Calorie Calculator During Pregnancy

Pregnancy Calorie Calculator

Sedentary (Little or no exercise) Lightly Active (Exercise 1-3 days/week) Moderately Active (Exercise 3-5 days/week) Very Active (Hard exercise 6-7 days/week) Extra Active (Very hard exercise & physical job)

Your Estimated Daily Intake

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Calories per day

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Understanding Caloric Needs During Pregnancy

Eating for two doesn't literally mean doubling your food intake. Proper nutrition during pregnancy is about quality and strategic quantity. Caloric needs change significantly as your baby develops, and this calculator helps you estimate the energy required to support both your body and your growing infant.

The Trimester Breakdown

Medical guidelines generally suggest the following caloric additions to your pre-pregnancy maintenance levels:

• First Trimester: Typically, no extra calories are required. The focus should be on nutrient density and managing morning sickness.
• Second Trimester: You generally need about 340 extra calories per day.
• Third Trimester: Your needs increase to approximately 450 extra calories per day.

Calculation Methodology

This calculator uses the Mifflin-St Jeor Equation to determine your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR), applies an activity multiplier (TDEE), and then adds the specific caloric surplus recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) for your specific trimester.

Example Calculation:
A 30-year-old woman, 165cm tall, weighing 70kg, in her second trimester with a sedentary lifestyle:
1. BMR: ~1,415 kcal
2. Maintenance (Sedentary): 1,415 x 1.2 = 1,698 kcal
3. Pregnancy Addition: 1,698 + 340 = 2,038 Calories/Day

Factors That Influence Your Needs

While this tool provides a scientific estimate, several factors can change your actual requirements:

1. Pre-Pregnancy BMI: Women who start pregnancy underweight may need more calories, while those starting at a higher BMI may need fewer additions.
2. Multiples: If you are carrying twins or triplets, your caloric requirements will be significantly higher (often an additional 300 calories per baby).
3. Physical Activity: Staying active is healthy, but if you continue high-intensity training, you must account for that energy expenditure to ensure the baby has enough fuel.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only. Always consult with your OB-GYN or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your prenatal diet.