A 30-year-old pregnant woman in her second trimester presents for antenatal check-up. As per ICMR-NIN 2020, the RDA for iron during pregnancy is significantly increased to meet expanded maternal red cell mass and fetal needs. What is the recommended daily iron intake for an adult pregnant woman?

• A 18 mg/day
• B 27 mg/day ✓
• C 35 mg/day
• D 45 mg/day

Explanation

ICMR-NIN 2020 recommends 27 mg/day of iron for pregnant women, up from 18 mg for non-pregnant women. The increase supports expanded maternal blood volume and fetal-placental growth. Option A is the non-pregnant RDA. Option D is the FAO/WHO upper estimate sometimes cited but not the Indian RDA.

Reference: ICMR-NIN Nutrient Requirements for Indians, 2020 ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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