Take the weight gain (and resultant stretch marks) that every one who gets pregnancy has to deal with, and you see just how off-putting the idea of pregnancy can be to the image conscious woman. But while there is really no way to avoid the weight gain that has to accompany every pregnancy, there is plenty that one can do to keep herself from falling into stretch mark's way. Out of the considerable body of literature offering information on how to stay away from stretch marks' way, we have culled these simple tips to help every expectant mother steer clear of them.

1. Be conscious about your food choices during your pregnancy. While there are surely those cravings that come with pregnancy, you don't have to yield to them every time, because doing so could leave you with a huge mess to deal with after the young one is born. Foods that are rich in Vitamin A, for instance, have been known to be major culprits in inducing stretch marks, which means that you should avoid over-indulging in them, and instead opt for foods that are rich in vitamin C, Vitamin A and the mineral zinc, as these have been shown to help in keeping stretch marks away. Take note, though, that reducing intake of foods rich in Vitamin A does not mean avoiding them altogether, as this could have very bad effects on you and the unborn baby.

2. Aim for a steady rather than a rapid gain of weight during your pregnancy. While some considerable degree of weight gain is inevitable during pregnancy, it is within your power as a woman to control the pattern that the weight gain takes place in. If you gain weight too rapidly, it is inevitable that you will find yourself struggling with stretch marks later.

3. Increase your water intake. Increasing your water intake will do wonders on your skin's elasticity, which could keep you out of stretch marks' way, while also doing you and your expected baby a lot of good in many other ways.