Pregnancy 4 Flashcards
What are the key goals of Canadian recommendations for nutrition during pregnancy?
To meet fetal and maternal nutrient needs for optimal health by focusing on nutrient-dense foods to address increased energy, protein, and micronutrient requirements.
What are the 7 key prenatal nutrition recommendations in Canada?
Eat a variety of healthy foods daily.
Choose healthy fats over saturated fats.
Select fish low in mercury.
Eat slightly more food than usual.
Make water the primary drink of choice.
Limit caffeine intake.
Emphasize eating culturally appropriate, enjoyable meals.
Why is nutrient density emphasized in pregnancy nutrition?
Because energy requirements increase moderately, but micronutrient needs increase by up to 50%, requiring foods that provide more nutrients per calorie.
Why are iron and folic acid supplements recommended during pregnancy?
Iron: To prevent anemia and support increased maternal blood volume and fetal growth, as dietary iron is often insufficient.
Folic acid: To prevent neural tube defects during early fetal development.
What are the potential benefits of omega-3 supplements (EPA and DHA) during pregnancy?
Reduced risk of preterm birth and low birth weight.
Potential reduction in postpartum depression.
Possible improvements in infant cognitive development and reduced risk of allergies.
What are the potential risks or drawbacks of omega-3 supplementation?
High cost.
Potential for fishy aftertaste or burps.
Risk of excessive blood thinning, which can cause bleeding or hemorrhage.
Delayed labor signals, possibly increasing stillbirth risk.
What is the recommendation for alcohol consumption during pregnancy?
No known safe amount of alcohol exists during pregnancy, so complete abstinence is recommended to prevent fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD).
What are the recommendations for caffeine intake during pregnancy?
Limit caffeine intake to less than 300 mg/day (about 2-3 cups of coffee), as higher levels increase the risk of pregnancy loss.
Which herbal teas are unsafe during pregnancy, and why?
Avoid chamomile and stinging nettle teas, as they may cause uterine contractions. Citrus and ginger teas are generally considered safe.
Why are pregnant individuals more vulnerable to foodborne illnesses, and what are the key pathogens to avoid?
Pregnancy suppresses the immune system to prevent the body from attacking the fetus.
Key pathogens include Listeria monocytogenes (found in deli meats, unpasteurized dairy, and raw/smoked fish) and Toxoplasma gondii (found in undercooked meats and cat litter).
What are the key food safety tips for pregnancy?
Clean hands and surfaces, separate raw and cooked foods, cook thoroughly, and chill perishable items. Avoid raw/undercooked meat, fish, eggs, unpasteurized dairy, soft cheeses, and refrigerated pâté.
How can nausea and vomiting during pregnancy be managed?
Eat dry crackers before rising.
Consume small, frequent meals.
Avoid offensive or highly seasoned foods.
Take vitamin B6 or ginger supplements.
What dietary strategies can help manage heartburn during pregnancy?
Eat small, frequent meals and drink fluids between meals.
Avoid eating late at night.
Stay upright after meals and elevate the head of the bed.
Use TUMS if necessary.
What is PICA in pregnancy, and how is it managed?
PICA involves cravings for non-food substances like dirt or clay.
Management includes normalizing food intake, addressing deficiencies, and using supplements as needed.
How can leg cramps during pregnancy be managed?
Stretching, hydration, exercise, and magnesium or calcium supplements may help.
What is the suggested treatment for fluid retention (edema) in pregnancy?
Drink water to flush out excess sodium and rest with legs elevated. If swelling is accompanied by high blood pressure or headache, it could indicate pre-eclampsia and should be addressed immediately.
What are the differences between gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, and eclampsia?
Gestational hypertension: High blood pressure (>140/>90 mmHg) during pregnancy.
Pre-eclampsia: Hypertension with edema, proteinuria, visual disturbances, and headaches.
Eclampsia: Severe complication involving seizures, which is life-threatening.
How is pre-eclampsia treated?
Delivery of the baby is the only cure, typically after 32+ weeks.
When and how is gestational diabetes screened in Canada?
Screening is recommended at 24-28 weeks using a 50g glucose challenge test (GCT).
What are the possible effects of GDM on infants?
Macrosomia (large for gestational age).
Severe hypoglycemia after birth.
Increased risk of perinatal morbidity, including stillbirth.
