NutritionLesson 1 of 2 in the course Special Nutritional Considerations for Cardiovascular Health

Cardiovascular Nutrition Across the Lifespan: Pregnancy to Older Adulthood

5 flashcards · 5 quiz questions · 5 match pairs · 4 fill-in sentences · English

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Summary

Pregnancy places new demands on the cardiovascular system. Nutrition and healthy habits help support the pregnant client’s heart and circulation as well as fetal growth and development.

Cardiac output and vascular volume increase during pregnancy to support the developing fetus. Blood vessels dilate and systemic vascular resistance decreases, which can lower blood pressure, especially in the second trimester. After 20 weeks, blood pressure may rise but typically remains near the client’s pre-pregnancy level. Maternal heart rate also increases, and the heart may rotate due to pressure on the diaphragm and undergo mild hypertrophy as blood volume rises.

All flashcards

What is uteroplacental circulation?
The transfer of oxygen and nutrients from the pregnant client to the fetus through the placenta and umbilical cord.
What cardiovascular changes commonly occur during pregnancy?
Cardiac output, blood volume, and maternal heart rate increase; vasodilation lowers systemic vascular resistance and may lower blood pressure.
Why might an infant with congenital heart disease need specialized feeding support?
The infant may use more energy or tire during feeding, making it difficult to consume enough nutrients.
What is responsive feeding for children?
Offering nutritious foods while allowing children to respond to their own hunger and fullness cues.
What is the main dietary emphasis of the DASH pattern?
Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fish, unsaturated fats, and low-fat dairy.

Quiz questions

  1. When are complementary foods generally introduced for infants?Answer: Around six months of age.
  2. Why should infant formula be prepared exactly as directed?Answer: Adding extra water can reduce the energy and nutrients an infant receives.
  3. Why is LDL often called “bad” cholesterol?Answer: It contributes to plaque deposits in arteries.
  4. Which cardiovascular effects can occur with eating disorders?Answer: Electrolyte imbalances and abnormal heart rhythms.
  5. Why should older adults discuss diet and supplement changes with a health professional or pharmacist?Answer: Changes may affect how some medications work.

Based on Nutrition for Nurses by Emerald Charity Bilbrew, Jody Vogelzang, Kelli Whittington (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.

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