Weight Gain during Pregnancy

Total weight gain recommendations during pregnancy depend upon your pre-pregnancy weight.  The Institute of Medicine recommends the following:

  • Underweight  (BMI below 18.5): 28-40 pounds
  • Normal  (BMI 18.5 to 24.9): 25-35 pounds
  • Overweight (BMI 25.0 to 29.9): 15-25 pounds
  • Obese (BMI 30.0 and above): 11-20 pounds

Your health care provider may also recommend an appropriate rate of weight gain during pregnancy.

And, if you are pregnant with twins or triplets, additional weight gain guidelines may be discussed.

Learn more about Body Mass Index (BMI) and calculate your BMI.

For more information about BMI and pregnancy weight gain, speak with a registered dietitian at (314) 996-4987.

Calorie Intake during Pregnancy

Calorie needs during pregnancy depend on your pre-pregnancy weight (as well as other factors, such as having gestational diabetes). 

Generally, 2200 to 2900 calories is an appropriate rangeCalories may be adjusted for those who are overweight or obese or diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes.

Ever heard “you’re eating for two” while pregnant?  The truth is, you need just 340 additional calories per day over your pre-pregnancy calorie requirement beginning in the second trimester of pregnancy; and 450 additional calories daily in the third trimester.

That’s the equivalent of adding a carton of yogurt, a banana and 1/3 cup of brown rice to your day in the second trimester; add an extra ounce of turkey to your sandwich and a handful of grapes to this during your third trimester.  Hardly adding the calories needed for eating for two!

And, no extra calories are needed in the first trimester.

Your health care provider will monitor your total weight gain and rate during your pregnancy and can help you evaluate your calorie needs to support a healthy pregnancy.

For more information about weight gain during pregnancy, contact our registered dietitians at (314) 996-4987 or Email Us.