Research on Dietary Guidelines Compliance During Preconception and Pregnancy
Study Overview
Researchers investigated adherence to dietary guidelines among pregnant women and couples attempting to conceive. These guidelines serve as nutritional recommendations aimed at promoting health and preventing diet-related diseases. Non-compliance during the preconception period and pregnancy could adversely affect fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and infant health.
Methodology
To evaluate adherence levels and factors influencing compliance, the researchers conducted a review of 18 studies across ten countries, with findings published in the journal *Maternal & Child Nutrition*.
Key Findings
The research revealed that women generally fell short of the dietary guidelines regarding vegetable and cereal consumption during preconception and pregnancy. Additionally, many women in the target demographic had low intakes of essential micronutrients, including dietary folate, iron, and calcium.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a balanced diet should incorporate vegetables and cereal grains to mitigate risks of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers, ultimately improving maternal and infant health. Sufficient intake of folate, iron, and calcium is crucial to reduce risks of neural tube defects, low birth weight, maternal anemia, and pre-eclampsia.
Conversely, total fat intake exceeded the recommended daily limit of 30% of total daily energy in just over half of the studies reviewed. This dietary trend is significant as it can contribute to unhealthy weight gain in mothers and negatively affect both maternal and fetal health.
Predictors of Compliance
The analysis highlighted three primary predictors of adherence to dietary guidelines during preconception and pregnancy. Women with higher educational levels demonstrated better compliance. Additionally, older age and non-smoking status among pre-conceptual and pregnant women were linked to improved adherence to dietary recommendations. Various demographic factors also influenced compliance levels.
Expert Insights
Cherie Caut, a researcher from Endeavour College of Natural Health in Australia, commented on the findings: “The relationship between a healthy diet and birth outcomes is well-established, yet our research suggests women may not be following the guidelines developed to help them eat well, largely because they are unaware of the guidelines in the first place. The community needs better information about healthy eating to address this issue. Promoting links between diet and healthy pregnancy and birth, and increasing support for health professionals may help better inform women and their partners about the importance of dietary choices on pregnancy success.”
References
Caut, C., Leach, M., and Steel, A. (2019). Dietary guideline adherence during preconception and pregnancy: A systematic review. *Maternal & Child Nutrition*.
EurekAlert! (2019). Are women getting adequate nutrition during preconception and pregnancy? [online] Available at: https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-12/w-awg120219.php [Accessed 9 Dec. 2019].
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