‘Eating for two’ and ‘putting your feet up’ are common sayings when it comes to pregnancy.

A pregnant woman’s diet and activity levels has an effects on the health of both her and her baby.  To help avoid complications and help women with a high BMI NHS Lanarkshire has a Healthy Lifestyle and Weight Management in Pregnancy Service.

Susan Short, public health nutritionist who runs the service, said: “It is not about going on a diet but looking at making healthier changes and what nutrients and vitamins the babies needs and avoid excess weight gain during pregnancy. It is really about maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy.

Midwife, Jacui Holmes jointly runs the service with Susan. Jacqui said: “Pregnancy is not a time for losing weight. It is about remaining active and dispelling the myth about eating for two.

“Evidence suggests that the more you weigh going into pregnancy the higher the risk of antenatal, Labour and Postnatal complications.”

Julie attended the service following a suggestion from her midwife. Julie said: “The service is great. Jacqui and Susan don’t tell you what to do. It is about reflecting on my own habits and they make suggestions as to how I can make healthier changes to make it better for myself and my baby. It is definitely worth attending the clinic. Jacqui and Susan are great and they are very reassuring.”