Final answer:
An overweight woman is recommended to gain about 15-25 pounds during pregnancy to ensure a healthy pregnancy and minimize health risks. Consuming an extra 300 calories per day during the second and third trimesters supports the growth of the fetus and additional maternal needs. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Step-by-step explanation:
Recommended Pregnancy Weight Gain for an Overweight Woman
For an overweight woman, the recommended weight gain during pregnancy is generally on the lower end of the scale. According to the Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines, an overweight woman should aim for a weight gain of about 15-25 pounds throughout the entire pregnancy. This is less than the weight gain recommended for women of normal weight to ensure a healthy pregnancy and to minimize potential health risks to both the mother and the baby. It is important to note that this is a general recommendation and individual circumstances may vary. Therefore, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
The weight gain during pregnancy contributes to the growth of the fetus, extra fat storage for breastfeeding, increased blood volume, and additional maternal tissues. Consuming an additional 300 calories per day during the second and third trimesters is typically sufficient to support this growth. Excessive weight gain can lead to complications such as gestational diabetes and increased birth weight of the baby, which can result in obesity and diabetes later in life. Hence, maintaining a balance is crucial.
Option C (15-25 pounds) is the correct answer to how many pounds are recommended for an overweight woman to gain during pregnancy.