PREGNANCY & NUTRITION

4 min read /

The journey from pregnancy to childbirth is challenging, with several factors impacting outcomes of both maternal and child health. Diet and nutrition, specifically play a fundamental role in fertility, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.

Infertility refers to the inability to conceive after a year of trying to conceive. Approximately 15% of couples globally experience difficulties in achieving pregnancy, with female infertility representing 35% of all infertility cases. The World Health Organisation estimates that infertility affects 80 million women around the world.2   Affecting 8-13% of reproductive-age women, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common cause of anovulatory infertility.2   According to research, diet and fertility are linked, furthermore, diets high in trans fat, processed fats and added sugars may affect fertility negatively.2 Recommendations for the management of  PCOS infertility include interventions focused on lifestyle changes such as adopting a  Mediterranean diet. As well as spreading meals throughout the day to manage blood sugar and insulin levels,2  and  increased  vitamin D, magnesium, and inositol intake.

During pregnancy, an expectant mother’s health is crucial for both herself and her growing baby. A healthy pregnancy will help ensure the growth and well-being of the unborn child. Insufficient or excessive nutrition during pregnancy and the early years can interfere with typical growth and development, potentially leading to health issues for the child later in life.1  To improve maternal health, pregnant women are encouraged to include a variety of foods, pay special attention to adequate folic acid and Omega-3 fatty acids intake, and take steps to prevent gestational diabetes mellitus.1

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to be well-nourished, breastfeeding mothers need 340 to 400 more kilocalories per day than the amount they consumed before pregnancy.5   This increase helps to ensure that both mother and child get the right nutrients to promote good health, it also facilitates adequate milk production.

During breastfeeding, nutrients such as iodine and choline become increasingly important for the baby’s cognitive development. Iodine can be sourced from dairy products, eggs, seafood, and iodised salt, whereas choline is available in similar items like dairy, eggs, various meats, and certain seafood. Vitamin D, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids are also vital in supporting the health of the mother and the developmental needs of the baby.5   Breastfeeding mothers need to be careful about their diets. Although fish is an excellent source of protein, some types may contain high mercury levels, which could be detrimental to the baby's brain development. The FDA provides recommendations on which types of fish are safe for breastfeeding mothers to consume.5

Successfully addressing these issues can contribute positively to maternal health as well as a child’s health. The NNIA emphasises the significance of nutrition throughout life, from the womb to old age, to promote a long and healthy life.

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Can a woman’s diet affect her fertilityNutritional needs during pregnancyKeeping a healthy outlook for mothers

Can a woman’s diet
affect her fertility?

Food for thought: 
Nutritional needs during pregnancy

Keeping a healthy outlook for mothers
and babies during breastfeeding

Learn More

Learn More

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Reference list: 

 

  1. Qin, Y and  Xie, L. Nutrition and Supplements during Pregnancy: A Vital Component in Building the Health and Well-Being of Both the Mother and the Developing Baby. Nutrients.  2023 Jul 31;15(15):3395
  2. Can a woman’s diet affect her fertility? The Nestlé Nutrition Institute. 7 November 2024. [ cited 29 January 2025]. Available from:  https://www.nestlenutrition-institute.org/publication-series/can-womans-diet-affect-her-fertility
  3. Stathos, A. PCOS Diet. John Hopkins. [ cited 31 January 2025]. Available from: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/pcos-diet
  4. Food for thought: Nutritional needs during pregnancy. The Nestlé Nutrition Institute; 2022. [Cited 31 January 2025]. Available from: https://www.nestlenutrition-institute.org/infographics/food-thought-nutritional-needs-during-pregnancy
  5. CDC twenty-four seven. Saving Lives, Protecting People. Breastfeeding special circumstances. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  February 9, 2024. [cited 31 January 2025]. Available from: https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/special_circumstances/index.html