Amal Yadak1, Oqba Al-Kuran2
, Sabika Allehdan3
, Eman Badran4
and Reema Tayyem5*
1 School of Agriculture, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
2 School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
3 Department of Biology, College of Science, University of Bahrain, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.
4 Department of Pediatrics, Neonatal-Perinatal Division, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
5Department of Human Nutrition, College of Health Science, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
Corresponding Author E-mail: reema.tayyem@qu.edu.qa
This review examines the latest evidence on dietary habits, nutrient intake, and lifestyle factors influencing pregnancy outcomes. It emphasizes the critical role of adhering to recommended nutrient intake, maintaining regular physical activity, adopting healthy dietary habits, and achieving appropriate gestational weight gain in promoting favorable maternal and neonatal health outcomes. The analysis reveals that deficiencies in essential nutrients, such as folate, iron, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, significantly impact pregnancy, increasing the risk of adverse outcomes like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, low birth weight, and preterm delivery. Additionally, lifestyle factors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, and physical activity levels, are explored for their contributions to maternal and fetal health. Despite advancements in research, gaps persist in understanding the specific effects of certain nutrient deficiencies and dietary patterns. This review underscores the importance of routine nutritional assessments, personalized dietary counseling, and targeted public health interventions to improve pregnancy outcomes on a global scale.
Dietary Habits; Dietary Patterns; Lifestyle; Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes; Nutrients; Pregnancy