Related Experiment Videos
Isocaloric balanced protein supplementation in pregnancy
1Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, 1020 Pine Avenue West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada, H3A 1A2. mikek@epid.lan.mcgill.ca
The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews
|May 5, 2000
Summary
Providing pregnant women with isocaloric protein supplements did not benefit pregnancy outcomes. This intervention may decrease maternal weight gain and increase the risk of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) births.
Area of Science:
- Maternal and Fetal Health
- Nutritional Science
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Nutritional supplementation during pregnancy is common.
- The role of protein supplementation, specifically isocaloric protein supplements, requires further investigation.
- Understanding the impact on maternal weight and fetal development is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of isocaloric protein supplementation in pregnant women.
- To assess the impact on gestational weight gain and pregnancy outcomes.
- To determine the safety and efficacy of such supplements.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of clinical trials was conducted.
- Data were extracted from published reports and trialists.
- Included trials focused on isocaloric protein supplementation with balanced protein content.
Main Results:
- Three trials with 966 women were analyzed.
- Isocaloric protein supplementation was associated with reduced maternal weight gain and mean birth weight.
- An increased risk of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) births was observed, with no effect on gestational age or preterm birth.
Conclusions:
- Isocaloric protein supplementation alone is unlikely to benefit pregnant women or their infants.
- Further research is needed to assess potential effects on fetal/neonatal mortality and maternal health.
- Current evidence suggests potential adverse effects, warranting caution.