Did you know that according to the dietary guidelines for Americans, women should be eating between 1600 and 2400 calories every day? If you are pregnant, you are usually told that you should be eating for two. That translates to about 3200 to 4800 calories a day. 

Taking this ‘eating for two’ business seriously could result in a lot of unwanted weight gain. You are actually not ‘eating for two’ and the calorie increase needn’t be as drastic as that. Keep reading this pregnancy weight guide to find out the answer to the question: how much weight should I gain during pregnancy? 

Each Trimester Will Have a Specific Weight Increase Mandate

In the first couple of months, you might have morning sickness, so you won’t end up gaining too much weight. Similarly, you are not going to gain any weight in the last month of pregnancy. 

Here are the averages by trimester:

  • First trimester – 1-4.5 pounds per week
  • Second trimester – 1-2 pounds per week
  • Third trimester (only for around 2 months) – 1-2 pounds per week

Wondering where all that weight gain goes to? Your baby only takes up to 8 pounds. The rest goes to the placenta, amniotic fluid, breast tissue, stored fat, blood supply, and a bigger uterus. 

Weight Gain Guidelines Also Depend on Your Starting Point

This is something many pregnant women don’t realize, but your starting point matters quite a bit in how much pregnancy weight gain is normal for you. Here’s a brief guide on this.

  • Average weight – gain 25-35 pounds during pregnancy
  • Underweight – gain 28-40 pounds during pregnancy 
  • Overweight – gain 15-25 pounds during pregnancy 

These are merely averages on pregnancy weight gain, but you get the picture. 

Avoid Overeating, but Also Avoid Eating Empty Calories

You are going to be eating 200-300 calories extra per day, but you need to ensure that all your calories are carefully chosen. They shouldn’t be coming from chips, crackers, or candy. Include nutritious and healthy options in your daily diet, like:

  • Green leafy vegetables 
  • Lean protein options (no uncooked seafood)
  • Complex carbohydrates
  • Fruits
  • Nuts and seeds

Speak to your doctor or medical professional about what to include and not to include in your pregnancy diet. Also, if you are getting close to your due date, then one thing you could try is curb walking to induce labor. Read more about it here: https://alldayparenting.com/curb-walking-to-induce-labor/.

Answered: How Much Weight Should I Gain During Pregnancy?

With this, you have your answer to the question – how much weight should I gain during pregnancy? All the figures given in this article are averages, so don’t get too perturbed if you don’t follow the exact guidelines. A few pounds here and there isn’t something to worry about.

As long as you are feeling good in your skin, and your medical professional is happy with your progress, you have good to go.

Keep reading through related articles on pregnancy weight tips to learn more.