Do you know most women should gain somewhere between 25 and 35 pounds (11.5 to 16 kilograms) during pregnancy? However, most will gain 2 to 4 pounds (1 to 2 kilograms) during the first trimester, and then 1 pound (0.5 kilograms) a week for the rest of the pregnancy. The amount of weight gain depends on your situation.
Further, overweight women need to gain less (15 to 25 pounds or 7 to 11 kilograms or less, depending on their pre-pregnancy weight) whereas underweight women will need to gain more (28 to 40 pounds or 13 to 18 kilograms). One should gain more weight if she is having more than 1 baby. Women having twins need to gain 37 to 54 pounds (16.5 to 24.5 kilograms).
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet, along with exercise, is the basis for a healthy pregnancy. For most pregnant women, the right amount of calories is:
1,800 calories per day in the 1st trimester
2,200 calories per day in the 2nd trimester
2,400 calories per day in the 3rd trimester
Some women are already overweight when they get pregnant. Other women gain weight too quickly during their pregnancy. Thus it is better to focus on eating the right foods and staying active.
Below are some healthy eating tips to help you get started.
Fresh fruits and vegetables make good snacks. They are full of vitamins and low in calories and fat.
Eat bread, crackers, and cereals made with whole grains.
Choose reduced-fat dairy products. You need at least 4 servings of milk products every day. However, using skim, 1%, or 2% milk will greatly reduce the number of calories and fat you eat. Also, choose low-fat or fat-free cheese or yogurt.
