The Skinny Pregnancy: When Putting on Weight Is Easier Said than Done

How You Can Tip the Scale

Are you having troubles gaining pregnancy weight? A good first step is to add 300 calories to your diet per day and aim for a daily total of 2,000 calories, says Kimball. Focus on nutrient-dense foods that give you the most bang for your buck and eat when your appetite is at its peak.

You can add 300 calories a day by incorporating the following into your diet:

• Three tablespoons of olive oil added to breads or vegetables
• One scoop of ice cream
• A peanut butter sandwich
• A large bowl of cereal with low-fat milk
• Three handfuls of nuts
• One bar of dark chocolate
• A serving of fruit cobbler
• Substitute three cups of juice for three cups of water
• Three slices of cheese
• One slice of quiche
• A cup of chili and beans
• Eight ounces of chocolate milk
• One avocado

Try to eat every two to three hours. "Keeping it small is helpful for those who get nauseated easily," suggests Kimball. Another easy way to add calories is to substitute higher-calorie beverages. If you tend to fill up quickly, eat carbs and proteins first, then have salad or vegetables. Replace light, diet, or low-fat foods with the regular equivalents (such as salad dressing, bread, mayo, sour cream, milk, cheese, yogurt, sweeteners, and soda).