Final answer:
The RDA of protein for pregnant and lactating women varies based on their individual needs and stage of pregnancy or lactation. During pregnancy, the protein requirement is highest in the last 10 weeks, accumulating at a rate of 5-6 grams per day. For lactating women, the energy cost of lactation is met by additional food consumption.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of protein for pregnant and lactating women varies based on their individual needs and stage of pregnancy or lactation. During pregnancy, the protein requirement is highest in the last 10 weeks, accumulating at a rate of 5-6 grams per day. However, specific nutrient requirements are less easy to specify.
For lactating women, the energy cost of lactation is met by additional food consumption. The amount of energy required for milk production is usually 80% more than the energy value of the milk. Therefore, a lactating mother's diet should supply the same amount of energy as the milk produced.