Weight Gain in Pregnancy
A healthy weight gain during pregnancy is usually between 5 to 18 kilograms (11 to 40 pounds). For women carrying twins, weight gain is usually between 11 to 25 kilograms (25 to 54 pounds). How much weight to gain depends on what your weight was before you became pregnant. Women who have a Body Mass Index (BMI) under 18.5 will need to gain more and women with a BMI over 25 will need to gain less to have a healthy pregnancy.
To find out how much weight to gain during pregnancy,
based on your BMI before you were pregnant, click here.
Weight gain should be minimal in the first trimester (0.5 to 2 kilograms or 1.1 to 4.4 pounds). If you lose or gain a significant amount of weight in the first trimester (i.e. more than 5 to 10 % of your pre‑pregnancy weight), talk with your health care provider for support.
Weight gain should be steady and gradual in the second and third trimesters. The average weight gain is around 0.2 to 0.5 kilograms/week or 0.5‑1.0 pound/week. If you are gaining more, see the guidelines in Eating Well with Canada’s Food Guide and compare your eating habits. You can also check out Health Canada’s webpage on following the Food Guide during pregnancy and breastfeeding
Typical pregnancy, weight gain approximately 14 kg (30 lb.)
To use the Healthy Weight Gain calculator, click here!
Pregnancy is a time to eat “twice as healthy,” not “twice as much.” Plan your meals, and choose healthier foods, like vegetables and fruit rich in color and high in fibre. For more information about healthy food choices during pregnancy, click here.
An active lifestyle during pregnancy is also important for a healthy weight gain during pregnancy. Check with your health care provider about being active during pregnancy. For more information about physical activity during pregnancy, click here.
Weight loss and dieting is not recommended in pregnancy. Focus on healthy eating and healthy foods, not your weight. For more information about healthy weight gain during pregnancy, talk with your health care provider or registered dietitian. You can also call HealthLink BC at 8‑1‑1 to speak with a registered dietitian.
