Nutritional requirements during pregnancy

Many of us grew up with the idea that you must eat for two during pregnancy. However, this is a myth! While you do need extra vitamins, minerals, and protein, your nutritional requirements during pregnancy don’t mean eating a lot more calories.

Few extra calories needed in pregnancy — no need to eat for two

Before the second trimester, no extra calories are necessary. In the second trimester, an additional 250 calories per day are recommended, increasing to 500 extra calories per day in the third trimester compared to pre-pregnancy needs. These figures illustrate the typical extra calories needed in pregnancy. 

Eating foods with many calories but few vitamins and minerals in pregnancy can lead to excess weight gain and health problems for you and baby.

Nutritional requirements during pregnancy: Focus on key nutrients

Nutritional requirements during pregnancy differ considerably from those of non-pregnant women.

Pregnant women need certain nutrients in higher amounts — vitamins, minerals, and especially protein — while their energy requirements aren’t significantly higher.

Therefore, most doctors recommend that pregnant women take a prenatal vitamin and mineral supplement every day in addition to eating a healthy diet. Taking a supplement ensures that you get enough of those extra nutrients you and your baby need now.

Pregnancy nutrient needs

Pregnant women have unique nutrient needs, especially in terms of certain micronutrients, which are increased by up to 50%

During pregnancy, your micronutrient needs — including iron, folic acid, iodine, and vitamin B6 — rise significantly to support your baby’s growth and development.

Meet your pregnancy nutrient needs with a healthy, nutrient-dense diet — avoid empty calories.