What is an important dietary recommendation for pregnant women?

Increasing the intake of calcium and iron-rich foods is a crucial dietary recommendation for pregnant women due to the significant nutritional demands of both the mother and the developing fetus. Calcium is essential for the development of the fetal skeleton and to prevent maternal bone density loss. During pregnancy, the body requires additional calcium to support the growing baby's needs, usually recommending around 1,000 mg per day.

Iron is another critical nutrient, as during pregnancy the volume of blood in a woman's body increases, which necessitates higher iron levels to support this expanded blood supply and to ensure adequate oxygen delivery to the fetus. Insufficient iron intake can lead to anemia, which is common during pregnancy and can affect both maternal health and fetal development.

In contrast, decreasing the intake of carbohydrates, avoiding all dairy products, or limiting water intake does not align with the nutritional needs during pregnancy. Carbohydrates are the body's primary energy source and are essential for the mother’s health and the baby’s growth. Dairy products provide important nutrients, including calcium and vitamin D, which are particularly important during pregnancy. Limiting water intake can lead to dehydration, which can negatively impact both maternal and fetal health.