During pregnancy, a woman should increase her calorie intake by approximately 300 calories per day during the second and third trimesters to support fetal growth, emphasizing nutritious foods rather than doubling her intake to avoid excessive weight gain.
If a woman is active during her pregnancy, her calorie intake should adjust accordingly to meet increased energy demands. During the first trimester, she does not need additional calories; however, an increase of about 300 calories per day is recommended during the second and third trimesters to support the fetus's growth.
It is also essential to focus on nutritious foods to provide adequate vitamins, minerals, proteins, and lipids. Overconsumption can be harmful, leading to excessive weight gain that may affect the baby's health, such as increasing the risk of diabetes and obesity later in life.