Dietary patterns are associated with gestational weight gain and nutrient adequacy during pregnancy: the effects of healthy diet in pregnancy

BACKGROUND: Gestational weight gain (GWG) is associated with complications for both offspring and pregnant women, and GWG is closely related to maternal dietary intake and nutritional habits. The aim of the present study was to evaluate and analyze the association between maternal dietary patterns and nutrient intake, considering the GWG in pregnant women. METHODS: This is a retrospective cross-sectional study with a descriptive-correlational methodology whose sample consists of 306 pregnant women from the city of Melilla (Spain). The total GWG (kg) was obtained by subtracting pre-pregnancy weight from weight before delivery. Dietary intake was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and a 24-hour recall. RESULTS: Confounder-adjusted regression models were established to show associations between dietary patterns and GWG and associations between dietary patterns and nutrient adequacy. A negative association was found between the Mediterranean pattern and the GWG (adjusted β= -0.008, 95% CI: -0.076, 0.039) and a direct correlation between the western pattern and the GWG (adjusted β = 0.086, 95% CI: -0.075, -0.082) was found. CONCLUSIONS: The Mediterranean dietary pattern showed moderate evidence of meeting an adequate intake of dietary fiber and vitamins B12, D, and E (p < 0.05). This pattern is associated with adequate GWG during pregnancy and better nutrient adequacy. Given the relevance of food in this physiological stage, promoting healthy eating based on a Mediterranean dietary pattern through health education is considered essential.