Physiological Changes Alter Nutrient Needs During Pregnancy

Course overview

The physiological changes that occur during pregnancy must be understood in order to provide the best nutritional care to pregnant women. Organ systems are altered, and metabolic changes in the mother and nutrient needs of the fetus during pregnancy affect maternal nutrient needs. The placenta plays an important role in ensuring adequate nutrient transfer between mother and fetus, and the supply of nutrients regulates growth factors, necessary for fetal growth. In recent years, the essential omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA have been shown to be critical to brain and nervous system function in infants and are essential during pregnancy.