ABSTRACT
The dietary requirements of pregnant women are higher to meet the needs of maternal tissue and plasma volume expansion, fetal growth, and preparation for lactation. To partially meet these needs, a number of normal cardiovascular, renal, endocrine, and metabolic changes during pregnancy improve the absorption and utilization of nutrients. During pregnancy, basal metabolic rate and energy expenditure increase, and additional energy is required for storage in expanding maternal and fetal tissue as well as the placenta. Additional energy requirements are dependent on the expected weight gain of the mother, for which there are a number of determinants. Fat is an important source of energy at all stages of life. Due to adaptations in protein metabolism during pregnancy, the synthesis of protein in pregnant women is increased and protein is stored in the fetus, placenta, and maternal tissues. Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for the cells of the pregnant women and the fetus.
