I backed off of low-carb when I was pregnant with Gem. But I didn't go back to huge bowlsful of pasta or mondo-bagels. I ate fewer than the recommended daily for breads (6-12 servings, I think), but I didn't cut it out completely. I think I averaged at 4-5 servings a day, mostly whole grains. Oatmeal and whole grain bread were my friends. You have to be very aware of folic acid, especially if you are an older mother as I was (see list of good sources below).
When I was keeping a log, I was usually around 2000-2500 calories a day, which is higher than the 1800 I aim for when trying to lose. I actually lost a little with that, as it's fewer than the 3000 or so needed to keep my body at this horrendous weight. But losing weight was NOT my aim. Eating healthily for my baby was. Because I was filling up on healthy foods, I didn't have room for the sugary crap.
I did focus much more on veggies and fruits and dairy. I didn't follow a specific plan, but I used the guidelines my doctor, midwife, and What to Eat when You're Expecting. I aimed for a vitamin C food (citrus, strawberries, sweet peppers) and a green veggie every day, and something with beta-carotene every other day (carrots, peaches, cantaloupe). I made sure to eat good protein or dairy with every meal. I tried to choose whole grains when I could. I cut way back on sugars and refined foods. And because I'm insulin resistant, I made sure to eat regularly, every couple hours, so my blood sugar was on an even keel. And I took a prenatal vitamin every day, even when I was just trying to get pregnant, to make sure I filled the gaps on the required nutrients.
Good sources of folic acid:
# Dark green, leafy vegetables
# Whole wheat bread
# Lightly cooked beans and peas
# Nuts and seeds
# Sprouts
# Oranges and grapefruits
# Liver and other organ meats
# Poultry
# Fortified breakfast cereals and enriched grain products
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