Which statement from a pregnant adolescent should raise concern regarding her nutritional intake?

• A. "I am trying to eat balanced meals each day."
• B. "I should only gain 10 pounds so the baby will be small like me."
• C. "I enjoy drinking milk for calcium."
• D. "Fruits and vegetables are part of my daily diet."

Answer: (B)

The statement expressing concern about limiting weight gain to just 10 pounds due to a belief that it will result in a smaller baby raises significant red flags regarding nutritional intake. Adequate weight gain during pregnancy is crucial for the health of both the mother and the developing fetus. Adolescent mothers, in particular, need to support their own growth as well as that of the baby, making appropriate weight gain during pregnancy essential.

Guidelines generally recommend a weight gain of about 25 to 35 pounds for someone at a normal weight prior to pregnancy, and even more for underweight adolescents. Aiming for only a minimal weight gain could lead to inadequate nourishment for the baby, potentially resulting in low birth weight and health complications.

In contrast, the other statements reflect positive attitudes toward nutrition and health during pregnancy. Eating balanced meals, enjoying milk for calcium, and including fruits and vegetables regularly all contribute to a well-rounded diet that supports both maternal and fetal health. These choices indicate that the adolescent is making efforts to meet nutritional needs, which is essential for a healthy pregnancy outcome.