Which of the following is the best nutritional advice for a pregnant teenager?

Prepare for the UWorld Maternity Test with comprehensive flashcards and multiple-choice questions, complete with detailed explanations. Get ready to ace your exam with confidence!

Increasing calcium intake is crucial for pregnant teenagers because they are still in their growth phase and require additional calcium to support the development of the fetus's bones and teeth, as well as their own bone health. During pregnancy, the baby's skeletal system begins to form, and an adequate supply of calcium is essential to prevent deficiencies that could affect both the mother and child. The recommended dietary allowance for calcium increases during pregnancy, emphasizing the importance of incorporating calcium-rich foods like dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods into the diet.

The other options do not appropriately address the specific nutritional needs of a pregnant teenager. While limiting sources of saturated fats and focusing on balanced nutrition is important, a complete avoidance of saturated fats is not practical or necessary, especially since some fats are essential for fetal development. Similarly, carbohydrate restriction is not advisable during pregnancy, as carbohydrates provide the necessary energy required for the increased metabolic demands of the body. Finally, while protein is vital for growth, limiting sources to just meat and dairy would neglect plant-based protein options, which are important for a balanced diet and may also be more accessible to some teenagers.

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