Nutrition in pregnant mothers

Question 1

Explain the need for enough protein during pregnancy and amino acid transport across the placentae

Answer 1

Fetal requirement for protein increase sharply through widway through pregnancy and peak towards the end

To meet high fetal demands for protein ,transporters in the syntrophoblast layer of the placental membrane move amino acid into the fetal side

Question 2

Describe the maternal requirement for carb and the use of glucose by fetus

Answer 2

Glucose serves as the main source of energy for the fetus .The use of glucose by the fetus and the high {} of glucose in the mothers blood ,promote the transport of glucose across the placenta .

As the fetus uses the mothers glucose , the mother has to breakdown her protein for gluconeogenesis

Question 3

Describe the transfer of fat to the fetus and the role of fatty acids for fetal development

Answer 3

Fatty acids , cholesterol and other lipophilic substances enter the syntrophoblast via specific receptors and are secreted into the fetal blood . The fetal brain requires docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for normal growth and development

Question 4

Explain how maternal weight status before pregnancy determines recommended weight gain during pregnancy

Answer 4

Optimal weight gain during pregnancy depends on maternal pre-pregnancy’s weight status.

All women gain weight during pregnancy’s to support the fetus growth including obese woman

• Normal weight - woman should gain 7/18 Kg
• Underweight =12.5/18 Kg
• Overweight =7/11 Kg .

Obese woman should gain 7 kg

Excessive weight gain increasees the chances of complications during birth

Question 5

Explain the adverse effects of maternal malnutrition on fetal growth and development

Answer 5

Insufficient energy or protein ,carbs and vit can impair fetal growth and development .Adverse fetal outcomes include growth retardation ,inadequate brain development and increased risks in adulthood

Question 6

Factors a woman should consider before providing extra energy for her fetus

Answer 6

1-*Diet that will provide 340 calories in the second trimester and 450 calories in the thirds trimester

• Vagens should require counselling and supplementation to avoid deficiencies
• No alcohol
• limit caffeine
• Increase fluid intake
• Use salt in moderations
• Craving for non food substances should be investigated