Final answer:
The recommended weight gain for a woman with a normal pre-pregnancy weight is 25-35 pounds. This supports the growth of the fetus and the mother’s physiological changes. An additional 300 calories per day is recommended during the later stages of pregnancy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The recommended weight gain for a woman with a normal pre-pregnancy weight status is 25-35 pounds. This range accounts for the necessary growth and development of the fetus, as well as changes in the mother's body such as increased blood volume and the growth of maternal tissues. During the second and third trimesters, a modest increase in caloric intake is recommended to support the fetus's growth, typically around an additional 300 calories per day.
Pregnancy weight gain varies and includes not only the weight of the baby but also the placenta, amniotic fluid, increased blood volume, as well as the growth of breast and uterine tissue. Importantly, about 2.3 kg (5 lbs) of this weight gain is attributed to fat storage that serves as a reserve for the demands of breastfeeding.
It is essential to maintain a balanced diet and healthy weight gain within the recommended range to support the baby's development and the mother's well-being, minimizing potential health risks related to excessive weight gain.