The Impact of Nutrient Intake on Pregnancy Outcomes: Narrative Review

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.