Final answer:
Sarah should consume an additional 15 grams of protein per day during pregnancy, which is crucial in the last trimester for fetal growth and maternal health changes.
Step-by-step explanation:
During pregnancy, the need for dietary protein increases to support fetal growth and maternal health. Specifically, in the last 10 weeks of pregnancy, protein accumulates at a rate of approximately 5-6 grams per day to meet the developmental needs of the fetus and the changes in the maternal body.
Considering Sarah's pre-pregnancy protein recommendations and the additional proteins needed particularly in the later stages of pregnancy, it is important to adjust her dietary intake accordingly. The correct amount of additional protein needed during pregnancy, as specified by the information provided, would be about 5-6 grams per day during the last 10 weeks, which aligns with option C, 15 grams.
This increment is essential to support the metabolic demands of the fetus, placenta, and the extra growth of uterine and breast tissues as well as to ensure that the mother maintains adequate reserves for lactation post-delivery.
Sarah should add an additional 15 grams of protein to her diet during pregnancy (option C). This increase in protein intake is especially critical during the last trimester when the fetal growth rate is at its peak.