Nutrition Experts
Question:
I’m planning to have a baby. How much weight should I gain during my pregnancy?
Answer:
Source: Institute of Medicine, Weight Gain During Pregnancy: Reexamining the Guidelines, 2009.
It depends on your weight before you get pregnant, according to guidelines from the Institute of Medicine (IOM).
A woman’s Body Mass Index (BMI), a measure of body fat based on weight and height, is used to assess her pre-pregnancy weight. Generally, the recommended weight gain ranges for overweight or obese women are lower than the ranges for underweight or normal weight women.
Research shows that the risk of problems during pregnancy and delivery is lowest when weight gain is kept within a healthy range.
For a general idea of recommended weight gain during pregnancy, calculate your pre-pregnancy Body Mass Index here, then refer to the chart below (weight gain ranges will be higher for women expecting twins).
| Pre-pregnancy Body Mass Index (BMI) | Total Weight Gain Range (pounds) |
|---|---|
| Underweight: <18.5 | 28–40 |
| Normal weight: 18.5-24.9 | 25–35 |
| Overweight: 25.0-29.9 | 15–25 |
| Obese: ≥30.0 | 11–20 |
Pregnant women need between 2,200 calories and 2,900 calories per day, according to the Academy for Nutrition and Dietetics. Generally, calorie needs increase with each trimester as follows:
First trimester: no extra calories
Second trimester: about 350 extra calories per day
Third trimester: about 450 extra calories per day
Spend your extra calories wisely by choosing nutrient-rich foods such as lean proteins, fat-free and low-fat dairy, whole grains, fruits and veggies.
Ask your healthcare practitioner for specific weight gain and calorie recommendations for you.
Now, learn about the link between folic acid and a healthy baby.
Nutritionist Experts
Our Nutrition Experts are registered dietitians who hold master's degrees and are members of the American Dietetic Association and several specialty nutrition groups. They combine over 40 years experience in food and nutrition science, communications and counseling, the culinary arts and the development of nutrition education materials. They are quoted frequently in the national media and have written about nutrition for many major magazines, newspapers, and newsletters.