The effect of maternal food consumption habits to the neonatal outcomes, blood biochemical parameters and nutrient elements: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Optimal nutrition during prenatal, antenatal and postnatal period is one of the most desired conditions for the healthy birth of new generations and proper care of mother. The aim is to evaluate the effect of each maternal food consumption habit and supplementary intakes to the neonatal outcomes, blood biochemical parameters, macronutrient and micronutrient composition of body and address sufficient healthcare during antenatal care in a middle-income region. A group of 77 women at 3rd months postpartum were asked to complete the 43 items dietary questionnaire. Among all the women, 44 of them completed the questionnaire properly. The results of the questionnaire were evaluated by a nutrient database program (BeBiS software program) designed to evaluate nutrient elements of the human body. The blood biochemical parameters of all the patients were analyzed. The socio-demographic features, neonatal outcomes and maternal-neonatal anthropometric measurements were noted. The mean infant’s 3rd month height was statistically significantly higher in walnut consumed group 3-4 days a week (mean =66.57 ± 2.07 cm; CI: 95%) than in the non-consumed group (63.25 ± 2.08 cm; CI: 95%) (p =0.021). The mean weight gain was 10.94 ± 5.16 kg (CI 95%) in walnut non-consumed group and 18.43 ± 6.50 kg (CI 95%) in consumed group 3-4 days a week which is statistically significantly different (p =0.012). Iodine level was significantly statistically higher in the egg consumed group 5-7 days a week than the non-consumed group as secondary outcome (2.80 ± 0.24; 2.15 ± 0.64 respectively, p=0.022). The walnut consumption was related to the greater weight gain during pregnancy and the increase in infant’s height. Although, optimal weight gain is essential to maintain physiological well-being during pregnancy, we should consider the positive effect of walnuts on infant’s development.