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Updated: May 14, 2026
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The 4-vessel Sampling Approach to Integrative Studies of Human Placental Physiology In Vivo
Published on: August 2, 2017
[Basal metabolism during pregnancy: a systematic review]
Enilce de Oliveira Fonseca Sally1, Luiz Antonio dos Anjos, Vivian Wahrlich
1Departamento de Nutrição Social, Faculdade de Nutrição Emília de Jesus Ferreiro, Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói, RJ, Brazil. eoliveirasally@gmail.com
Ciencia & Saude Coletiva
|January 30, 2013
Summary
Basal metabolic rate (BMR), a key part of energy expenditure, increases during pregnancy, particularly after the second trimester. Reliable data comes from cohort studies tracking women before and during gestation.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Human Metabolism
- Pregnancy Nutrition
Background:
- Gestational energy expenditure (EE) is crucial for nutritional guidance and weight management during pregnancy.
- Basal metabolic rate (BMR) constitutes the primary component of EE.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the changes in Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) during non-twin pregnancies in healthy women.
- To synthesize findings on BMR behavior throughout gestation.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of 37 studies (24 cohort, 13 cross-sectional) meeting inclusion criteria.
- Analysis of BMR changes in relation to gestational duration and maternal nutritional status.
Main Results:
- Most cohort studies reported BMR increases ranging from 8% to 35%, influenced by follow-up duration and nutritional status.
- Cross-sectional studies indicated BMR increases of 8%–28% near delivery compared to early pregnancy or postpartum.
- Significant limitations included lack of maternal age data, participant attrition, and short follow-up periods.
Conclusions:
- Basal metabolic rate (BMR) demonstrably increases during pregnancy, with heightened intensity observed after the second trimester.
- Cohort studies commencing before pregnancy offer the most robust data on BMR changes during gestation.
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