inal answer:
A pregnant woman with Celiac Disease needs a diet rich in calories, proteins, lipids, vitamins, and minerals, with a focus on folic acid, calcium, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. Sources include leafy greens, fruits, gluten-free whole grains, nuts, and legumes, and supplements like folate are highly recommended.
Step-by-step explanation:
During pregnancy, it's imperative that a woman's diet is rich in nutrients to support both her health and the development of the fetus. This becomes even more crucial for a pregnant woman with Celiac Disease (CD), as she needs to avoid gluten while ensuring she receives adequate calories, proteins, lipids, vitamins, and minerals. Intake of certain nutrients is particularly important due to their role in fetal development and maternal health.
The pregnant mother must take extra care to consume sufficient amounts of folic acid (vitamin B9), which is crucial in preventing neural tube defects like spina bifida. Additionally, calcium is vital for strong bone development, while iron helps prevent anemia and ensures proper oxygen transport to the fetus. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the development of the fetal brain and retina.
Leafy green vegetables, fruits, whole wheat (gluten-free alternatives for those with CD), nuts, and legumes are excellent sources of these nutrients. It's also important for pregnant women, especially those with CD where nutrient absorption might be compromised, to consider taking supplements, including at least 400 µg/day of folate as recommended by the Food and Nutrition Board of the Institute of Medicine. Since CD can often lead to deficiencies, careful monitoring and diet planning are essential.