My Bella too carries weight in the mid section and gains so easily...our daughters sound very similar. I did not drink at all during my prengnacies, BUT on her father's side(its always the ex's fault LOL), there is alcoholism down the line with her grandmother and grandfather(including her father)... Im thinking blood Sugar levels play a big role here. I am not as strict as I should be with her diet, but I have to be now.
Im hoping the herbalist will be of help too...I will keep you posted. :)