Why is it particularly important for a pregnant woman to obtain ...

[jasdeep_brar]

Why is it particularly important for a pregnant woman to obtain all of the essential nutrients (or have adequate stores of them) during the critical periods of embryonic/fetal development?

Question 2

To prevent hyponatremia during prolonged events, athletes should:
 a. drink large amounts of water over the course of the event.
  b. restrict salt intakes during the week prior to the event.
 c. eat bananas in the last half of a long event.
 d. limit fluid and sports gel intakes during the event.
 e. favor sports drinks over water during the event.

[meow1234]

Answer to Question 1

These critical periods are called so because organs such as the brain or heart develop in a definite time period, and if essential nutrients are lacking, these structures may not develop completely, which will compromise their function. Once the heart forms, it cannot reform at a later time. The nutrients to support optimal tissue and organ development need to be present at just the right time. Early malnutrition at around 10 weeks' gestation may impair the development of the heart and brain.

Answer to Question 2

e