Maternal dietary patterns linked to fetal growth and pregnancy outcomes

Research published in the British Journal of Nutrition and the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition highlights the critical link between maternal dietary patterns and fetal growth outcomes.

A longitudinal study coordinated by Professor Irene Cetin at the State University of Milan monitored 938 healthy women across 24 Italian obstetric centers. Using the SIMPLE nutritional screening tool, researchers assessed first-trimester habits, including fruit and vegetable intake, whole grains, and hemoglobin levels. The findings indicate that adherence to healthy eating patterns from the first trimester significantly influences fetal growth trajectories, which were monitored via ultrasound from the second to the third trimester.

Complementary research indicates that distinct eating patterns are associated with maternal BMI, gestational weight gain, and infant birth outcomes. Healthy patterns, such as the Mediterranean diet—characterized by high intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts—are linked to lower risks of excessive weight gain, preterm delivery, and low birth weight. Conversely, diets high in sugar, saturated fats, and ultra-processed foods are associated with different risks for small or large for gestational age (SGA/LGA) outcomes.