How maternal malnutrition affects linear growth and development in the offspring

Peggy C. Papathakis, Lauren N. Singh, Mark J. Manary

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

39 Scopus citations

Abstract

Maternal malnutrition is common in the developing world and has detrimental effects on both the mother and infant. Pre-pregnancy nutritional status and weight gain during pregnancy are positively related to fetal growth and development. Internationally, there is no agreement on the method of diagnosis or treatment of moderate or severe malnutrition during pregnancy. Establishing clear guidelines for diagnosis and treatment will be essential in elevating the problem. Possible anthropometric measurements used to detect and monitor maternal malnutrition include pre-pregnancy BMI, weight gain, and mid upper arm circumference. Food supplements have the potential to increase gestational weight gain and energy intake which are positively associated with fetal growth and development. Overall more studies are needed to conclude the impact of food/nutrient supplements on infant growth in undernourished pregnant women in developing countries. Currently, a study underway may provide much needed documentation of the benefits of treating malnutrition in pregnancy.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)40-47
Number of pages8
JournalMolecular and Cellular Endocrinology
Volume435
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 5 2016

Keywords

  • Birth length
  • Food supplementation
  • Low birth weight
  • Maternal malnutrition
  • Offspring development

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