In providing prenatal care to a patient,what does the nurse teach the expectant mother?

A) Protein intake needs to decrease to preserve kidney function.
B) Calcium intake is especially important in the first trimester.
C) Folic acid is needed to help prevent birth defects and anemia.
D) The mother should take in as many extra vitamins and minerals as possible.

Folic acid intake is particularly important for DNA synthesis and growth of red blood cells.Inadequate intake may lead to fetal neural tube defects (such as anencephaly)or maternal megaloblastic anemia.Protein intake throughout pregnancy needs to increase to 60 g daily.Calcium intake is especially critical in the third trimester,when fetal bones are mineralized.Prenatal care usually includes vitamin and mineral supplementation to ensure daily intakes;however,pregnant women should not take additional supplements beyond prescribed amounts.