Chapter 15: Pregnancy Nutrition

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What is the primary function of the placenta during pregnancy?

Developing the fetal nervous system
Producing red blood cells for the fetus
Regulating maternal hormone levels
Facilitating nutrient and waste exchange between mother and fetus (correct)

At how many weeks into pregnancy does the fetus typically develop a beating heart and a complete nervous system?

10-12 weeks
20-22 weeks
5-6 weeks (correct)
15-16 weeks

What does the neural tube ultimately develop into in the developing fetus?

Umbilical cord
Placenta
Respiratory system
Brain and spinal cord (correct)

When is the intake of folate most effective in reducing birth defects?

1st trimester (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the best indicator of an infant's overall health status?

Birth weight (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum recommended weight gain for a pregnant woman classified as obese?

20-25 pounds (D) Signup and view all the answers

How many extra calories per day are typically needed during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy?

500 calories (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which two nutrients exhibit increased absorption rates during pregnancy due to higher demands?

Iron and Folic Acid (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of taking folate during pregnancy?

To decrease the risk of birth defects (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does the placenta contribute to pregnancy?

Supplying nutrients and oxygen to the fetus (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the critical period in pregnancy referring to?

A time of rapid fetal development where teratogens can cause birth defects (B) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important for a pregnant woman to gain weight within healthy ranges?

To support maternal and fetal health (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which nutrient plays a crucial role in red blood cell synthesis and requires higher amounts during pregnancy?

Iron (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of alcohol consumption during pregnancy on the developing fetus?

It can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended approach to consuming alcohol during pregnancy according to the Surgeon General?

No alcohol consumption is safe during pregnancy (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does nutritional inadequacy affect milk production in lactating women?

'Dries up' milk production completely (D) Signup and view all the answers

Placenta's function

The placenta acts as a bridge between the mother and fetus, allowing essential nutrients and oxygen to reach the developing baby while removing waste products.

Fetal heart and nervous system development

During the 5th to 6th week of pregnancy, the fetus starts developing a beating heart and a complete nervous system, marking a crucial milestone in development.

Neural Tube's role

The neural tube, a structure formed early in development, eventually gives rise to the brain and spinal cord, the central components of the nervous system.

Folate's impact during pregnancy

Taking folate during the first trimester of pregnancy is highly effective in decreasing the chance of birth defects related to neural tube development.