🍼 Pregnancy Calorie Calculator
Daily calories needed by trimester
Written by Albert Mateos · Founder & Editor
Last reviewed: May 2, 2026
How it works
Calculate your daily calorie needs during pregnancy by trimester. Based on your TDEE with the recommended additional calories: +0 in the first trimester, +340 in the second, and +450 in the third. Ensure you're eating enough for you and your baby.
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your pre-pregnancy weight, height, and age.
- Select your activity level.
- Enter your current trimester.
- Review your daily calorie target for healthy pregnancy.
Example
Inputs: 30-year-old, 65 kg, 165 cm, moderately active, second trimester
Result: ~2,500 kcal/day (2,160 baseline + 340 for T2)
What it means: In trimester 2, you need roughly 340 extra kcal/day on top of your baseline TDEE — the equivalent of a small snack.
Tips
- Trimester 1 typically needs no extra calories — nausea often reduces intake anyway.
- Trimester 2 adds ~340 kcal/day; trimester 3 adds ~450 kcal/day.
- Quality matters more than quantity — prioritize protein, iron, folate, and omega-3s.
- Don't 'eat for two' — that myth leads to excessive weight gain and gestational diabetes risk.
Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many extra calories do I need during pregnancy?
- Calorie needs increase gradually across trimesters. The first trimester requires little to no additional calories beyond your normal intake. The second trimester adds approximately 340 extra calories per day, and the third trimester adds about 450 extra calories per day. These are general guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
- Is it safe to diet or restrict calories during pregnancy?
- Calorie restriction during pregnancy is generally not recommended as it can deprive the developing baby of essential nutrients. Even women who are overweight before pregnancy are advised to gain some weight rather than actively lose it. Focus on nutrient-dense foods rather than calorie counting, and work with your healthcare provider to establish a healthy weight gain target.
- How does pre-pregnancy BMI affect calorie recommendations?
- Women who were underweight before pregnancy may need more calories and are advised to gain 28-40 pounds. Those with a normal BMI should aim for 25-35 pounds of gain. Women who were overweight are advised to gain 15-25 pounds, and those with obesity should gain 11-20 pounds. Calorie recommendations scale accordingly with these targets.