Calories Rise Late, Not Early
Per the Institute of Medicine (IOM) and ACOG, most people need no extra calories in the first trimester, about +340 kcal/day in the second, and about +452 kcal/day in the third — added to pre-pregnancy maintenance, not to a deficit.
Weight-Gain Targets by Pre-Pregnancy BMI
| Pre-pregnancy BMI | Category | Recommended Total Gain |
|---|---|---|
| <18.5 | Underweight | 28–40 lb |
| 18.5–24.9 | Normal | 25–35 lb |
| 25.0–29.9 | Overweight | 15–25 lb |
| ≥30 | Obese | 11–20 lb |
Most gain happens after the first trimester. Track the trend, not daily swings.
Use the Pregnancy Calorie Calculator for a personalized number, and read the eating-for-two myth. Start from the Pregnancy hub.
Educational only. Your obstetrician adjusts targets based on weight trend, multiples, and health conditions.