Pregnancy Nutritional Needs and Weight Gain

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Questions and Answers

What physiological changes occur during pregnancy?

  • Reduction in renal function
  • Increased secretion of thyroid hormones
  • Decreased heart rate and oxygen consumption
  • Changes in blood volume and metabolism (correct)

What is the primary source of energy recommended for a pregnant woman?

  • Complex carbohydrates and mono/polyunsaturated fats (correct)
  • Simple sugars and saturated fats
  • Processed snacks and sugary drinks
  • High amounts of red meat only

How much weight gain is typically recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy?

  • 5 to 10 lbs
  • 1 lb
  • 2 to 4 lbs (correct)
  • No weight gain is recommended

Which vitamins are primarily contributed by protein-rich foods?

<p>Calcium, iron, and B-vitamins (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of not meeting protein intake requirements during pregnancy?

<p>Stunted growth of maternal tissues and fetus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What weight gain is generally suggested for women carrying twins?

<p>35-40 lbs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should pregnant women avoid regarding weight management?

<p>Weight reduction (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the enhanced daily protein requirement for pregnant women compared to the average requirement?

<p>Increased by 25g/day (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Pregnancy Weight Gain Guidelines

Weight gain targets during pregnancy depend on pre-pregnancy nutritional status and BMI.

Increased Metabolic Demands (Pregnancy)

Pregnancy requires more energy for both the mother and developing fetus.

Protein Needs in Pregnancy

Protein requirements increase during pregnancy to support fetal growth, placental development, and maternal tissue growth.

Preferred Energy Sources (Pregnancy)

Complex carbohydrates, mono and polyunsaturated fats, and protein are the best fuel sources during pregnancy.

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First Trimester Weight Gain

Average weight gain in the first trimester is 2-4 pounds.

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Later Trimester Weight Gain

Average weight gain during the second and third trimesters is approximately 1 pound per week.

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Calcium's Role in Pregnancy

Calcium is crucial for the developing bones and teeth of the unborn child.

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Weight Reduction During Pregnancy

Weight reduction during pregnancy is not recommended.

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Study Notes

Pregnancy Adaptations and Nutritional Needs

  • Pregnancy significantly alters several bodily systems, including cardiovascular, respiratory, and gastrointestinal (GI) systems.
  • Increased metabolic demands during pregnancy necessitate adjustments in dietary habits.
  • Key changes during pregnancy encompass blood volume, heart rate, kidney function, metabolism, and respiratory function.
  • A pregnant woman's diet provides the essential nourishment for fetal growth and development.
  • The mother, fetus, and placenta work together (physiologic synergism) to support the developing life.
  • Weight gain recommendations depend on the mother's pre-pregnancy nutritional status and BMI.

Weight Gain During Pregnancy

  • Underweight women (BMI < 18.5) should aim for 15–28 pounds of weight gain during pregnancy.
  • Teenage mothers may gain approximately 35–40 pounds.
  • Women carrying twins might gain 35–40 pounds.
  • Triplet pregnancies can result in an overall gain of 50 pounds.
  • Weight loss is discouraged during pregnancy.

First Trimester Weight Gain

  • During the first trimester, average weight gain is 2–4 pounds.

Second and Third Trimester Weight Gain

  • Subsequent trimesters usually see a weekly weight gain of approximately 1 pound.

Nutritional Intake During Pregnancy

  • Dietary energy primarily fuels the increased metabolic demands of both the mother and the fetus.
  • Protein is crucial for tissue development, including fetal growth, placental development, maternal tissue growth, increased blood volume, and amniotic fluid formation.

Protein Requirements During Pregnancy

  • Daily protein needs increase by 25g, equating to 50% more than a non-pregnant woman's requirement.
  • Complete protein sources include milk, eggs, cheese, soy products, and meats.
  • Incomplete protein sources include legumes and grains.

Vitamins and Minerals Crucial During Pregnancy

  • Protein-rich foods contribute calcium, iron, and B-vitamins.
  • Calcium is vital for fetal bone and tooth development.
  • Calcium supplements might be necessary for mothers with low stores or multiple pregnancies.
  • Iron aids in hemoglobin production, fetal iron stores, and prevents preterm labor and low birth weights.
  • Increased iron intake can lead to black stools.
  • A balanced diet providing iron is preferable to supplements due to bioavailability concerns.
  • Vitamins A and C support tissue growth, and vitamin B plays a crucial role in pregnancy.

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