Timing and magnitude of changes in basal energy expenditure during pregnancy in Indian women.

Basal energy expenditure (BEE) was determined in 291 pregnant women, age 20-35 years, using Benedict Roth Metabolism Apparatus. A control study was undertaken in 38 non pregnant women during both follicular and luteal phases of menstrual cycle respectively. The mean +/- SD of BEE were found to be 34.04 +/- 3.05, 35.85 +/- 2.60 and 39.69 +/- 2.75 Kcal/m2/hr during first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy respectively. BEE was progressively and significantly increased (P < 0.01). However, increase in BEE during first trimester of pregnancy compared to that of luteal phase of menstrual cycle was insignificant. The results indicate that Indian pregnant women should maintain energy requirements by increasing caloric intake throughout the gestation.