Healthy Weight Gain During Pregnancy

Nutrition During Pregnancy

The old adage "eating for two" may be a slight exaggeration, but pregnant mothers should plan to gain some weight during pregnancy.

A good weight gain for normal healthy moms is between 25 and 35 pounds. Women who are underweight when they become pregnant should gain between 28 and 40 pounds. Women who are overweight need to gain between 15 and 25 pounds. Obese women still need to gain at least 15 pounds.

Pregnant women often find that smaller, more frequent meals makes it easier to get the nutrition they need and help them feel energized throughout the day.

Achieve a healthy pregnancy weight by following the Food Guide Pyramid, but moderately increase your servings. Make sure you consume adequate amounts of calcium, iron and folate.

Editor's Note: Queasiness, stomach upset and morning sickness are common during pregnancy. Foods that you normally love may make you feel sick to your stomach. You may need to substitute other nutritious foods. Eating five or six small meals a day instead of three large ones may make you feel better. - CDC