Reviewed by: Dr. Priyadatt Patel, Senior Gynecologist · Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon · IVF and Endometriosis Programme Lead. Last updated: 26 May 2026.
Antenatal · Nutrition
Nutrition in Pregnancy
Evidence-based nutritional guidance to support healthy maternal and fetal outcomes throughout pregnancy.
Caloric and nutrient needs
What changes in pregnancy
Energy needs increase by 340-450 kcal/day in the second and third trimesters. Protein, iron, calcium, folate, iodine, vitamin D, and DHA needs all increase. Total weight gain target depends on pre-pregnancy BMI.
Key supplements
What we recommend
- Folic acid 400 micrograms daily until 12 weeks (5 mg for high-risk)
- Iron 60-100 mg daily from second trimester (or earlier if anaemic)
- Calcium 1000-1300 mg daily
- Vitamin D 600 IU daily, more if deficient
- Iodine 200-220 micrograms daily
- DHA 200-300 mg daily preferred from omega-3-rich diet
Foods to avoid
Safety guidelines
Raw or undercooked meat/fish, unpasteurised dairy, high-mercury fish (king mackerel, shark, swordfish), excess caffeine (over 200mg daily), alcohol, and unwashed produce. Standard Indian diets are generally safe with appropriate cooking practices.
Common questions
Frequently asked
How much weight should I gain?
Depends on pre-pregnancy BMI. Normal BMI: 11-16 kg. Overweight: 7-11 kg. Underweight: 12-18 kg. Obese: 5-9 kg. Excessive or insufficient gain both carry risks.
Can I follow vegetarian or vegan diet during pregnancy?
Yes – with attention to protein, iron, B12, calcium, and DHA sources. Many Indian women have healthy pregnancies on vegetarian diets. Vegan pregnancies need B12 supplementation specifically.
Are there foods I should specifically eat more of?
Iron-rich foods (lentils, leafy greens, lean meats), calcium sources (dairy or fortified alternatives), omega-3 sources (fish, walnuts, flax), and a wide variety of colourful fruits and vegetables.
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Dr. Priyadatt Patel
Senior Gynecologist · Advanced Laparoscopic Surgeon · IVF and Endometriosis Programme Lead
MS OBGyn · Pregnancy Care · Advanced Gynaecological Ultrasound · Fertility Preservation
ESHRE / ESGE / AAGL / ASRM guideline-aligned practice. 3D Karl Storz precision technique. Fertility-preservation-first philosophy. Evidence-based decisions, honest counselling, long-term outcomes orientation.
Endometriosis
Superficial to deep infiltrating, fertility-preserving excision
IVF & Fertility
Individualised protocols, ART Level 2 lab, transparent outcomes
Advanced Laparoscopy
3D Karl Storz precision, nerve-sparing technique
Pregnancy Care
Antenatal care, high-risk pregnancy, advanced ultrasound
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