Cara is 8 weeks pregnant and has just begun experiencing morning sickness & unusual food cravings. She has not gained any significant weight since finding out that she was pregnant, and she currently exercises for 3 hours per week on a stationary bike. How should she adjust her routine for an optimal pregnancy?

• A. She should be eating more Calories per day to help her start gaining weight.
• B. She should add mountain biking into her routine to give her more fresh air.
• C. She should decrease the amount of exercise she is doing as it could be dangerous for the fetus.
• D. She does not need to make any major adjustments to her routine at the moment.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that during early pregnancy (such as 8 weeks), it is common for women to experience morning sickness and food cravings, but significant weight gain is not typically expected yet.
2. Recognize that moderate exercise, like 3 hours per week on a stationary bike, is generally safe and beneficial during pregnancy unless there are specific medical contraindications.
3. Consider that increasing calorie intake significantly at this early stage is not necessary unless advised by a healthcare provider, as the body’s energy needs increase gradually throughout pregnancy.
4. Evaluate the suggestion to add more intense or different types of exercise (e.g., mountain biking) carefully, since sudden changes or high-impact activities may not be recommended without professional guidance.
5. Conclude that maintaining the current routine without major adjustments is appropriate at this stage, focusing on balanced nutrition and safe, moderate physical activity.