Enlist the physiological changes occurring in pregnancy. Explain how they influence the nutrient needs during pregnancy, giving the nutrient requirements.

Physiological Changes in Pregnancy:

1. Cardiovascular Changes:

   • Increased Blood Volume: Blood volume increases by about 30-50% to support the growing fetus and placenta.
   • Increased Cardiac Output: Cardiac output increases to meet the increased oxygen and nutrient demands of the fetus and mother.
   • Increased Heart Rate: The heart rate increases to accommodate the increased blood volume and cardiac output.

2. Respiratory Changes:

   • Increased Oxygen Demand: The growing fetus requires more oxygen, leading to increased oxygen consumption by the mother.
   • Changes in Lung Function: The diaphragm rises due to the expanding uterus, leading to changes in lung capacity and function.

3. Gastrointestinal Changes:

   • Decreased Gastric Motility: Gastric motility decreases, leading to slower digestion and increased risk of gastrointestinal issues such as constipation.
   • Increased Nutrient Absorption: Nutrient absorption increases to ensure adequate nutrient delivery to the fetus.

4. Renal Changes:

   • Increased Renal Blood Flow: Renal blood flow increases to support the increased filtration rate needed to remove waste products from the mother and fetus.
   • Increased Urinary Output: Urinary output increases due to the increased blood volume and filtration rate.

5. Metabolic Changes:

   • Increased Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): BMR increases to meet the energy needs of the growing fetus and maternal tissues.
   • Changes in Insulin Sensitivity: Insulin sensitivity may change, leading to alterations in glucose metabolism.

6. Endocrine Changes:

   • Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) play crucial roles in supporting pregnancy and fetal development.
   • Thyroid Function: Thyroid function may increase, leading to changes in metabolism and energy production.

Influence of Physiological Changes on Nutrient Needs:

1. Energy: Energy needs increase during pregnancy to support the growth and development of the fetus, placenta, and maternal tissues. The average additional energy requirement is around 300-500 extra calories per day in the second and third trimesters.

2. Protein: Protein needs increase to support the growth and development of maternal and fetal tissues. The recommended daily intake of protein during pregnancy is about 71 grams per day.

3. Folate: Folate is essential for fetal neural tube development. The recommended daily intake of folate during pregnancy is 600 micrograms per day.

4. Iron: Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin and to support the increased blood volume during pregnancy. The recommended daily intake of iron during pregnancy is 27 milligrams per day.

5. Calcium: Calcium is essential for fetal bone development and maternal bone health. The recommended daily intake of calcium during pregnancy is 1000 milligrams per day.

6. Vitamin D: Vitamin D is important for calcium absorption and bone health. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D during pregnancy is 600 international units (IU) per day.

7. Other Nutrients: In addition to the above, pregnant women also need increased intake of other nutrients such as vitamin B12, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids to support fetal growth and development.

Conclusion:
Pregnancy is associated with numerous physiological changes that impact nutrient needs. Understanding these changes and their influence on nutrient requirements is essential for ensuring optimal maternal and fetal health during pregnancy. Pregnant women should follow a balanced and nutritious diet to meet their increased nutrient needs and support a healthy pregnancy.