Once you start thinking about having a baby, you should start thinking about what you eat. Any expectant mother will want first and foremost to optimize her health and that of her growing baby. Proper nutrition during pregnancy is an important aspect to that effort.

While there are many factors that affect weight gain during pregnancy your nutrition is a major key to having a healthy pregnancy and baby.

For instance did you know that pregnant women only need about 300 extra calories per day in order to maintain healthy nutrition throughout their pregnancy? Eating much more then 300 calories a day extra will lead to excess weight gain, which is not healthy for you or your unborn baby. Have you ever wondered why the average weight gain during pregnancy is between 25 and 35 pounds when newborns usually weigh on average 7.5 lbs?

• 7.5 pounds: average baby’s weight
• 7 pounds: extra stored protein, fat, and other nutrients
• 4 pounds: extra blood
• 4 pounds: other extra body fluids
• 2 pounds: breast enlargement
• 2 pounds: enlargement of your uterus
• 2 pounds: amniotic fluid surrounding your baby
• 1.5 pounds: the placenta

Of course this varies from pregnant women to pregnant women and from pregnancy to pregnancy, these are only averages. Normally if you are under weight you will need to gain more weight during your pregnancy and if you are overweight you will need to gain less then the average. Keep in mind that the extra calories you take in should not be empty calories but rather a variety of food that are rich in vitamins and minerals, learn the five food groups and balance your meals.

Naturally, any pregnant woman should consult her physician as early as possible during pregnancy to address dietary changes. He or she will need an accurate estimate of current diet and can supply science-based advice about proper nutrition. There are more wives tales and myths about nutrition during pregnancy than any other area. For objective information on your health and that of your growing baby check you’re your doctor and don’t forget to get your copy of our ebook Nutrtion During Pregnancy.