Estimate roughly how many calories and how much protein you need each day, adjusted for your trimester, activity level, and whether you're expecting twins.
Most guidelines suggest no extra calories in the first trimester, about 340 extra per day in the second trimester, and about 450 extra per day in the third — on top of your regular maintenance calories, which depend on your weight, height, age and activity level.
A commonly cited guideline adds about 25 grams of protein per day on top of the standard non-pregnant recommendation (roughly 0.8g per kg of body weight), supporting the baby's growth and increased maternal blood volume.
Generally yes — many providers suggest an additional several hundred calories and roughly another 25g of protein per day for a twin pregnancy compared to a singleton, though individual needs vary more with multiples. This is an area especially worth discussing directly with your OB or a dietitian.
Largely, yes — the extra calories needed even in the third trimester are closer to one healthy snack than an entire second meal. The bigger shift during pregnancy is usually in nutrient quality (iron, folate, calcium, protein) rather than doubling overall food intake.
No — treat this as a general starting estimate. Conditions like gestational diabetes, multiples, being underweight or overweight pre-pregnancy, or restricted diets all change the picture, and your OB, midwife or a registered dietitian can give you numbers tailored to your specific situation.