Calories During Pregnancy

staceybr01

DISCLAIMER: I am looking for input from people who are certified nutritionists, or people who have had this conversation with their doctor. I will OBVIOUSLY ask my personal physicial when I meet with him, however, that appointment is not for another week and a half. So please, no comments on how I should seek medical advice.

QUESTION: I am newly pregnany (6 weeks) and am curious as to bout how much I should be eating.

MFP had my goal (pre-preganancy) at 1500 calories (goal of losing 1 lb per week). If I set it to "maintain current weight", it puts my goal up to 1800 calories. However, my research suggest eating 200-300 calories MORE than usual when pregnant. Does that mean I should be eating 2100 calories?!

I am already slightly overweight, so I believe that I would be clasified as someone who should only gain 15-25 lbs. (I am 5'6, weigh 155).

It might sound funny, but I am having a REALLY hard time eating 1800 calories. I feel like I am shoving food down my throat all of the time. I am struggling between whether I should be force feeding myself even when I am not hungry (in order to hit that 1800) or if I should just do what feels natural (being confident that as I get further along, I will be more hungry)

Side note - I have a history of not eating enough (I am one of those annoying people who forgets to eat), so my body is used to not eating a whole lot and not being hungry, which is one of the reasons I signed up for MFP in the first place....

I want to be sure that I am providing appropriate nutrition for my baby, but don't want to be eating unneccesary calories either....

Thank you!!!!

mmsilvia

I am not a certified nutritionist but, I am a new mom. When I was pregnant I actually stopped dieting (per my dr's orders). I didn't want to deprive my baby of anything. As it turned out I lost weight during my pregnancy. I ate five balanced mini meals & walked 3 - 5 times a week. I craved Milk, Fruits & Veggies...your body will crave what it needs for the baby. Remember to drink lots of water.

I would follow your doctors orders during your pregancy as only you & your doctor know whats best for you.

Most of all enjoy your pregnancy ~ it truly is the miracle of life

staceybr01

Thank you. I know that I shouldn't be dieting, that is why I want to make sure I am eating correctly. I just don't know what that means!