Most pregnant women should gain how much weight?

The recommendation for most pregnant women to gain between 25 to 35 pounds comes from guidelines set by various health organizations, including the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. This weight gain is considered optimal for supporting the growth and development of the fetus, as well as providing the necessary energy reserves for the mother during and after pregnancy.

The amount of weight gain can vary based on the woman's pre-pregnancy weight. For instance, underweight women might be advised to gain more, while overweight women may need to gain less. However, the general average of 25 to 35 pounds is seen as the ideal range to ensure both maternal health and fetal development.

This range is also associated with a reduced risk of complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, and it can contribute to a healthier outcome for both the mother and the newborn. Thus, this answer reflects current medical understanding and practices concerning healthy weight gain during pregnancy.