Overweight and obesity are today's major nutritional problems in the industrialized countries. They are far more common than all the other nutritional problems combined, but there is no satisfactory definition for this disease and there is no single ratio of increased weight to height, or a determined body mass index (BMI) at which we can say that the associated diseases begin that will limit and shorten life. This problem is very common in day today's life some girls who used to be slim prior to their marriage, gain weight gradually after marriage. This is due to the changed eating habits or eating rich food to which they might not be used to previously. Perhaps a more care­free and comfortable life is also to be blamed for this. This is acceptable to them as well as to their spouses now to consider their weight gain as a sign of good health until they become pregnant. Obesity right from the first month of pregnancy has its own disadvantages. The fatty tissues in the abdomen make the expanding uterus, as the months advance exert great pressure on the bladder and bowels, disturbing the function of these waste eleminating organs. Nothing is near the truth, because the· correct way of sensible eating and mild exercises and activities till the last, facilitates a normal and comfortable delivery of a healthy child.

Some Useful Tips to Prevent Obesity

1. Eat slowly and enjoy meals. Turn off the TV and spend quality time with your partner during meals. Eating meals slowly helps you to recognize your body's signals for feeling full.

2. Plan to eat breakfast together. Breakfast kick-starts your metabolism and helps control hunger throughout the day.

3. Exercise together. Increased physical activity improves heart health by decreasing cholesterol and blood pressure. Sets goals with your partner to walk 1 mile after supper.

4. Don't match each other portion for portion. Men normally require more calories than women to meet their energy needs. Don't feel you need to match your partner's portion sizes or accept second helpings.