Decoding The Food Guide Pyramid For Pregnant Women
                     Decoding The Food Guide 
Pyramid For Pregnant Women
• Calorie Requirement:
The food guide pyramid suggests no additional 
calorie need for the first trimester. The second 
trimester demands an extra 350 calories per 
day. The need increases to 500 calories per 
day for the last trimester.
• Weight Gain
The pregnancy weight gain depends on the pre-
pregnancy weight. Gradual weight gain is 
normal with an increase in calorie intake.
• Pregnancy N utrition Food
The food pyramid divides the nutrient intake based on 
source and calorific value. 6–11 small servings on 
whole grain carbohydrate are recommended per day. 
Iron foods and vitamin sources include intake of 3–4 
servings of vegetables and 1–2 fruit servings.
Protein intake requires 2–3 servings of low-fat dairy 
products and 1–2 servings of lean meat, fish, poultry, 
and pulses. Intake of fatty food, refined and sugary 
foods should be minimal.
• Moderate Exercise
Pregnancy nutrition is incomplete without mild 
physical activity. 30 minutes of moderate exercise 
per day is recommended for overall health unless 
contraindicated by a physician.
Quality pregnancy nutrition and a balanced lifestyle 
can assist in a rewarding pregnancy. Minimizing 
stress, avoiding processed food and embracing 
healthy eating habit is the key to a healthy 
pregnancy.