Guide

Dubai Nightlife: The Best Bars for Women in 2026

The Best Dining Offers in Dubai: Chic Restaurants, Lounges, Beach Clubs and Girls Nights

Sink Into Serenity: Inside Dubai’s Most Luxurious Sand Bath Experience at Cinq Mondes Spa

The Case for Music: Why Dubai’s Expat Mums Are Choosing Aureus

Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series - An Experience They Keep Coming Back To

Top 10 Most Affordable Budget Airlines in the UAE For Your Next Trip

Outdoor Movie Nights Return to JLT Dubai: Cinema Under the Stars Is Back for the Winter Season

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

Classifieds

Jobs

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements

Dubai Announces Pilot Launch of 4-Day Work Week For Employees

UAE Job Loss Insurance Claim Rejected? Here's Why It Could Happen

How to Claim UAE Job Loss Insurance: Eligibility and Step-by-Step Guide

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

Can I Get Fired in the UAE For My Mental Health Condition?

Dubai Dedicates AED 150 Million Government Support Fund For Influencers

How to Deal With Workplace Harassment in the UAE

The UAE's New End-of-Service Programme, Explained for Residents

Events

Don’t Miss It: DAZ Festival 2026 is the Ultimate Family Day Out This April

Dubai Polo Gold Cup Series - An Experience They Keep Coming Back To

Wicked Makes Its Middle East Debut at Dubai Opera and It's Unmissable

Outdoor Movie Nights Return to JLT Dubai: Cinema Under the Stars Is Back for the Winter Season

Real Madrid World is Celebrating World Football Day With AED 199 Tickets

List of UAE Public Holidays in 2025: Announced and Expected Dates

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

Eid Al Fitr 2025 in the UAE: When is the Long Weekend?

Ramadan 2025 in Dubai: List of Ramadan Markets to Explore

Education

The Case for Music: Why Dubai’s Expat Mums Are Choosing Aureus

AL JABR EFI Opens Its French Nursery and Kindergarten in Dubai

Why Expat Families in the UAE Are Choosing Online School Over Traditional Classrooms

Dubai Private School Hosts Rare Art Exhibition: "Royal Lineage Across a Thousand Years of History"

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

Art, Culture, and Inspiration Come Alive: A One-of-a-Kind Celebration at BC Academy

Getting Kids to Cooperate Without Punishment or Rewards - Aware Parenting with Eva from Kisari.Kids

Back-to-School, Reimagined: How UAE Families Are Choosing a Smarter Start to the School Year

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Money

Divorce in Dubai Explained: A 2026 Guide to UAE Family Law, Custody and Your Rights

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai

Marital Breakdown & Divorce: A Guide for Expat Mums Living in Dubai and Across the UAE

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

How to Pay UAE Fines in Instalments Using Tabby

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

6 Financial Resolutions to Make for the New Year

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Home

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai

Getting Kids to Cooperate Without Punishment or Rewards - Aware Parenting with Eva from Kisari.Kids

Are "Own Visa" and Freelancer Visa Domestic Workers Legal in the UAE?

Hiring a Maid in the UAE: 5 Legal Red Flags

Ask a UAE Flower Shop: Your Most Common Questions, Answered

FYI Dubai is Banning All Single Use Bags From June 1

Carrefour's 'Choose Better' Programme is Here to Reward Healthier Choices With 10x the Points

Are UAE Domestic Helpers Allowed to Work on a Trial Period and Hired After?

Pet Breeding in the UAE: Is it Allowed and Where to Find Legal Pet Breeders

Car

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Booking Taxis in Dubai: How to Hail a Taxi Through WhatsApp

What Are the Requirements For a Car Loan in Dubai?

Dubai Public Commute Timings & Road Closures for New Year's Eve

UAE Petrol Prices Will Increase in August 2024

Head's Up! Dubai Taxi Fares Will Increase in May 2024

UAE Announces New Fuel Prices For May 2024

Missing UAE License Plates: How to Report a Lost Plate or Reclaim Yours

Authorities to Waive All Dubai Traffic Fines Incurred on April 16

Wellness

Managing Anxiety During Uncertain Times: Practical Strategies to Stay Mentally Strong

Top Tips to Have a Healthy Heart in the UAE

9 Warning Signs for Breast Cancer

Where to Get Free Breast Cancer Screening in the UAE 2025

Win Cash Prizes Up to AED 300 For Every Kilo Lost With UAE's Weight Loss Challenge

Discover "The New You" at Zieda's Aesthetic Clinic in Dubai

Top Ladies-Only Gyms and Fitness Centres in Dubai

Say Goodbye to Wrinkles With Mediclinic's Botox Mondays Offer

Get Expert Healthcare and Wellness Delivered to Your Doorstep in Dubai Within 30 Minutes

Shop

Shopping In Dubai

Best Online Shopping Sites in Dubai and UAE

An A-Z Guide to Dubai's Popular Malls

What To Wear At The Beach In Dubai

14 Hilarious Realities of Visiting Dubai Mall

Every Day is a Discount Day on THIS Deals Site

Cityland Mall Preview: Dubai's New Nature-Inspired Shopping Mall

EWmums

EWfood

ewmoda

lowcarbing during pregnancy

497

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 16 August 2012 - 10:30

I have just found out to be pregnant with my second baby. I have started low carb about a month ago and I was doing great untill recently when I was not losing anymore and found out I was prego. I gained almost 40 kg with my first one without overeating and only lost 25 so far. I am terrified that this time it will be a similar story and starrting overweight allready it's not a good thing for both baby and I.
I will disscuss this with my doctor when I see her in September but meanwhile, what do you all know about continuing a low carb (not no carb) diet during pregnancy? I do eat plently of vegetables and some fruit ( and apple or 2 a day) but i just don't touch any bread, rice,cereal, etc. Is this considered unhealthy during pregnancy? Do I really have to have bread and stuff?

Log in to post new content in the forum.

kiwispiers15400

2782

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 17 August 2012 - 10:40

you just have to give your body to your baby for a year of your life, and then you get it back :( someone quite forgot to tell my body this :\: :) lol I didn't say you got it back in the same state you loaned it out in! :) I've been either pregnant or breastfeeding (or both) for the last 3 years now and guess I will be for another 2 years at least, but I do look forward to the distant day when my body is all mine again, to pamper or abuse as I see fit, ;)

497

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 17 August 2012 - 01:35

I [b'>gained almost 40 kg[/b'> with my first one without overeating and only lost 25 so far. I am terrified that this time it will be a similar story and starrting overweight allready it's not a good thing for both baby and I. Best of luck. I dont know enough but I dont think there is anything in commercialised cereal, bread, or other processed carbs which help anyone, pregnant or no. Every single healthy diet and even our friend Atkins give the massive thumbs up for lots of green leafy vegs. Im curious about the massive weight gain as I think its in my future if I fall pregnant. My mum and sisters all blew up when pregnant and yet some other friends have delicate little bumpoids and its so unfair! We are TTC now and my hubby wants me to rest all the time and I know Im getting flabbier and fatter and will have no stamina so would be keen to exercise during pregnancy but not sure if its possible (24/7 morning sickness? risks etc) What advice did you have in the first pregnancy ? I think a big part of the weight gain was due to quitting smoking as soon as i found out to be pregnant. Before that i was kind of suppressing my appetite with coffe and ciggarets and ofc my metabolism slowed down when i suddenly stopped. I also had a huge fibroid which MIGHT have had something to do with it too. Genetics ofc are a huge contribution and there has not been a single woman in my familly that did not gain a minimum of 25 kgs with their pregnancies. My obs Gyn just lost hope in the end as she realised i was putting on weight by breathing only, and she said that some women just gain a lot , nothing to do :((. I did lose 20 kgs within a week of giving birth but ofc struggled with the remaining 20 as i never went back to smoking afterwards. I almost reached my pre pregnancy weight about a year ago but got pregnant again and misscaried at 8 weeks. I gained 10 kgs within those 2 months too!! I must retain a lot of water as i can't explain where is this weight coming from. I am 5 weeks along now and have already put up a kg while being on a diet :) For now , i will increase my fruit and veg intake just to make sure i stay out of ketosis and hopefully this way i will manage to control the weight monster this time round . :):)

3376

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 16 August 2012 - 14:58

To the OP, there is nothing detrimental about going gluten free, bread free during pregnancy. It is not necessary to eat junky carbs in order to stay out of ketosis. That should help subside the weight gain, as other posters have said. There is also something to be said about high protein without much carbs--this can stress the kidneys as carbs pare protein. Maybe you don't have kidney issues, but it's worth avoiding that possibility.

1530

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 16 August 2012 - 14:49

I [b'>gained almost 40 kg[/b'> with my first one without overeating and only lost 25 so far. I am terrified that this time it will be a similar story and starrting overweight allready it's not a good thing for both baby and I. Best of luck. I dont know enough but I dont think there is anything in commercialised cereal, bread, or other processed carbs which help anyone, pregnant or no. Every single healthy diet and even our friend Atkins give the massive thumbs up for lots of green leafy vegs. Im curious about the massive weight gain as I think its in my future if I fall pregnant. My mum and sisters all blew up when pregnant and yet some other friends have delicate little bumpoids and its so unfair! We are TTC now and my hubby wants me to rest all the time and I know Im getting flabbier and fatter and will have no stamina so would be keen to exercise during pregnancy but not sure if its possible (24/7 morning sickness? risks etc) What advice did you have in the first pregnancy ?

355

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 16 August 2012 - 14:14

you just have to give your body to your baby for a year of your life, and then you get it back :( someone quite forgot to tell my body this :\: :)

kiwispiers15400

2782

Posts

EW EXPERT

Latest post on 16 August 2012 - 13:55

I looked into this too, basically as you say stay out of ketosis. You def don't have to eat grains (cavemen didn't eat grains) but you do actually need to gain/maintain a small amount of weight with your pregnancy and your body should not be in a sate of stress, not worth the risk. So basically eat fruit (simple carbs) and vegies but no biggie to stay away from fairly nutritionally valueless refined carbs like white bread, pasta and rice, eat healthy fats as fat soluble vitamins are important during pregnancy. Probably best to avoid ketosis int the first few months of breastfeeding too, believe me I [b'>know[/b'> how you feel, but end of day, you just have to give your body to your baby for a year of your life, and then you get it back, along with a healthy happy baby. I'm super stressed as I'm 32 weeks pregnant and have to be a bridesmaid in 6 months, I know from last time I will not have lost my baby weight by then at all, but can't risk my baby just to ft a dress :(

4062

Posts

EW MASTER

Latest post on 16 August 2012 - 13:29

Hi Eli1979 Congratulations on your pregnancy! I don't know enough about the nutritional aspects of low carbing when pregnant so I can only comment from personal experience. I normally follow a low carb diet but I'm currently 11 weeks pregnant with my fourth child and the only thing that stops me vomiting 24/7 is carbs. I'm not going overboard and stuffing my face but I am eating whole grain bread, rice, pasta etc. Salad is making me gag and fruit just doesn't deal with the nausea. So, my advice would be to seek professional advice on the the effect of low carbs during pregnancy but also to listen to your body.

497

Posts

EW EXPLORER

Latest post on 16 August 2012 - 12:40

thank you everyone for sharing your experience..i guess my worry is the presence of ketones during a low carb diet, as they will still be present at 40- 50 grams of carbs a day. I have googled a bit and it seems the general opinion is to stay out of ketosis during pregnancy but it is hard to do that while low carbing as for me getting out of it it would be at around 60 g which is a LOT of carbs coming from veggies and whole bread and cereals. <em>edited by Eli1979 on 16/08/2012</em>

37

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 16 August 2012 - 12:25

I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes when I was pregnant and my doctor put me on a no carb/no sugar diet. I did not gain any weight in the last 7 months of pregnancy (which means I actually lost weight since my weight stayed the same even though baby was growing). I had a perfectly healthy baby girl who is not sickly (actually she has NEVER been sick - 1 year old). I never heard that you should cut out carbs. Def cut out simple carbs and eat only complex carbs if you need it.. I did not eat patatoes, pasta etc. Only wholewheat bread and low carb wraps. This diet helped me alot bc I didnt need to loose a lot of weight after the pregnancy (only the few I gained in the first 3 months when I didnt know I had GD.) Hope this helps! And congrats!

704

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 16 August 2012 - 11:46

High protein/low carb is fine when pregnant, not Atkins extreme, but 40gm a day should suffice. Make sure you keep your water up, take your prenatals and calcium supplements also. There are things which may say otherwise but realistically a healthy diet, high in colourful vege, fruits, fish, meat etc is what is important. You do need grains, so get those with highly seeded very dark rye, even oats. Congratulations on your pregnancy! Agreed. I was 10kg overweight when I became pregnant and my doctor told me to avoid starches (potatoes rice etc) and eat the healthier alternatives but at about 40 g a day tops.

ScottishGal456232

146

Posts

EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 16 August 2012 - 10:40

hi Eli1979, I have the book what to expect when expecting and it advises not to follow a low carb diet when pregnant. Carbs are important for bubs development.. Speak to your dr who can refer you to a nutritionist who can work out a healthy eating plan for you.. Also look into the GI diet. The GI diet is allowed during pregnancy as it is more of a healthy eating plan than a diet.. You have carbs in your diet but the right kind of carbs. hope that helps, good luck. x

Log in to post new content in the forum.

ON EXPATWOMAN TODAY

AL JABR EFI Early Childhood Centre | French nursery in Dubai

AL JABR EFI Opens Its French Nursery and Kindergarten in Dubai

Dubai women dining offers guide 2026

The Best Dining Offers in Dubai: Chic Restaurants, Lounges, Beach Clubs and Girls Nights

Best music schools for kids in Dubai | Aureus Academy UAE

The Case for Music: Why Dubai’s Expat Mums Are Choosing Aureus

Dubai Nightlife: The Best Bars for Women in 2026

Dubai Nightlife: The Best Bars for Women in 2026

UAE Family Law 2026 | Divorce, Custody & Personal Status Guide for Expat Residents

Divorce in Dubai Explained: A 2026 Guide to UAE Family Law, Custody and Your Rights

Managing Anxiety during Uncertain Times: Practical Strategies to Stay Mentally Strong

Managing Anxiety During Uncertain Times: Practical Strategies to Stay Mentally Strong

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai | Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai

Top Online Schools in the UAE for Kids and Teenagers: CambriLearn

Why Expat Families in the UAE Are Choosing Online School Over Traditional Classrooms

A Guide to DAZ Festival 2026 in Al Ain | Tickets, Activities, Food & Beverages, Shows, Events & More

Don’t Miss It: DAZ Festival 2026 is the Ultimate Family Day Out This April

How to get a divorce in Dubai as an expat resident

Marital Breakdown & Divorce: A Guide for Expat Mums Living in Dubai and Across the UAE

Royal Lineage Across a Thousand Years of History exhibition at BC Academy International School Dubai news

Dubai Private School Hosts Rare Art Exhibition: "Royal Lineage Across a Thousand Years of History"

10 Essential Steps to Secure Your Child’s Educational Future

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

Psammotherapy at Raffles the Palm Dubai

Sink Into Serenity: Inside Dubai’s Most Luxurious Sand Bath Experience at Cinq Mondes Spa

How to Pay UAE Fines in Instalments Using Tabby

How to Pay UAE Fines in Instalments Using Tabby

Kisari Kids - Awareness Parenting Coach Eva Szorad Interview

Getting Kids to Cooperate Without Punishment or Rewards - Aware Parenting with Eva from Kisari.Kids

Top online British and US High Schools in the UAE: CambriLearn

Back-to-School, Reimagined: How UAE Families Are Choosing a Smarter Start to the School Year

Top 10 Low Cost Airlines in the UAE

Top 10 Most Affordable Budget Airlines in the UAE For Your Next Trip

Top Nursery School Kids Summer Camps in Dubai 2025

Embark on a Summer Adventure at Kids First Group Universe!

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Dubai Expat Resident Receives Commemorate Passport Stamp After 60 Years

Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Hidden Costs of Expat Life in Dubai (and How to Outsmart Them)

Travel influencer academy in Dubai

Dubai Just Launched a Travel Influencer Academy

Central Bank of UAE reveals new official currency symbol for the Emirati dirham

UAE Unveils New Official Dirham Symbol, Inspired By the Country's Flag

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed announces 3 best UAE government departments

Pictured: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed at a UAE Cabinet meeting.

H.H Sheikh Mohammed Ranks 3 Best & Worst UAE Government Departments

New 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

There's a 10-Year UAE Residency Visa for Dubai Content Creators and Influencers

Breakfast with penguins at Ski Dubai Mall of the Emirates

You Can Now Enjoy Breakfast With Penguins in Dubai

How to convert another country's drivers license in Dubai

How to Convert a Non-UAE Driving License in Dubai: A Complete Guide

Registrations open for EYFS curriculum Willow Children's Nursery in Dubai

Where to Choose the Best EYFS Children's Nursery in Dubai Marina

Outdoor cinemas in Dubai for the winter season 2024

The Best Outdoor Cinemas in Dubai to See Open-Air Movies This Winter

Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School in Dubai

Introducing the Executive Hospitality Programme at South View School Dubai

Expat legal consultants in the UAE | Dr. Hassan Elhais

Meet Dr. Hassan Elhais: A Pillar of Legal Expertise for Expats in the UAE

Saray Spa promotions at JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai

This Luxury Dubai Spa Has Some of the Very Best Breaks To Escape To

A Complete Guide How to Get an Influencer License in Dubai and UAE

How to Get a UAE Influencer License: Step-By-Step Guide & Requirements