Abstract
The association between FI, social determinants, and nutritional outcomes for pregnant women are analyzed. A systematic review was conducted through a search of articles in five electronic databases. Social determinants (race, education, participation in social programs) and nutritional status (pre-gestational BMI, gestational weight gain, anemia) were analyzed in relation to the FI situation. For each article, the frequency of food insecurity was collected in order to calculate the summary measure, prevalence ratio (PR). 26 articles were selected. An elevated occurrence of FI was associated with black pregnant women (PR: 1.83, 95% CI 1.08-3.10), participation in social protection programs (PR = 1.43, 1.02-2.01), and with low education levels on the part of pregnant women (PR = 2.73, 1.68-4.43). FI increased the chances of being overweight (PR = 1.57, 95% CI = 1.29-1.91) and obese (PR = 1.47, 95% CI = 1.15-1.87) in pregnant women, as well as excessive weight gain (PR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.10-1.82) and inadequate weight gain (PR = 1.47; 95% CI = 1.09-1.97) during pregnancy. Anemia was not associated with FI. Social inequities are associated with food and nutritional insecurity in pregnant women.
Highlights
Food insecurity (FI) is a significant risk factor that can influence the physical health of both the pregnant woman and her child, directly compromising the nutritional state and serum profile of micronutrients, such as iron[1,2]
An elevated occurrence of FI was associated with black pregnant women (PR: 1.83, 95% CI 1.08-3.10), participation in social protection programs (PR = 1.43, 1.02-2.01), and with low education levels on the part of pregnant women (PR = 2.73, 1.68-4.43)
A systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out, following PRISMA standards[13], in order to answer the following key question: “What is the association between food insecurity and social and nutritional determinants in pregnant women, when compared against women who have food security?” To answer this question, the scientific literature related to the interface between food and nutritional security (FNS) and gestational health was reviewed and the protocol for this systematic review was registered in PROSPERO
Summary
Food insecurity (FI) is a significant risk factor that can influence the physical health of both the pregnant woman and her child, directly compromising the nutritional state and serum profile of micronutrients, such as iron[1,2]. It may trigger a series of stressful events in the family environment due to the difficulty in obtaining food, provoking a deterioration in maternal mental health and consequent development of anxiety and depression, and leading to negative repercussions with regard to childcare[3]. Serious FI, in addition to these aspects, is marked by the presence of hunger, where someone may spend an entire day without eating due to lack of money with which to purchase food[5]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
