Macronutrients and fibre requirements during pregnancy

Abstract

In this chapter, the impact of varying intakes of protein, carbohydrate and lipids, which are the key nutrients that contribute to calorie intake, is examined. Fibre is also an important food component that needs to be considered. The maternal macronutrient profile can influence embryonic and fetal development. For instance, both low and excessively high protein intakes during pregnancy are associated with restricted growth, increased adiposity, and impaired glucose tolerance. High-fat maternal diets can significantly increase the susceptibility to diet-induced obesity and percentage total body fat in offspring, although types of fats need to be considered, as intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids is important for fetal development. The type and content of carbohydrate (high- vs low-glycaemic sources) in the maternal diet influences blood glucose concentration, which has a direct effect on fetal glucose levels and metabolism.