregnancy.