Nutrition for Fertility Flashcards

Question

Which of the following supplements is recommended for improving insulin sensitivity and hormonal balance in women with PCOS? A) Vitamin B12 B) Inositol C) Vitamin A D) Vitamin C

Answer 1

Correct Answer: B) Inositol Why it’s correct: Inositol is a naturally occurring compound that improves insulin signaling and hormonal balance, particularly in PCOS. It has been shown to restore ovulation and regulate menstrual cycles, enhancing fertility. Why the other options are incorrect: A) Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 is vital for general health but does not have the same impact on insulin sensitivity or hormonal balance in PCOS. C) Vitamin A: Vitamin A is important for general health but does not specifically address insulin sensitivity in PCOS. D) Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant and has benefits for overall health, but it doesn't directly influence insulin sensitivity or hormonal balance in PCOS as inositol does.

Answer 2

**Correct Answer: C) Pelvic pain and heavy menstruation** Why it’s correct: Pelvic pain and heavy menstruation are hallmark symptoms of endometriosis. The condition often leads to scarring and inflammation that disrupts normal reproductive processes, making it harder for fertilization and implantation to occur. Why the other options are incorrect: A) Ovarian cysts: Ovarian cysts are often found in endometriosis, but pelvic pain and heavy menstruation are more directly linked to fertility challenges. B) Abnormal uterine lining: Endometriosis may lead to abnormalities in the uterine environment, but pelvic pain and heavy menstruation are more common and impactful symptoms affecting fertility. D) None of the above: Pelvic pain and heavy menstruation are both key symptoms affecting fertility.

Answer 3

**Correct Answer: C) CoQ10** Why it’s correct: Coenzyme Q10 is a potent antioxidant that supports energy production in cells, including sperm cells. It improves motility (the ability of sperm to move efficiently) and concentration by reducing oxidative stress. Why the other options are incorrect: A) Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant but is less effective than CoQ10 in improving sperm motility and concentration. B) Zinc: Zinc is important for sperm health, but it is not as directly linked to motility and concentration as CoQ10. D) Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant but is not as specific as CoQ10 for improving sperm motility and concentration.

Answer 4

Correct Answer: C) Folic acid Why it’s correct: Folic acid is essential for DNA synthesis and repair, which are critical in sperm production. Deficiency can lead to abnormal sperm parameters, including reduced count, motility, and morphology. Why the other options are incorrect: A) Vitamin A: While vitamin A is important for fertility, folic acid is more specifically linked to sperm quality. B) Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3s support general health but are not as directly linked to sperm health as folic acid. D) Vitamin D: Vitamin D supports fertility, but folic acid is a more direct influence on sperm parameters.

Answer 5

Correct Answer: C) Mediterranean Diet Why it’s correct: The Mediterranean diet is rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and anti-inflammatory nutrients, which improve egg quality, sperm health, and implantation rates. Studies show it enhances fertility outcomes, particularly in women undergoing ART. Why the other options are incorrect: A) Paleo Diet: While beneficial for overall health, it is not as well-established in improving fertility outcomes in ART as the Mediterranean diet. B) Ketogenic Diet: The ketogenic diet may have other benefits but is not typically linked to improved fertility outcomes in ART. D) Low-carb Diet: Low-carb diets may support general health but are not specifically associated with fertility improvements in ART like the Mediterranean diet.

Answer 6

Correct Answer: B) Magnesium Why it’s correct: Magnesium plays a vital role in glucose metabolism and insulin signaling. Deficiency can worsen insulin resistance, a core feature of PCOS, exacerbating symptoms like irregular cycles and anovulation. Why the other options are incorrect: A) Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant but does not have the same direct role in insulin resistance and PCOS management as magnesium. C) Zinc: Zinc supports immune function but is not as directly linked to insulin resistance in PCOS as magnesium. D) Vitamin K: Vitamin K is important for blood clotting but does not have a strong connection to insulin resistance in PCOS.

Answer 7

Correct Answer: B) Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) Why it’s correct: CoQ10 improves mitochondrial function and energy production, which are critical for egg quality and ovarian function. In older women, CoQ10 supplementation helps counteract age-related declines in egg health. Why the other options are incorrect: A) L-Arginine: L-Arginine supports circulation but does not specifically improve ovarian function in older women. C) Folic acid: Folic acid is important for fertility, but CoQ10 is more directly linked to improving ovarian function. D) Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s are beneficial for fertility in general, but CoQ10 is more specifically linked to improving ovarian function in older women.

Answer 8

Correct Answer: D) All of the above Reducing stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact hormone balance and ovulation. Minimizing exposure to environmental toxins: Toxins like BPA and phthalates are linked to poor egg and sperm quality. Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight or underweight disrupts hormonal balance, affecting ovulation and sperm parameters. Why the other options are incorrect: A) Reducing stress: Stress management is important but not the only lifestyle change. B) Minimizing exposure to environmental toxins: This is also important but should be combined with other lifestyle changes. C) Maintaining a healthy weight: Weight management is important, but the best results are achieved with a combination of all lifestyle factors.

Answer 9

Correct Answer: A) CoQ10 Why it’s correct: CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that protects eggs from oxidative stress, which increases with age. It supports mitochondrial function, essential for egg development and quality. Why the other options are incorrect: B) Vitamin D: Vitamin D supports overall reproductive health but is not as directly linked to reducing oxidative damage in older women. C) Zinc: Zinc supports egg health, but CoQ10 is more specifically linked to reducing oxidative stress in eggs. D) Iron: Iron is important for overall health but is not as effective as CoQ10 in reducing oxidative damage to eggs.

Answer 10

Correct Answer: D) All of the above Zinc deficiency: Zinc is crucial for sperm production and hormone regulation. Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol damages sperm DNA and reduces testosterone levels. Smoking: Smoking increases oxidative stress and damages sperm quality. All these factors are linked to poor sperm health, so "All of the above" is the correct answer. Why the other options are incorrect: A) Zinc deficiency: Zinc is important for sperm health, but it is only one factor. B) Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol impacts sperm health but does not address all factors. C) Smoking: Smoking affects sperm quality, but again, it’s just one factor; all of the above are collectively important.

Answer 11

Correct Answer: D) All of the above Omega-3 fatty acids: These reduce inflammation by producing anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. Magnesium: Magnesium reduces muscle cramping and supports relaxation, easing pain. Curcumin: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is a potent anti-inflammatory agent that directly targets inflammatory pathways. The combination of all three provides the best support for inflammation associated with endometriosis. Why the other options are incorrect: A) Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3s help with inflammation, but they are more effective when combined with magnesium and curcumin. B) Magnesium: Magnesium helps with muscle relaxation but is more effective when paired with omega-3s and curcumin. C) Curcumin: Curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties but works best when combined with omega-3s and magnesium.

Answer 12

**Correct Answer: b) It can lead to protein and iron deficiencies. Why it happens: Vegetarian diets may lack bioavailable iron (heme iron from animal sources is better absorbed than non-heme iron from plants) and protein-rich animal products. If poorly planned, such diets can fail to meet increased pregnancy demands. Iron and protein are critical for fetal and maternal health.** Correction: Increase consumption of eggs and cheese and plant proteins to meet protein needs. Why the other options are incorrect: a) A vegetarian diet does not inherently increase gestational diabetes risk. In fact, plant-based diets may improve glucose metabolism. c) Calcium is a concern in vegan diets (which exclude dairy) but is not a major issue for vegetarians who consume milk and cheese. d) Vitamin D toxicity is unrelated to vegetarian diets and typically occurs due to excessive supplementation.

Answer 13

Correct Answer: b) Why it is correct: High mercury levels in fish like swordfish and shark are neurotoxic and can harm fetal brain development. Why others are incorrect: a) Omega-3s are beneficial, but the concern with high-mercury fish is not their omega-3 content. c) Mercury exposure does not directly lead to hypertension. d) Mercury does not primarily cause preterm birth. **Avoid high-mercury fish:** * Orange roughy. * King mackerel. * Shark. * Swordfish. **Safe Seafood Recommendations:** * Consume seafood low in mercury, such as: * Shrimp. * Canned light tuna. * Salmon. * Pollock. * Catfish. * Suggested intake: 4 to 12 ounces per week, depending on the type of fish. **Self-Caught Fish:** * Check for local fish advisories. * If no advisory exists, limit to 4 ounces and avoid other fish that week. **Alternative Omega-3 Sources Plant-based foods:** * Flaxseed. * Broccoli. * Cantaloupe. * Kidney beans. * Spinach. * Cauliflower. * Walnuts.

Answer 14

**c) Fetal Teratogenic Abnormalities. Associated Nutrient: Vitamin A: Excessive intake (over 3,000 mcg RAE/day or 10,000IU) can be teratogenic, causing congenital abnormalities such as: Craniofacial defects (e.g., cleft palate). Cardiac abnormalities. Neural abnormalities. Sources: Risk is primarily associated with retinoid forms of vitamin A (e.g., in supplements and animal liver). Plant-based beta-carotene sources are not linked to teratogenic risks.** **Why others are wrong:** a) Preeclampsia Associated Nutrients: Calcium: Adequate intake (1,000–1,300 mg/day) helps reduce the risk of pregnancy-related hypertension and preeclampsia. Magnesium: Supports blood pressure regulation and may play a role in preventing hypertension in pregnancy. Vitamin D: Low levels have been associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia, though research is ongoing. Risk of Deficiency: Deficiency in these nutrients may lead to increased susceptibility to hypertension and preeclampsia. b) Neural Tube Defects (NTDs) Associated Nutrient: Folic Acid: Deficiency in folic acid (less than 400 mcg/day) is the primary cause of NTDs like spina bifida and anencephaly. Risk of Excess: High folic acid intake does not cause NTDs but should not exceed 1,000 mcg/day unless prescribed for specific conditions, as excess supplementation could mask vitamin B12 deficiency. d) Gestational Diabetes Associated Nutrients: Magnesium: Low levels may contribute to insulin resistance and poor glucose metabolism. Vitamin D: Deficiency has been linked to impaired glucose tolerance and increased risk of gestational diabetes. Chromium: Plays a role in carbohydrate metabolism; inadequate levels may impair glucose regulation. Risk of Deficiency: Insufficient levels of these nutrients could contribute to glucose intolerance, increasing the risk of gestational diabetes.

Answer 15

Correct Answer: c) Why it is correct: Omega-3s, particularly DHA, are essential for fetal brain and neurodevelopment. Why others are incorrect: a) Neural tube defects are prevented by folic acid. Recommended Dose for folic acid 400-800mcg. Adequate folic acid intake can prevent 50%–70% of NTDs. Most individuals do not consume enough folic acid through diet alone. b) Calcium absorption is promoted by vitamin D, not omega-3s. d) Omega-3s do not directly reduce gestational hypertension risk.

Answer 16

**Correct Answer: c)Folic acid prevents NTDs like spina bifida and anencephaly, particularly in the first four weeks of embryonic development.** Why others are incorrect: a) Iron supports supports increased maternal blood volume and prevents anemia but does not prevent NTDs. Conditions from Iron deficiency in pregnancy: Maternal anemia, leading to fatigue, weakness, and increased risk of preterm birth. Low birth weight or impaired fetal growth due to reduced oxygen delivery. b) Calcium is crucial for skeletal development, not neural tube closure. Benefits in pregnancy: Essential for fetal bone and tooth development. Helps maintain maternal bone density by preventing calcium leaching from maternal bones. Reduces the risk of pregnancy-related hypertension and preeclampsia. Conditions from deficiency: Maternal bone loss due to calcium mobilization to the fetus. Impaired skeletal development in the fetus d) Omega-3s aid neurodevelopment but are not directly involved in NTD prevention. Benefits in pregnancy: Supports fetal brain and eye development, particularly during the third trimester. May reduce the risk of preterm birth and support maternal mental health. Conditions from deficiency: Suboptimal neurodevelopment (e.g., cognitive and visual delays). Potential increased risk of preterm birth or low birth weight. Recommended intake: Pregnant women: 200–300 mg/day of DHA (a type of omega-3). Found in fatty fish (e.g., salmon, sardines), walnuts, flaxseeds, and algae-based supplements. Other nutrients to note Vitamin D: * Promotes calcium absorption and supports bone health. 5. Iodine: * Prevents developmental delays due to thyroid dysfunction. 6. Choline: * Essential for brain and nervous system development.

Answer 17

Correct Answer: c) 4–5 mg/day Why It Is Correct: Women on antiepileptic medications (e.g., valproate or carbamazepine) are at higher risk of having a child with NTDs due to the medications interfering with folate metabolism. To mitigate this risk, they require a higher dose of folic acid (4–5 mg/day) starting at least 1 month before conception and continuing through the first trimester. The neural tube typically closes by the end of the fourth week of pregnancy (around day 28 of gestation). However, continuing folic acid supplementation throughout the first trimester is crucial for a few reasons: Neural Tube Completion: While the neural tube should be fully formed by the end of week 4, folic acid is still essential for supporting early brain and spinal cord development during the first trimester. Ongoing Folate Needs: Rapid cell division and DNA synthesis continue throughout the first trimester as the fetus develops, and folate plays a key role in these processes. Higher Risk Factors: For individuals on antiepileptic medication, maintaining adequate folate levels is vital to offset any ongoing interference with folate metabolism during this critical period of fetal organogenesis. By the second trimester, folic acid remains important but at standard doses, as the primary risk for neural tube defects has passed. Why Others Are Incorrect: a) 400–800 mcg/day: This is the standard recommended dose for women with no risk factors, not sufficient for those on antiepileptic medication. b) 1 mg/day: Higher than the standard dose but still inadequate for women at higher risk due to antiepileptic medication. d) 10 mg/day: Exceeds the recommended amount and may lead to side effects without additional benefit in preventing NTDs.

Answer 18

Correct Answer: b) Aspartame Why it is correct: Aspartame contains phenylalanine, which can accumulate to toxic levels in individuals with PKU, causing neurological complications in the fetus. Why others are incorrect: a) Sucralose: Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. c) Acesulfame-K: No specific contraindications in PKU patients. d) Rebaudioside A: A derivative of stevia, considered safe during pregnancy.

Answer 19

**Correct Answer: b) Craniofacial abnormalities and cardiac defects** Why it is correct: Alcohol is a potent teratogen, causing craniofacial abnormalities (e.g., smooth philtrum, thin upper lip) and cardiac defects, hallmarks of fetal alcohol syndrome. Why others are incorrect: a) Neural tube defects: These are linked to folic acid deficiency, not alcohol. c) Limb malformations: While possible, these are less characteristic of fetal alcohol exposure. d) Polycystic kidney disease: This is a genetic condition unrelated to teratogenic factors like alcohol.

Answer 20

Correct Answer: C. Eat small, frequent meals and prioritize protein-rich snacks. Explanation: A. Incorrect: Large meals can exacerbate nausea by overloading the digestive system. B. Incorrect: While protein is emphasized, carbohydrates (preferably complex) can help alleviate nausea. C. Correct: Frequent small meals stabilize blood sugar, and protein is more effective than carbohydrates for long-term relief of NVP. D. Incorrect: 2 liters of fluids are recommended, but this should be adjusted if vomiting occurs to avoid overhydration.

Answer 21

Correct Answer: A. Avoid lying down immediately after meals. Explanation: A. Correct: Remaining upright for 3 hours post-meal helps prevent reflux. B. Incorrect: High-fat meals delay gastric emptying and worsen GERD. C. Incorrect: Aluminum-containing antacids can have harmful side effects and are not recommended. D. Incorrect: Carbonated beverages lower esophageal sphincter tone and aggravate GERD.

Answer 22

**Correct Answer: C. 452 kcal/day Explanations: C. 452 kcal/day: Correct. The third trimester requires 452 kcal/day to support rapid fetal growth.** A. 200 kcal/day: Incorrect. This value is lower than the recommended caloric intake. B. 340 kcal/day: Incorrect. This is the recommended increase for the second trimester. D. 500 kcal/day: Incorrect. While close, it exceeds the specific recommendation.

Answer 23

Correct Answer: C. Calcium Explanations:C. Calcium: Correct. Calcium is vital for fetal skeletal development, particularly in the third trimester when deposition peaks. A. Magnesium: Incorrect. Magnesium plays a role in muscle and nerve function but is not specifically linked to skeletal development. B. Potassium: Incorrect. Potassium is essential for blood pressure regulation, not skeletal development. D. Zinc: Incorrect. Zinc supports cell growth and immune function but is not directly involved in skeletal development.

Answer 24

**Correct Answer: C. It can lead to methylmercury toxicity. Explanations: C. It can lead to methylmercury toxicity: Correct. Certain fish species contain methylmercury, which can harm fetal development. High levels of mercury in some fish can harm fetal development ** A. It is high in saturated fats: Incorrect. Fish generally contains healthy fats, not saturated fats. B. It may cause iron overload: Incorrect. Fish is not a primary contributor to iron overload. D. It contains insufficient protein: Incorrect. Fish is a rich source of protein and amino acids.

Answer 25

**Correct Answer: C) To support growth and remodeling of fetal and maternal tissues Explanation: Protein supports the growth of the fetus, placenta, uterus, breasts, and expanded maternal blood volume.** Incorrect answers: A) While protein indirectly supports brain development, it isn’t the sole focus. B) Protein is not primarily stored as fat during pregnancy. D) Carbohydrates and fats are the primary energy sources, not protein.

Answer 26

**Correct Answer: B) Meat, eggs, and milk Explanation: Animal-based proteins provide essential amino acids in the most bioavailable forms. Dairy is also an excellent source of calcium, which is vital during pregnancy.** Incorrect answers: A) Whole grains are good for fiber and some proteins but not complete proteins. C) Citrus fruits and leafy greens are better sources of vitamins and minerals, like vitamin C and folic acid. D) Seaweed and iodized salt are sources of iodine, not protein.

Answer 27

Correct Answer: B) Strict vegetarians or vegans Explanation: Vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal products. Vegans and vegetarians may require supplements to avoid deficiency, which can increase the risk of neural tube defects. Incorrect answers: A) Sun exposure is unrelated to B12. C) and D) don’t inherently affect B12 levels unless diets lack diversity.

Answer 28

**C) 0.4 mg folic acid and 27 mg iron: Correct. These are the standard recommended doses to prevent neural tube defects and anemia during pregnancy.** A) 0.4 mg folic acid and 14 mg iron: Incorrect. The folic acid dose is correct, but the iron amount is insufficient. Pregnancy requires 27 mg/day to meet increased oxygen transport demands. B) 1 mg folic acid and 27 mg iron: Incorrect. The iron dose is correct, but 1 mg of folic acid is higher than typically recommended unless there’s a history of neural tube defects. D) 1 mg folic acid and 40 mg iron: Incorrect. Both doses are excessive for general pregnancy needs, though they may be used in special cases (e.g., prior neural tube defects or iron-deficiency anemia).

Answer 29

**C) 1,000 mg calcium and 600 IU vitamin D: Correct. These are the established daily requirements to support fetal skeletal development and maternal bone health.** A) 500 mg calcium and 400 IU vitamin D: Incorrect. Calcium intake is far too low, though the vitamin D amount was once standard; it is now outdated. B) 800 mg calcium and 600 IU vitamin D: Incorrect. The vitamin D dose is correct, but calcium intake still falls short of the recommended 1,000–1,300 mg/day. D) 1,500 mg calcium and 1,000 IU vitamin D: Incorrect. These doses exceed what is typically recommended for pregnancy, though they might be considered safe in special circumstances (e.g., osteoporosis or severe deficiency).

Answer 30

**C) 300 mg DHA and 220 mcg iodine: Correct. This combination is supported by guidelines to optimize fetal brain and eye development while meeting iodine demands.** A) 300 mg DHA and 150 mcg iodine: Incorrect. The DHA is adequate, but the iodine dose is too low to meet increased fetal demands. B) 500 mg DHA and 120 mcg iodine: Incorrect. While 500 mg DHA is beneficial, 120 mcg iodine is insufficient for pregnancy. D) 500 mg DHA and 220 mcg iodine: Incorrect. Although safe, 500 mg DHA exceeds the typically recommended amount (300 mg).

Answer 31

**B) 60–70 g protein and 11 mg zinc: Correct. These amounts align with the recommended intake to support maternal and fetal health.** A) 50 g protein and 8 mg zinc: Incorrect. Protein and zinc levels are too low to meet the increased demands of pregnancy. C) 75–85 g protein and 15 mg zinc: Incorrect. While not harmful, these amounts exceed standard recommendations for most pregnant women. D) 90–100 g protein and 18 mg zinc: Incorrect. Both protein and zinc levels are significantly higher than needed unless there are special circumstances like multiple pregnancies.

Answer 32

**B) 5,000 IU: Correct. This level is safe and avoids the teratogenic risks associated with higher intakes.** A) 1,000 IU: Incorrect. This is far below the daily requirements for vitamin A during pregnancy. C) 10,000 IU: Incorrect. Exceeding 10,000 IU increases the risk of congenital malformations. D) 15,000 IU: Incorrect. This amount is well above the safe upper limit and is strongly associated with toxicity.

Answer 33

**B) 3 liters – Correct. Pregnant individuals should consume at least 3 liters (10–12 cups) per day to prevent dehydration and maintain amniotic fluid levels.** A) 2 liters – Incorrect. This is the general recommendation for adults but is insufficient for pregnancy. C) 4 liters – Incorrect. While some may need more, 4 liters is beyond the standard recommendation. D) 5 liters – Incorrect. This amount is excessive and could lead to water intoxication.

Answer 34

**B) Mediterranean diet – Correct. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, and vitamin D-containing foods is associated with lower atopic disease rates.** A) Vegan diet – Incorrect. While plant-based diets have benefits, there is no strong evidence linking vegan diets to lower atopic disease risk. C) High-protein, low-carb diet – Incorrect. There is no evidence supporting this diet for reducing atopic disease risk. D) Low-fat diet – Incorrect. Healthy fats, including omega-3s, are essential for fetal development and immune function.