The health of unborn babies is being put at risk as obesity levels among pregnant women reaches epidemic levels, according to experts. Britain's health watchdog, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has been forced to issue new guidelines encouraging women in England to attain a healthy weight before they get pregnant and also advises them against eating for two once they conceive. Bosses at the organisation say almost half of women of childbearing age are overweight or obese, which could harm their child. Professor Mike Kelly, NICE public health director, says, "Women should understand that weight loss after birth takes time, and physical activity and gradual weight loss will not affect their ability to breastfeed. Losing weight gradually can actually help women maintain a healthy weight in the long term." (CL/WNWCCB/MJ)
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