CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY ON THE IMPACT OF MATERNAL NUTRITION ON NEONATAL HEALTH

Abstract

Background: Maternal nutrition plays a critical role in neonatal outcomes, influencing
various aspects of fetal development and birth outcomes. This study explores the association
between maternal dietary habits and the health status of neonates at birth. Methods: A crosssectional study was conducted involving 300 pregnant women recruited from a tertiary care hospital. Data on maternal diet were collected through structured interviews during the third trimester. Neonatal health outcomes, including birth weight, Apgar score were recorded at birth. Results: Preliminary analysis indicate a significant correlation between high maternal
intake of micronutrients and macronutrients and positive neonatal outcomes such as higher
birth weights and improved Apgar scores. Conversely, a diet low in micronutrients and
macronutrients during pregnancy was associated with lower birth weights and reduced
neonatal apgar score. Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of adequate
maternal nutrition during pregnancy as a determinant of better neonatal health outcomes.
Public health policies aimed at improving prenatal nutritional advice and support can potentially enhance neonatal health profiles. Keywords: Maternal Nutrition, Neonatal Health,
Dietary Impact