Facts and Fallacies
Advice, beliefs and stories about pregnancy and nutrition abound. While some may be beneficial, others are potentially harmful. If you are unsure about something you are told, ask a health care practitioner for clarification. Some common misconceptions and facts follow.

Fallacy: Now that you are pregnant, you should be eating for two.

Fact: It is true that nutrient needs increase (see Table 3), but energy requirements only increase by about 300 kilocalories per day for the second and third trimester of pregnancy. A relatively modest amount of food can provide the extra kilocalories. It is important to choose nutrient dense foods to supply the extra nutrients.

Table 3. Energy and Nutrient Needs During Pregnancy:

Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA)/DRI
Nutrient Non-Pregnant Pregnant
*Energy (kilocalories per day) adequate to maintain weight +300
*Protein (g) 50 60
Vitamin A (mcg RE) 800 800
*Vitamin D (mcg) 5 5
Vitamin E (mg) 8 10
Vitamin C (mg) 60 70
Thiamin (mg) 1.1 1.4
Riboflavin (mg) 1.1 1.4
Niacin (mg) 14 18
Vitamin B6 (mg) 1.3 1.9
Vitamin B12 (mg) 2.4 2.6
Folate (mcg) 400 600
*Calcium (mg) 1000 <19 yrs.=1300

19-50 yrs.=1000
*Phosphorus (mg) 700 <19 yrs.=1250

19-50 yrs.=700
Magnesium (mg) 310-320 <19 yrs.=400

19-50 yrs.=350-360
Iron (mg) 15 30
Zinc (mg) 12 15
Iodine (mcg) 150 175
Selenium (mcg) 55 65

From: Committee on Dietary Allowances. Food and Nutrition Board. Washington, D.C.: National Academy of Sciences, 1989, 1997, 1998.

*Note: Additional kilocalories, protein, vitamin D, calcium and phosphorus may be needed for adolescents during pregnancy. Consult your health care practitioner.

Disclaimer: This information is intended as a guide only.   This information is offered to you with the understanding that it not be interpreted as medical or professional advice.  All medical information needs to be carefully reviewed with your health care provider.