Final answer:
In pregnancy, it is recommended to distribute carbohydrate intake throughout the day to maintain a steady supply of energy. The American Dietary Guidelines suggest that carbohydrates should make up 50-70% of total calorie intake.
Step-by-step explanation:
In pregnancy, it is recommended to distribute carbohydrate intake throughout the day to maintain a steady supply of energy. The American Dietary Guidelines suggest that carbohydrates should make up 50-70% of total calorie intake. This can be achieved by including foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes in the diet.
For example, a pregnant person consuming a 2000 calorie diet could aim for approximately 1000-1400 calories to come from carbohydrates. This would be equivalent to about 250-350 grams of carbohydrates per day.
It is important to focus on complex carbohydrates, which are broken down by the body more slowly, providing sustained energy. These include whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread, as well as fruits, vegetables, and legumes.