Struggling with eating and pregnancy

HopingForOne · August 2011

Let me start off by saying that I hope this post makes sense!

So, this is my second pregnancy. Last pregnancy, I was sick for most of the time. When I felt better, I ate everything in sight. I ended up gaining 35 pounds that pregnancy, which all things considered, isn't too bad.

This time, I haven't been sick, and I just don't know how to eat. I know that may sound silly, but in my life, I rotate between overeating, and trying to lose weight. My weight is okay, but the problem is when my doctor tells me "just eat 300 calories more per day than usual"...I don't know what "usual" is supposed to be!

I tried eating healthy, and was feeling really good, but I lost four pounds, so I'm assuming this isn't enough. Does anyone know how many calories the average pregnant woman should be consuming? I'm 5'9, if that helps...

MrsClark8109 · August 2011

I've had an ED for years, which caused my infertility so when my OB said "300 calories first trimester and 600 calories 2nd-3rd " (since there is twins) I explained that she probably wasn't aware of what my normal was...She wrote a reccomendation to a nutritionist, who put the focus on X servings of fruit, veggies, protein, dairy, bread and fat a day and then gave me examples of what constitutes an "average" bread, "average" dairy ect. Its a program based off the guide by the american diabetes association.

The nutritionist was a godsend! Insurance also covered it 100% under "prenatal care" as it was reccomended by the OB.

tusshie2004 · August 2011

When I was pregnant with DS I gained 70 pounds! Woof... I ate whatever I wanted, craved hot and spicy foods. I am glad that I lost most of the weight. Just eat healthy. A lot of fruits and veggies. I was eating every 2-3 hours. I was always hungry. Like you, I was sick and couldn't keep anything down my first trimester. Talk to your doctor if you have concerns.