This is the recommended weight gain range for normal-weight women with a BMI of 18.5-24.9 before pregnancy.Gaining the recommended amount of weight during pregnancy is important for the health of the baby and the mother.

Choice B is wrong because 15-25 pounds is the recommended weight gain range for overweight women with a BMI of 25.0-29.9 before pregnancy.

Choice C is wrong because 28-40 pounds is the recommended weight gain range for underweight women with a BMI of less than 18.5 before pregnancy.

Choice D is wrong because 10-20 pounds is the recommended weight gain range for obese women with a BMI of greater than or equal to 30.0 before pregnancy.

Normal ranges for BMI are 18.5-24.9 for normal weight, less than 18.5 for underweight, 25.0-29.9 for overweight, and greater than or equal to 30.0 for obese.

This statement by the client indicates a need for further education because it is incorrect.

The recommended weight gain during the first trimester is 1-2 kilograms per month, not in total.

The other choices are correct and do not require further education.

Choice B states that after the first trimester, a weight gain of 1 pound per week is recommended for the remaining two trimesters, which is accurate.

Choice C states that during the second trimester, an extra 340 calories per day are needed, which is also true.

Choice D states that during the third trimester, an additional 450 calories per day are required, which is correct as well.

Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, a B vitamin that plays a role in the development of the neural tube, which becomes the brain and spinal cord of the fetus.

Neural tube defects are serious birth abnormalities that can cause disability or death.

Folic acid supplementation before and during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of neural tube defects.

Choice A is wrong because folic acid does not directly promote fetal brain development, although it is involved in the formation of the neural tube, which later develops into the brain.

Choice C is wrong because folic acid does not support healthy placental function.

The placenta is an organ that connects the mother and the fetus, and it does not depend on folic acid for its function.

Choice D is wrong because folic acid does not prevent maternal anemia.

Anemia is a condition in which the blood does not have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen.

Folic acid helps the body make new cells, including red blood cells, but it is not the only factor that affects anemia.

Iron deficiency is a more common cause of anemia during pregnancy.

The recommended daily intake of folic acid for pregnant women is 600 micrograms (mcg), which can be obtained from supplements and fortified foods.

Some natural sources of folate include spinach, avocado, and banana.

This is the recommended weight gain range for overweight women during pregnancy according to the CDC1 and ACOG.

Overweight women have a BMI of 25.0-29.9 before pregnancy.

Choice A is wrong because 25-35 pounds is the recommended weight gain range for normal weight women during pregnancy, who have a BMI of 18.5-24.9 before pregnancy.

Choice C is wrong because 28-40 pounds is the recommended weight gain range for underweight women during pregnancy, who have a BMI of less than 18.5 before pregnancy.

Choice D is wrong because 10-20 pounds is too low for any category of women during pregnancy, and may result in delivering a baby who is too small.

Gaining the recommended amount of weight during pregnancy is important for the health of the mother and the baby, as it can prevent complications such as gestational diabetes, preterm birth, and low birth weight.

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, pregnant women need about an extra 450 calories per day during the third trimester.

This is to support the growth and development of the baby and the mother’s increased energy needs.

Choice A is wrong because 340 calories is the recommended additional intake for the second trimester.

Choice C is wrong because 250 calories is too low for the third trimester and may not provide enough nutrients for the baby.

Choice D is wrong because 550 calories is too high for the third trimester and may lead to excessive weight gain or gestational diabetes.

The normal range of calorie intake during pregnancy depends on the pre-pregnancy weight, activity level and age of the mother.

However, a general guideline is about 1,800 calories per day during the first trimester, 2,200 calories per day during the second trimester and 2,400 calories per day during the third trimester.

These calories should come from a balanced diet of protein, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Sweets and fats should be kept to a minimum.

Fluid intake is also important and pregnant women should drink several glasses of water each day.

Some foods and drinks should be avoided during pregnancy, such as unpasteurized milk and cheese, raw or undercooked meat and seafood, alcohol and caffeine.

Food safety practices such as washing, cooking and chilling food properly should also be followed.