MATERNAL NUTRITION AND FETAL DEVELOPMENT: EXPLORING DIETARY INTERVENTIONS, MICRONUTRIENT DEFICIENCIES, AND LONG-TERM HEALTH OUTCOMES

Abstract

Background: Maternal nutrition plays a fundamental role in pregnancy outcomes, fetal development, and long-term offspring health. Inadequate nutrient intake and micronutrient deficiencies during gestation contribute to complications such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and maternal morbidity. Despite growing awareness, deficiencies in key nutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamin D remain prevalent, particularly in resource-limited settings. Understanding the impact of maternal dietary patterns and nutrient status on fetal growth and neonatal health is essential for improving pregnancy care and reducing adverse outcomes.

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the dietary intake, micronutrient deficiencies, and anthropometric measurements of pregnant women and assess their association with pregnancy complications and neonatal outcomes.

Methods: A hospital-based, cross-sectional study was conducted on 500 pregnant women. Maternal dietary intake was assessed using a 24-hour dietary recall and Food Frequency Questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements, including body mass index (BMI) and weight gain, were recorded. Blood samples were analyzed for hemoglobin, serum ferritin, folate, vitamin B12, calcium, vitamin D, and thyroid function. Pregnancy outcomes, neonatal birth weight, and perinatal complications were documented. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0, with a significance level of p<0.05.

Results: Vitamin D deficiency was prevalent in 45.6% of participants, followed by anemia (38.2%), calcium deficiency (30.1%), iron deficiency (25.7%), and folic acid deficiency (18.3%). Nutrient intake assessment showed inadequate protein (55.4g vs. 75g recommended), iron (11.3mg vs. 27mg), and folic acid (340mcg vs. 600mcg). Preterm birth occurred in 12.8% of cases, low birth weight in 9.5%, macrosomia in 8.7%, and NICU admissions in 14.3%. Overweight and obesity before pregnancy were observed in 28.5% and 11.4% of women, respectively, contributing to increased gestational diabetes (11.6%) and hypertensive disorders (9.3%).

Conclusion: The study highlights the significant burden of micronutrient deficiencies and inadequate dietary intake among pregnant women, reinforcing their association with adverse pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. Routine micronutrient screening, dietary counseling, and supplementation should be integrated into antenatal care to optimize maternal and fetal health. Strengthening public health policies on nutrition education and fortification programs is essential to prevent long-term health risks in future generations.