Key Nutrients
What daily supplement (~400 µg) significantly reduces the risk of spina bifida and other neural tube defects?
Folic acid
Why is protein especially important during pregnancy?
Supports maternal tissue growth (blood, uterus, placenta)
What is the term for craving or ingesting non-food items (like clay or ice) during pregnancy, often linked to iron deficiency anemia?
Pica
Which calcium-rich foods support nerve transmission, bone building, and blood clotting during pregnancy?
Dairy products and leafy green vegetables
When should prenatal vitamins ideally be started?
Before conception or as early in pregnancy as possible
What mineral supports nerve transmission, bone building, and blood clotting during pregnancy?
Calcium
Provide an example of a complete plant-based protein combination.
Grain + legume (e.g., tortilla + beans)
Name two maternal symptoms commonly seen with iron-deficiency anemia.
Fatigue and dizziness
What precaution should be taken with deli meats (e.g., lunch meats) during pregnancy?
Must be heated to steaming hot to kill Listeria before consumption
Why are prenatal supplements recommended even with a healthy diet?
To meet increased needs for folic acid, iron, iodine, and vitamin D
Name two nutrients commonly found in prenatal supplements
Folic acid and iron (also acceptable: iodine, vitamin D)
Name two animal-based protein sources beneficial for pregnancy.
Dairy and eggs
Identify two fetal risks associated with untreated iron-deficiency anemia.
Preterm birth and low birth weight
Which high-mercury fish should be avoided during pregnancy to protect fetal brain development?
Fish such as swordfish, tuna, and marlin
Which supplement is critical for pregnant vegetarians and vegans?
Vitamin B₁₂
Which fatty acids support fetal brain development?
Omega‑3s – DHA and EPA
Which vitamin enhances iron absorption when paired with iron-rich foods?
Vitamin C
400 (Double Jeopardy) – List two dietary strategies to help prevent or treat iron-deficiency anemia in pregnant women.
Answer: Eat iron-rich foods (e.g., red meat, legumes, leafy greens) and pair with vitamin C to improve absorption
Why should unpasteurized dairy and soft cheeses be avoided while pregnant?
They carry a high risk of Listeria contamination and infection
Name two nutrients often included in prenatal vitamins.
Calcium and iodine
List three B‑vitamins essential during pregnancy.
Folic acid (B9), B12, and others like B6, B2, or B1
Why must pregnant vegetarians pay extra attention to iron and zinc intake?
Plant sources are less absorbable; requirements are higher
Explain why iron supplementation is recommended in pregnancy and what's the typical daily amount in prenatal vitamins.
It supports increased blood volume and fetal development; prenatal vitamins typically contain ~27 mg daily
How many extra calories are generally recommended during the second trimester?
Approximately 340 extra calories per day
Which omega‑3 fatty acid is commonly added to prenatal supplements for fetal health?
DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid