Question

The Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) of protein in(g) increases during lactation (0 - 6m) by how many grams?

• A. +13
• B. +15
• C. +19
• D. +23

Hint:

ICMR RDA Protein Addition:
Pregnancy: $+23\text{ g/day}$.
Lactation (0--6 months): $+19\text{ g/day}$.
Lactation (6--12 months): $+13\text{ g/day}$.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
ICMR-NIN Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) establish additional nutrient requirements for pregnant and lactating women to support breast milk synthesis.
Key Formula or Approach:
\[ \text{Protein Allowance during Lactation (0--6 months)} = \text{Base Adult RDA} + 19\text{ g/day} \]

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR-NIN) nutrient requirements for Indians:
- An average lactating mother produces approximately $750 - 850\text{ mL}$ of breast milk per day (containing $\approx 1.15\text{ g protein / 100 mL}$).
- Accounting for breast milk protein secretion and the physiological efficiency of dietary protein conversion ($70\%$):
The additional protein allowance recommended during the first six months of lactation (0--6 months) is +19 g/day (and +13 g/day during 6--12 months).

Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, the increase during lactation (0 - 6m) is +19 grams, matching option (C).