Resolving to shed those extra holiday pounds may sound like a good idea, but for postmenopausal women, maintaining the status quo may be better unless they keep the weight off for good.

Are you convinced that your muffin top isn't hurting anyone, so there's no need to lose it? Think again. A new study shows that packing on extra pounds is bad for your baby - even if you're not pregnant yet.

Weight gain is important during pregnancy, as is weight maintenance. How can they both be achieved? Exercise is the key and is recommended during pregnancy, but is it safe or effective?

Women who are obese during pregnancy put their children at higher risk for asthma. A new study shows that a mother's weight has an effect on the respiratory health of her child.

Nutritionists suggest fish as a healthier choice of protein, but certain fish are high in methylmercury. Methylmercury can be dangerous at high levels - especially for pregnant women.

During pregnancy, mothers are told they need folic acid, also known as folate. This mineral helps prevent neural tube defects, but it doesn't prevent all birth defects.

There may be a window shortly after menopause in which women can slow the development of clogged arteries through a method as simple as taking soy protein supplements.

Very few things are reported to improve with increased weight and advancing age, but hot flashes may be one of them.

The old saying, "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" is certainly sage advice. But apples are having to take a back seat to dried plums in the osteoporosis department.

Menopause can be a rough time. Women suffering from hot flashes, bone density loss and night flashes are usually willing to try diet changes to alleviate their symptoms.