Protein Requirements

Complex new tissues are produced in pregnancy at a rate greater than at any other time during a woman's life. Protein is essential for this purpose, but during pregnancy protein requirements cannot be separated from needs for calories and other nutrients. As energy needs take first priority in metabolism during pregnancy, protein will be used for energy if carbohydrates and fat are not consumed in sufficient amounts. Conversely, increasing energy intake will improve utilization of protein. It is recommended that pregnant women consume an additional 10 grams of protein a day that is an extra 1½ ounce of meat, fish, poultry or in 2 cups of low-fat milk.