Final answer:
Pregnant women should increase their daily calorie intake by approximately 300 calories, mainly in the second and third trimesters, to support fetal growth while avoiding excessive weight gain that may lead to health issues for the baby.
Step-by-step explanation:
During pregnancy, it is recommended to increase calorie intake by about 300 extra calories per day, primarily during the last trimester.
The myth that a pregnant woman needs to double her pre-pregnancy caloric intake is incorrect. In reality, most women will only need an additional 300 extra calories daily when they are pregnant to support the fetus's growth, especially during the second and third trimesters. It is crucial to manage caloric intake to prevent excessive weight gain, which can increase the risk of the baby developing diabetes and obesity later in life. An increase in nutrient-dense foods is essential for both the mother's and baby's health.
Specific considerations for added nutrition might include increased needs for proteins, lipids, vitamins, and minerals. Intake of calories should not be just any food, but those that provide high nutritional value. Note that during the first trimester, no additional calories are necessary. However, a weight gain of about 0.45 kg (1 lb) per month is typical. The body's requirements for energy should always be balanced with physical activity levels and metabolic demands to achieve optimal health outcomes for both mother and child.