Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Infancy

Which nutrients does the RDA/AI increase during pregnancy?

carbohydrates

protein

iron (before lactation)

folate

zinc

iodine

Which nutrients does the
RDA/AI remain unchanged as compared to a healthy, non-pregnant individual within the same
age and gender group?

sodium

fat

calcium (body’s absorption of it just doubles)

Describe the negative impact of the following during pregnancy: caffeine, alcohol and smoking

Effects of caffeine consumption during pregnancy

caffeine travels through placenta and can affect fetal heart rate and breathing

Effects of alcohol consumption during pregnancy

can lead to fetal alcohol syndrome

intellectual disabilities

premature birth

physical malformations

miscarriages

Effects of smoking during pregnancy

miscarriages

premature birth

physical malformations

intellectual disabilities

Identify food-borne illnesses of greatest concern during pregnancy

listeria, salmonella, and ecoli

List specific foods typically
associated with each of these food-borne illnesses

deli meats, raw or soft-cooked eggs, raw fish and shellfish (like sushi), undercooked meat, unpasteurized milk and cheeses

What are the benefits of breast-feeding for the mother and for the infant?

helps mother lose weight

builds stronger bonds with their babies

decreases risk of breast and ovarian cancer

Saves money by not buying formula

Identify contraindications to breastfeeding in developed parts of the world

HIV, tuberculosis, herpes

Describe possible actions that could be taken to increase the global prevalence of breastfeeding of infants during the first 6 months of life

Limit formula marketing, maternity leave for 6 months, strengthen health systems to be more baby-friendly, and support mothers with group counseling and breast-feeding tips

How does the composition of breast milk differ from the composition of infant formula?

Breast milk has more kcals, less protein, more total fat, less iron, less vitamin A, less vitamin d, less folic acid, and certain nutrients that provide important immune function

What is colostrum?

First milk produced after birth, thinner consistency and slightly yellowish