# Explain why a pregnant woman requires a greater amount of protein and calcium in her diet compared with a woman who is not pregnant.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610) — 7.1 Diet · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Protein is needed for growth / production of new cells / protein synthesis in the developing baby (foetus)
2. Protein is needed by the mother for repair of her own tissues / production of enzymes / hormones during pregnancy
3. Calcium is needed for the development of healthy bones and teeth in the developing baby
4. The pregnant woman must supply nutrients to the developing baby as well as meeting her own requirements, so greater amounts are needed overall

## Key terms

- [protein](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/protein)
- [calcium](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/calcium)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Cambridge International IGCSE Biology (0610)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-a-pregnant-woman-requires-5d7a7c59) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.