A: Nobody looks forward to gaining weight, Heidi, but pregnancy is not the time to avoid foods to keep your weight down. When you concentrate on making sure that the foods you eat are high in nutrients, such as fruits, vegetables and good protein sources, you'll find you naturally have some weight control. The only foods you should be avoiding are convenience and junk foods, which are high in fat, salt and have very low nutrient density.

We recommend limiting your intake of alcohol and caffeine, including caffeinated sodas. I would be cautious about using artificial sweeteners while you're pregnant; a little bit of sugar is much better than a lot of aspartame. Also, if you are a sushi lover, please do not indulge unless the dish is cooked.