Question 1

How many extra calories during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Per ACOG guidelines: 1st trimester: no extra calories needed. 2nd trimester: +340 kcal/day. 3rd trimester: +450 kcal/day. Breastfeeding: +500 kcal/day (exclusive, 0–6 months). The myth of 'eating for two' leads to excessive weight gain — you only need about 15–20% more calories, not double.

Question 2

Is ghee good during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

In moderation, yes. Ghee provides fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and is a traditional part of Indian pregnancy diets. 1–2 teaspoons per day is fine. Excessive ghee (3+ tablespoons) adds unnecessary calories and saturated fat. Focus on variety — include nuts, seeds, and fish oil for omega-3s too.

Question 3

Can I eat non-veg during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, well-cooked non-veg is safe and beneficial. Chicken, fish (low-mercury varieties like rohu, pomfret), and eggs are excellent sources of protein, iron, and DHA. Avoid raw/undercooked meat, high-mercury fish (shark, swordfish), and raw eggs. Cook all meat to safe internal temperatures.

Question 4

How much iron do pregnant Indian women need?

Accepted Answer

ICMR recommends 35 mg/day of iron during pregnancy (vs 21 mg for non-pregnant women). Indian women are particularly at risk of iron deficiency — over 50% of pregnant Indian women are anaemic. Iron-rich foods: jaggery, dates, halim seeds, bajra, ragi, spinach, and pomegranate. Take iron supplements as prescribed by your doctor.

Question 5

Can I drink chai during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, in moderation. Limit caffeine to under 200 mg/day (about 2 cups of chai). Excessive caffeine is linked to low birth weight and preterm delivery. Herbal teas like ginger tea can help with morning sickness, but avoid herbal teas with unknown safety profiles.

Question 6

What to eat during gestational diabetes?

Accepted Answer

Focus on complex carbs (whole grains, dal, vegetables) over simple carbs (sugar, maida, white rice). Eat smaller, more frequent meals. Include protein with every meal to slow glucose absorption. Limit fruit juice and sweets. Monitor blood sugar as advised by your doctor. This calculator adjusts recommendations if you select gestational diabetes.

Question 7

Is coconut water good during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Coconut water is safe and beneficial — it provides hydration, potassium, and electrolytes. It can help with morning sickness and prevent dehydration. 1–2 glasses per day is fine. Avoid coconut water with added sugar.

Question 8

How much weight should I gain during pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

Depends on pre-pregnancy BMI. Underweight (BMI <18.5): 12.5–18 kg. Normal (18.5–22.9): 11.5–16 kg. Overweight (23–27.4): 7–11.5 kg. Obese (>27.5): 5–9 kg. Most weight gain occurs in 2nd and 3rd trimesters. Sudden weight gain or loss should be reported to your doctor.

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