European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine

Purpose: The purpose of this prospective observational study was to assess the effect of the nutritional status of pregnant mothers on the birth weight of their new-borns. Material and methods: This study was a prospective observational study of 500 pregnant women registering at an antenatal clinic in GMH Rewa from January 2021 to June 2022. The study participants were followed up at their 2nd visit between 24th and 28th weeks and at their 3rd visit at the time of delivery. Anthropometric, dietary, and haematological parameters were obtained at each visit. Results: Among the 203 women, 140 (68.93%) gave birth to babies whose weight was appropriate for gestational age (AGA) babies, and 63 (31.03%) gave birth to babies whose weight was less than expected for gestational age (SGA) babies. The present study has shown an association between low maternal BMI, low weight gain, inadequate IFA intake, inadequate nutrient intake, inadequate protein intake, inadequate calorie intake, low haemoglobin count during pregnancy, and low birth weight babies. Conclusion: This study emphasizes the significance of a healthy diet and nutrition throughout pregnancy because they directly and favourably affect the new-born’s weight and overall health. Birth weight is statistically significant and positively correlated with maternal iron and folic acid supplementation, particularly blood iron levels. The potential benefits of nutrition and iron-folic acid supplementation, as well as the identification of their inadequacies, can support low-cost treatments intended to lower the incidence of SGA. The study suggests providing proper awareness and health education about pregnancy, timely ANC visits, nutrition, and institutional delivery for a better foetal outcome.