Nutrition and Wellness in Pregnancy Flashcards

What daily folic acid dose is recommended to reduce neural tube defect risk in women at average risk?

Answer: 400 mcg

The standard recommendation is 400 mcg (0.4 mg) daily, starting at least one month before conception and continuing through early pregnancy. Higher doses are reserved for women with a prior NTD-affected pregnancy.

Approximately how many additional calories per day are recommended in the second trimester for a woman of normal prepregnancy weight?

Answer: About 340 kcal

Energy needs do not rise in the first trimester. They rise by about 340 kcal/day in the second trimester and about 450 kcal/day in the third.

What is the recommended daily iron intake (RDA) during pregnancy?

Answer: 27 mg

The RDA rises from 18 mg to 27 mg per day to support the expanded blood volume and fetal needs.

Which fish should be avoided during pregnancy because of high mercury content?

Answer: Swordfish

Swordfish, shark, king mackerel, and tilapia-like low-mercury choices aside, the high-mercury fish (swordfish, shark, king mackerel, tilefish) can harm fetal neurodevelopment. Salmon, shrimp, and light tuna are lower-mercury choices.

What is the generally recommended maximum daily caffeine intake in pregnancy?

Answer: Under 200 mg

ACOG advises limiting caffeine to under 200 mg per day, roughly one 12-oz cup of coffee, because higher intake is associated with possible increased miscarriage risk.

Which nutrient is most associated with preventing neural tube defects?

Answer: Folate

Adequate folate before and during early pregnancy sharply reduces the risk of neural tube defects such as spina bifida.