TRIMESTER-SPECIFIC NEEDS · Sub-section 3 of 3
Nutrition, by stage.
Calorie and nutrient needs change across pregnancy. Nausea in T1, gestational diabetes screening in T2, weight gain throughout, and special cases (vegetarian, food aversion, hyperemesis).
✓ Evidence stack: ACOG · ADA gestational diabetes guidelines · AAP · Mayo Clinic · Reviewed by Maureen Kelly, RN
Nutritional needs in pregnancy are not constant. The first trimester typically needs no extra calories but does need folate and iron. The second adds about 340 calories per day. The third adds about 450. Beyond calories: morning sickness, food aversions, gestational diabetes, weight gain ranges — this section walks through the trimester-specific picture.
The 8 articles in this section
When to Start Prenatal Vitamins: The Complete Pre- and Post-Conception Guide
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Gestational Diabetes Diet: What to Eat (and Avoid) for Blood Sugar Control
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Best Prenatal Vitamins: What the Research Actually Shows
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Pregnancy Weight Gain: How Much Is Normal and What to Expect
Read this article →
Morning Sickness Remedies That Actually Work: Evidence-Based Relief Strategies
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Morning Sickness Remedies That Actually Work: Evidence-Based Relief Strategies
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How to Sleep During Pregnancy: Positions, Tips, and What Actually Helps
Read this article →
First Trimester: What’s Really Happening Weeks 1-12
Read this article →
Reviewed by
Maureen Kelly, RN — 20+ years in L&D, postpartum, NICU, and women’s health.
Every article in this section is reviewed against current clinical guidelines and primary research. Meet Maureen →