NU321 (Exam 1): Maternal & Fetal Nutrition

how much folic acid do women of childbearing age need daily? why?

0.4 mg or 400 mcg

- to prevent neural tube defects

- must be done before the woman even knows she is pregnant because the neural tube begins to close in the first month

what can inadequate weight gain during pregnancy cause?

IUGR (intrauterine growth restriction)

what are severely underweight pregnant women more at risk for?

preterm birth and LBW (low birth weight)

what does obesity before or during pregnancy increase the risk for?

- macrosomia (baby larger than average)

- fetopelvic disproportion (mismatch between baby size and pelvic size)

- operative birth (delivery requiring surgical intervention, like cesarean)

- postpartum hemorrhage (excessive bleeding after childbirth)

- wound

- genital tract, or urinary tract infection

- birth trauma

- late fetal death

- preeclampsia (pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure)

- gestational diabetes (diabetes that develops during pregnancy)

what can a gain of 3+ kg in a month after the 20th week indicate?

development of preeclampsia

Weight Gain Pattern

Should be consistent throughout pregnancy.

Preterm Birth

Birth occurring before 37 weeks of gestation.

Dieting in Pregnancy

Should never restrict calories during pregnancy.

- change eating habits to healthier foods for appropriate weight gain

Nutrient-Rich Foods

Focus on quality over quantity in weight gain.

Protein Sources

Includes milk, meat, eggs, and cheese.

- watch for mercury levels in fish

why do we not recommend protein supplements during pregnancy?

increased incidence of preterm births

Fluid Intake

Recommended 8-10 glasses daily.

what does dehydration increase the risk of in pregnancy?

cramping, contractions, preterm labor

Caffeine Limit

Exceeding 200 mg may risk miscarriage and IUGR

Artificial Sweeteners

FDA approved for use during pregnancy.

what should be avoided by moms with PKU?

aspartame

physiologic anemia

occurs when the relative excess of plasma causes a modest decrease in the hemoglobin concentration and hematocrit. Normal adaptation during pregnancy

what is the iron supplement recommendation?

30 mg ferrous sulfate daily starting by 12 weeks gestation

calcium intake recommendation

1300 mg for all women <19 years

1000 mg for all women 19-50 years

- milk, cheese, yogurt, sardines, some green leafy vegetables

vitamin A foods

liver and dark green leafy vegetables

vitamin D foods

fortified milk, fortified cereal, salmon, tuna, liver

vitamin E foods

vegetable oil, green leafy vegetables, whole grains, liver, cheese, fish

how much folic acid daily in pregnant women?

600 mg

Pica

Craving and consuming nonfood substances.

Adolescent Pregnancy Needs

Increased calories needed for own development also

foods to avoid during pregnancy

- deli meat (unless cooked to steaming)

- raw meat

- fish with mercury (mackerel, tuna, swordfish)

- raw shellfish

- raw eggs

- soft cheeses (brie, feta)

- unpasteurized milk

- pate/liver

- caffeine (limit)

- alcohol

- unwashed vegetables

Physical activity during pregnancy

- moderate exercise beneficial

- stay hydrated

- be cautious of positioning (don't lay flat on back)

Lactation nutrition

Similar to pregnancy; increase fluids; continue prenatal vitamins