Influence of Maternal Fish Intake on the Anthropometric Indices of Children in the Western Amazon.

Mônica Cunha,Rejane Marques,José Dórea

doi:10.3390/nu10091146

Abstract

We studied trends in fish intake among pregnant women living in the Madeira River Basin in Rondônia State, Brazil, to investigate the influence of maternal fish intake on anthropometric indices of children followed up to 5 years. Maternal fish intake was assessed using hair mercury concentrations of mothers and children at delivery and 6, 24, and 59 months. Data analysis was performed using a linear mixed-effect model. Mothers were predominantly young, had low incomes and limited schooling, and breastfed for >6 months. Only 1.9% of children had low birth weight. Anthropometric indices in approximately 80% of the study population showed Z-score values ranging from ≥−2 to ≤1. The influence of maternal fish intake on anthropometric indices, including height-to-age (H/A), weight-to-age (W/A), and weight-to-height (W/H) were not statistically significant after model adjustments. However, higher income and larger birth weight had a positive influence on H/A and W/A, whereas W/H gain was favored by higher maternal educational status and breastfeeding duration. Other variables (hemoglobin concentration and maternal age) had a positive significant influence on anthropometric indices. Maternal fish intake (or its attendant MeHg exposure) did not affect children growth. Nevertheless, it is advisable to avoid mercury-contaminated fish during pregnancy and childhood.

Highlights

The promotion of adequate child growth is considered a global priority, especially in vulnerable populations
Maternal fish intake during pregnancy is known for its benefit in neurodevelopment [3], intrauterine growth [4], birth weight, and a diminished risk of premature birth [5]
A recent study has shown that unfavorable socio-economic conditions associated with poor feeding and nutritional practices in the Northern region of Brazil are still determinants of poor anthropometric indices among young children [18]. Given that both the environment and eating habits of mothers may determine the health of their children throughout life, this study aimed to investigate the influence of maternal fish consumption on the anthropometric indices height-to-age (H/A), weight-to-age (W/A), and weight-to-height (W/H)

Summary

Introduction

The promotion of adequate child growth is considered a global priority, especially in vulnerable populations. Evidence suggests that from conception to early life, good nutrition and a healthy environment can influence optimal growth, as well as ensure gains in human capital and long-term health [1]. Early life is a critical phase of human development that is sensitive to environmentally caused pathologies and nutritional stimuli that may influence health outcomes later in life [2]. The impact of the environment and maternal nutrition on child growth and development has been previously studied. Maternal fish intake during pregnancy is known for its benefit in neurodevelopment [3], intrauterine growth [4], birth weight, and a diminished risk of premature birth [5]. Maternal fish consumption may expose the developing fetus to environmental pollutants [6], which may disturb the endocrine system and thereby affect weight gain [7]

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