Question

"Patricia is pregnant with her first child and she is concerned about her physical appearance and the weight she knows she will gain as her pregnancy progresses. She seeks out the assistance of a registered dietitian. What guidance did the dietitian likely give her?"

Answer 1

A registered dietitian would guide Patricia to increase her calorie intake by about 300 calories per day during the last trimester and focus on eating nutritious foods. Excessive weight gain should be avoided, but a healthy and modest weight gain is normal. Vitamins like folic acid and appropriate exercise may also be recommended.

Step-by-step explanation:

If Patricia is pregnant and seeking advice on managing her weight gain during pregnancy, a registered dietitian would likely offer guidance centered around maintaining a healthy and balanced diet. The dietitian would inform Patricia that during pregnancy, there is a modest increase in caloric needs—about an extra 300 calories per day, primarily during the last trimester. It is essential to consume a variety of nutritious foods to provide adequate nutrients for both the fetus and the mother.

Moreover, the dietitian would probably discuss with Patricia that an expected weight gain is part of a healthy pregnancy, contributing not only to the fetus's growth but also to the increased blood volume, amniotic fluid, and development of additional breast tissue. While it is important not to double caloric intake to avoid excessive weight gain, it is also crucial to ensure those additional calories come from healthy and nutrient-rich sources. In addition to calorie intake, the dietitian may recommend prenatal vitamins, suggesting the intake of folic acid to help prevent certain birth defects, and advise on appropriate exercise routines.

Answer 2

Step-by-step explanation:

Apart from Patricia's concern for her physical appearance and the weight she knows she'll likely gain as her pregnancy progresses, the dietitian will likely advice her not to gain too much weight because apart from her "physical appearance worries", gaining excessive while pregnant can also raise one's risk for birth complications such as C-section delivery and even premature birth.

In addition, the dietitian will likely offer Patricia more guidelines or tips such as:

****Commencing pregnancy at a healthy weight ( between 25 to 35 pounds), gaining more if underweight or gaining less if obese or overweight.

****Eating moderately but often, focusing on small, frequent meals that are high in lean proteins, fruits and vegetables.

****Drinking enough water ( about ten 8-ounce glasses of water) daily as this helps to aid metabolism and digestion as well as constipation prevention while preventing dehydration.

****Learning how to combine something healthy with less healthy cravings in the event of cravings for less healthy foods

**** Taking exercises such as walking very seriously as it helps to burn a great deal of excessive calories

**** Maintaining a recommended weight region at various stages of the pregnancy which will be in the best interest of mother and child