From the moment of conception, your baby relies on the food you eat to supply energy, protein, calcium, vitamins, iron, and other minerals. Making nutritious food choices and taking your prenatal vitamins as your doctor prescribed can mean:
- Fewer complications during pregnancy and delivery
- Less chance of birth defects
- Less chance of a premature baby
- A stronger, healthier baby at birth
- A stronger, healthier you
Weight gain and calorie intake
When you are pregnant, you need to boost your daily intake of calories. Your unborn baby needs about 300 calories for growth and development.
During the first trimester, you may need less than 300 extra calories daily, unless you're trying to compensate for starting out underweight. Later in your pregnancy, your metabolism will speed up and you may need more than 300 extra calories daily.
| Pre-pregnancy body type | Weight gain (lbs) |
|---|---|
| Average Women | 25 to 35 |
| Slender Women | 28 to 40 |
| Overweight Women | 15 to 25 |
Proper weight gain helps ensure a healthy-sized baby. The amount of weight you should gain depends on your body frame before pregnancy.
Your doctor will be monitoring your weight very closely and will advise you on your personal ideal weight gain.
Expecting? Estimate your due date with this online pregnancy wheel.
Click here for an interactive guide to a baby's growth and development during a typical pregnancy.
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