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Nutritional Needs of a Pregnant Woman Compared to Those of an Adolescent

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Nutritional Needs of a Pregnant Woman Compared to Those of an Adolescent
Within this assignment I am going to look at the main nutritional needs for pregnant women and adolescents and discuss the similarities and differences between their nutritional requirements.
[1] Firstly, the nutrients needed by pregnant women are Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Vitamin B – (B1, B2, B3 & B6), Folic Acid (B9), Calcium, Iron, Protein, zinc. (2011)
Vitamin A is needed for the baby and mother need because it helps to develop bones and teeth. The pregnant mother must take 770 micrograms of Vitamin A per day. There are many different food sources in which you can find vitamin A, these are: milk, eggs, carrots, spinach, green and yellow vegetables, broccoli, potatoes.
Vitamin D is needed as it helps the body use calcium and phosphorus which promotes strong teeth and bones. A dose of 5 Micrograms a day is needed. Food sources in which vitamin D can be found are milk and fatty fish.
Vitamin E is needed as it helps the baby’s body to form and use red blood cells and muscles. A dose of 15 milligrams per day is needed. Food sources in which vitamin E can be found are vegetable oil, wheat germ, nuts, spinach, and fortified cereals.
Vitamin C is needed as it is an antioxidant that protects tissues from damage and helps the body absorb iron and helps the baby build a healthy immune system. A dose of 80 - 85 milligrams per day is needed. Food sources in which vitamin C can be found are citrus fruits, bell peppers, green beans, strawberries, papaya, potatoes, broccoli, and tomatoes.
Vitamin B1 is needed for pregnant women as it raises energy levels and regulates the nervous system. The dose needed is 1.4 Milligrams per day. Food sources in which vitamin B1 can be found are whole grain, fortified cereals, wheat germ, organ meats, eggs, rice, pasta, berries, nuts, legumes, pork.
Vitamin B2 is needed as it helps to maintain energy, good eyesight and healthy skin. The dose needed is 1.4 milligrams. Food sources in which vitamin B2 can be found



Bibliography: * [1] Kathy Moore 2011. Nutrients needed by pregnant women [online] http://www.livestrong.com/article/503823-nutrients-needed-by-a-pregnant-woman/ [date accessed: 20/11/12] * [2] UCSF medical centre 2012. Nutrition tips for breast feeding mothers [online] http://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/nutrition_tips_for_breastfeeding_mothers/index.html [date accessed: 20/11/12]

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