Maternity Nursing: Antepartum Q 26
Nutritional planning for a newly pregnant woman of average height and weighing 145 pounds should include:
A. A decrease of 200 calories a day.
B. An increase of 300 calories a day.
C. An increase of 500 calories a day.
D. A maintenance of her present caloric intake per day.
Correct Answer: B. An increase of 300 calories a day.
This is the recommended caloric increase for adult women to meet the increased metabolic demands of pregnancy. These calories should come from a balanced diet of protein, fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Sweets and fats should be kept to a minimum. A healthy, well-balanced diet can also help to reduce some pregnancy symptoms, such as nausea and constipation.
Option A: Whenever possible, eat complex carbohydrates and limit simple carbohydrates.
Option C: Protein needs increase considerably during pregnancy and peak during the third trimester. Add a protein-rich food to every meal and snack to ensure enough protein throughout the pregnancy.
Option D: Whole grains and legumes, such as dried peas and beans, and other healthy carbs like fruit and starchy vegetables should make regular appearances on the plate. They provide B vitamins and trace minerals, such as zinc selenium, and magnesium. Grains and legumes are full of nutrients, including iron and the various B vitamins: thiamin (vitamin B-1), riboflavin (vitamin B-2), folate, and niacin.