Pregnancy Adaptations

Pregnancy Adaptations

• Pregnancy significantly alters the cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal (GI) systems.
• Increased metabolic demands require dietary and other adaptations.
• Blood volume, heart rate, renal function, metabolism, and respiratory function all change during pregnancy.
• Maternal nutrition provides the nourishment needed for fetal growth and development.
• Physiological synergy involves collaboration between the mother, fetus, and placenta to support life.
• Weight gain during pregnancy depends on pre-pregnancy nutritional status and BMI.
• Underweight (BMI < 18.5) women need approximately 15 lbs.
• Teenage pregnancies require 35-40 lbs.
• Twin pregnancies need 35-40 lbs.
• Triplet pregnancies need approximately 50 lbs.
• Weight reduction during pregnancy is discouraged.
• Average first-trimester weight gain is 2-4 pounds.
• Subsequent trimester weight gain averages 1 lb per week.
• Energy from food fuels increased metabolic needs for mother and fetus, and supports tissue building.
• Complex carbohydrates, monosaturated and polyunsaturated fats, and protein are preferred energy sources.

Protein Needs During Pregnancy

• Protein is crucial for fetal and placental development, maternal tissue growth, and increased blood volume.
• Amniotic fluid creation also uses protein.
• Protein requirements increase by 25g/day or 50% more compared to a non-pregnant woman's needs.
• Protein-rich foods (milk, eggs, cheese, soy, meat) are complete protein sources.
• Incomplete protein sources include legumes and grains, which can be part of a balanced diet.

Mineral and Vitamin Needs During Pregnancy

• Calcium is vital for fetal bone and tooth development.
• Calcium supplements might be necessary if maternal stores are low or pregnancy involves more than one fetus.
• Iron supports hemoglobin synthesis and fetal iron stores.
• Iron supplementation is recommended, taken 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, with water or orange juice.
• Iron deficiency can lead to preterm delivery and low birth weight.
• A common side effect of iron supplements is black stools.
• Dietary iron is preferable as it has better bioavailability than supplemental iron.
• Vitamins A and C are needed for tissue growth.
• Vitamin B is necessary for various metabolic processes.