Question

Rita's prepregnancy energy needs were about 2500 kcal per day. Rita is concerned about her energy needs now that she is pregnant and wonders whether she is eating enough to gain between 0.5 and 0.75 lb per week. Which of the following would be true given Rita's dietary intake?

a. Rita is not gaining enough weight.
b. Rita is gaining weight within the recommended range.
c. Rita is gaining too much weight.
d. Rita's weight gain is irrelevant to her pregnancy.

Answer 1

Given Rita's concern about gaining the appropriate amount of weight during pregnancy, as long as she increases her caloric intake by an average of 300 calories per day during the second and third trimesters, she should be gaining weight within the recommended range of 0.5 to 0.75 lb per week.

Step-by-step explanation:

Rita is concerned about her energy needs during pregnancy and whether she is eating enough to gain between 0.5 and 0.75 lb per week. Considering that Rita's prepregnancy energy needs were about 2500 kcal per day, and during pregnancy, it is recommended to consume an additional 300 calories per day on average, especially during the last trimester. Gaining 0.5 to 0.75 lb per week is within the recommended weight gain range for a typical pregnancy.

Doubling her caloric intake is a myth and could lead to excessive weight gain, which can negatively impact the health of the baby and the mother. Rita should ensure her additional caloric intake is nutritionally rich, supporting both her needs and the healthy development of the fetus. Therefore, to answer the student's original question, option b. Rita is gaining weight within the recommended range would be true given her dietary intake is increased responsibly, aligned with the recommended additional intake of 300 calories per day during the second and third trimesters.