Weight Gain During Pregnancy?
QUESTION
Dear Nutritionist,
I am 26 years old and 17 weeks pregnant with my first baby. In the first trimester I lost 9 pounds due to not feeling well and lack of appetite. Since about week 13 my appetite has better, but I have still only gained 2 of the lbs back.
How quickly should I be gaining and do you suggest any certain foods to help? I have added a boost supplement daily and try to eat a well balanced diet with many snacks in between my meals. My doctor checked my thyroid levels which were normal.
ANSWER
The general rule of thumb is to gain about 2 to 5 pounds in the first trimester and about 1 pound per week for the rest of the pregnancy. Ultimate weight gain by the end of pregnancy should be between 25 and 35 pounds. It is very important to discuss with your doctor what he/she thinks is an appropriate weight gain for you at this time.
Every women is different and will gain at different rates. Pregnant women need about 300 additional calories (over your maintenance calories) after your first trimester. To meet your additional calorie needs for protein, calories, and essential vitamins and minerals, you should be eating a variety of foods from ALL of the food groups each day. In general that would be:
- 9 or more servings of breads, cereals, and grains (especially whole grains)
- 7 or more servings of fruits and veggies
- at least 3 servings of dairy (milk, yogurt, etc...)
- at least 3 servings (2-3 ounces each) of lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, nuts and dried beans or peas.
These are just general guidelines. You really should speak with your OB/GYN to find out what your specific calorie needs are. If necessary your doctor may refer you to a dietitian that can help you to map out a specific plan that will aid in adequate weight gain. You should also inform your doctor about ANY supplements you are taking such as the Boost.
Good luck with your pregnancy!
-- Kimberly A. Tessmer, R.D., L.D
Kimberly Tessmer
Kimberly A. Tessmer, RD LD has been a registered dietitian since 1992 and is also an Ohio licensed Dietitian. Her educational achievements include a Bachelor of Science in Technology (Dietetics) from Bowling State University in Bowling Green, OH. She currently owns and operates a consulting business called "Nutrition Focus" www.nutrifocus.net, in which she specializes and offers services in the areas of weight management, general nutrition, authoring, menu development and a variety of other services.
To date Kim has authored three books including "The Everything® Nutrition Book", "Tell Me What To Eat If I Have Celiac Disease", and "The Everything® Pregnancy Nutrition Book". In addition, Kim has written numerous articles for various health/nutrition web sites and magazines including Bally Total Fitness Magazine, Well and Healthy Women Magazine and Healthology.com, Inc as well as continuing education courses for www.care2learn.com. She is a member of the American Dietetic Association and the ADA Practice Group, Nutrition Entrepreneurs.
Comments
Weight gain during pregnancy
Weight gain during pregnancy is normal. It doubles and triples as months go by depending on what trimester you are in. It is because of your growing baby and the placenta growth. It is important that you get enough nutrition for you and your baby. Always have your monthly checkups and needed vitamins to ensure your baby's healthy growth and you can loose those weight after your pregnancy so you don't have to worry about that now.