Diet during Pregnancy & Lactation Quiz

Weight Gain Recommendations

• Average weight gain during a normal pregnancy is about 25 to 35 pounds.
• Underweight women (BMI < 18.5) should aim to gain 28 to 40 pounds during pregnancy.
• Overweight women (BMI 25-29.9) are recommended to gain 15 to 25 pounds during pregnancy.

Sudden Weight Gain Indicators

• Sudden weight gain after the 20th week may indicate potential complications, such as gestational hypertension or preeclampsia.

Caloric Intake During Pregnancy

• No additional calorie intake is necessary during the first trimester for pregnant adults; balanced diet suffices.

Duration of Human Pregnancy

• The average duration of human pregnancy is approximately 40 weeks.

Protein Requirements

• Pregnant women over 25 years old need an increased protein requirement of about 25 grams per day above the standard recommended amount.
• Pregnant women need more iron, but there is no need for increased intake of carbohydrates during pregnancy.

Recommended Protein Sources

• High-quality protein sources such as lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, and legumes are recommended for pregnant women.

Pregnancy Complications

• Hyperemesis gravidarum is characterized by prolonged nausea and vomiting and may require hospitalization and parental nutrition for the mother.

Excessive Weight Gain Definition

• Excessive weight gain during pregnancy is defined as gaining more than the recommended limits based on BMI category.

Physiological Changes

• Relaxation of the cardiac sphincter and smooth muscles due to increased progesterone can lead to heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux during pregnancy.

Protein Requirements for Adolescents

• Pregnant adolescents require an increased protein intake of about 30 grams per day over their regular needs.