Weight gain and energy needs during pregnancy
During the first trimester of pregnancy, energy requirements increase only slightly—by approximately 70–80 calories per day.
In the second trimester, it is recommended to increase daily caloric intake by about 240–360 calories. However, the exact needs may vary depending on the individual’s weight gain goals.
During the third trimester, an increase of approximately 190–500 calories per day is advised, depending on the specific needs of each pregnant woman.
The recommended weight gain during pregnancy is determined by the woman’s pre-pregnancy body weight.
| Pre-Pregnancy BMI (kg/m²) | Weight Status Recommended Total Weight Gain (kg) |
| <18.5 Λιποβαρής | 12.5-18 |
| 18.5-24.9 Φυσιολογικού βάρους | 11.5-16 |
| 25-29.9 Υπέρβαρη | 7-11.5 |
| >30 Υπέρβαρη | 5-9 |
| Δίδυμη κύηση | 15.9-20.4 |
Dr. Irini Christaki, Clinical Dietitian-Nutritionist, MSc., PhD