Energy metabolism pregnancy

Keshri, G., M. Bajpai, V. Lakshmi, B.S. Setty, and G. Gupta. 2004. Role of energy metabolism in the pregnancy interceptive action of Ferula assafoetida and Melia UTedarach extracts in rat. Contraception 70(5) 429-432. 

Smigaj D, Roman-Drago NM, Amini SB, Caritis SN, Kalhan SC, Catalano PM. The effect of oral terbutaline on maternal glucose metabolism and energy expenditure in pregnancy. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1998 178(5) 1041-7. 

Protein turnover is not completely efficient in the reutilization of amino acids. Some are lost by oxidative catabolism, while others are used in synthesis of non-protein metabolites. For this reason, a dietary source of protein is needed to maintain adequate synthesis of protein. During periods of growth, pregnancy, lactation, or recovery from illness, supplemental dietary protein is required. These processes are affected by energy supply and hormonal factors. An overview of amino acid metabolism is presented in Figure 17-1. 

Vitamins are a well-known group of compounds that are essential for human health. Water-soluble vitamins include folate (vitamin B9) to create DNA. Folate also plays an important role in preventing birth defects during early pregnancy. Thiamine is the first vitamin of the B-complex (vitamin Bl) that researchers discovered. It allows the body to break down alcohol and metabolize carbohydrates and amino acids. Like many other B vitamins, riboflavin (vitamin B2) helps the body to metabolize carbohydrates, proteins, and fat. Niacin (vitamin B3) protects the health of skin cells and keeps the digestive system functioning properly. Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) and biotin allow the body to obtain energy from macronutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) acts as a coenzyme, which means it helps chemical reactions to take place. It also plays a vital role in the creation of nonessential amino acids. 

RECOMMENDED DAILY ALLOWANCE OF RIBOFLAVIN. Prior to 1980, the Recommended Dietary Allowances of the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB), National Research Council-National Academy of Sciences, related the allowances for riboflavin to (1) protein allowances (1958), (2) energy intake (1964), and (3) metabolic body size (1968). In the ninth edition, 1980, the FNB concluded that the information available does not support strongly any one of these over another. In the tenth edition, 1989, the FNB listed the following factors as being known to affect the riboflavin requirements nitrogen balance, energy (work) expenditure, and pregnancy-lactation. 

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