Does nutrition during preg determine wt and ht & health or genetics and overall health of pregancy?

Question

I had some comlications of pre-term contractions with limited activity with my 3rd baby? He was 19in 8lbs is that normal?

My 1st baby was 21 in 8lbs, and now she's just average for ht in girls. i thought if baby is tall at birth
child would continue to be tall??

Answer 1

It could be a combination of both. Genetics can play a part in height and weight, but so does nutrition. If a person doesn't eat enough or properly, than it would be hard to have a really healthy baby. And alternatively, some people take the best care of themselves and still have small babies.

19 in and 8 lbs is very normal.

Answer 2

It's both. And yes nutrition during pregnancy DOES have an effect on the baby. I have no idea where the other answerer came up with the idea that it doesn't. That goes against every single pregnancy source I have come across and what my doctors have told me - and it makes absolutely NO sense. (I'd love to see a citation of these numerous studies). Take a look at these: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/39129.php
http://www.news-medical.net/?id=10914
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/TurningPoints/story?id=3414169&page=1

And your diet and genetics can both also affect how your body handles pregnancy. Diet is very important in avoiding preeclampsia and other complications.

But only your doctor can advise you about your specific situations and whether or not what you have experienced is "normal."

Answer 3

In the womb, there is only so much they can grow. My son was 8 pounds, 21.25 inches, I am 6ft 2, so he had some room. It depends on the size of the uterus and what it can hold, my ob told me cause i was worried that with this being my 2nd child, it would be a little bigger. She told me not to worry, the body knows when to "make" the baby stop growing.

Answer 4

Yes, that is actually above normal.

What you eat does not effect the size or health of the baby, they have done extensive research on this subject. Because the over all health of the child bearing population in industrialized countries is so healthy before pregnancy, no matter what or how much, when or how little they eat, it doesnt effect the end result.

Answer 5

yes that is a very normal weight and length

genetics can have a lot to do with it, and nutrition to. if you eat right and take vitamins then your baby has a better chance of having a heathly birth weight.