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Nutrient availability, the microbiome, and intestinal transport during pregnancy
Stuart Astbury1,2, Alison Mostyn3, Michael E Symonds2
1a Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Science, Human Nutrition, Alberta Diabetes Institute, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E1, Canada.
Summary
Pregnancy triggers gastrointestinal adaptations, including enhanced nutrient absorption and microbiome changes. Further research is needed to understand these adaptations, especially concerning maternal obesity.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Pregnancy requires significant gastrointestinal (GI) adaptations to meet fetal metabolic demands.
- These adaptations involve structural changes like villus hypertrophy and enhanced nutrient transporter function.
- Pregnancy-associated hormonal changes play a key role in regulating GI function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the adaptations of the maternal gastrointestinal tract during pregnancy.
- To explore recent research on the maternal microbiome and its role in pregnancy.
- To identify gaps in current literature and suggest future research directions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on GI and microbiome adaptations during pregnancy.
- Analysis of hormonal influences on GI function.
- Examination of the interplay between diet, microbiome, and pregnancy outcomes.
Main Results:
- GI tract undergoes villus hypertrophy and enhanced nutrient receptor capacity (glucose, fructose, leucine, calcium).
- Pregnancy induces microbiome shifts, potentially beneficial but resembling metabolic syndrome.
- Diet and microbiota can influence pregnancy complications.
Conclusions:
- GI tract adaptations are crucial for successful pregnancy.
- Maternal microbiome changes during pregnancy present new research questions, particularly with maternal obesity.
- Further investigation is needed into the complex interactions within the GI system during pregnancy.
Keywords:
adaptation gastro-intestinalegastrointestinal adaptationgrossessematernal healthmicrobiomenutrient transportnutritionpregnancysanté maternelletransport des nutrimentsMore Related Videos
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