Which statement best describes how proper maternal nutrition during pregnancy affects the placenta?

• A. A low-calorie diet during pregnancy promotes a healthier placenta by preventing excessive placental growth.
• B. Adequate intake of energy and key nutrients supports normal placental growth and function, improving nutrient and oxygen delivery to the fetus.
• C. Only maternal protein intake influences placental development; vitamins and minerals do not play a meaningful role.
• D. Maternal nutrition has little effect on placental development because the placenta grows independently of the mother's diet.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of the placenta during pregnancy. The placenta is an organ that develops in the uterus and facilitates the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste between the mother and fetus.
2. Step 2: Recognize that proper maternal nutrition provides the necessary energy and key nutrients (such as proteins, vitamins, and minerals) that support the normal growth and function of the placenta.
3. Step 3: Know that adequate placental growth ensures efficient delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus, which is critical for healthy fetal development.
4. Step 4: Understand that a low-calorie diet can restrict placental growth and function, potentially leading to insufficient nutrient and oxygen supply to the fetus, which is not beneficial.
5. Step 5: Conclude that maternal nutrition broadly influences placental development, and it is not limited to protein intake alone; vitamins and minerals also play important roles.