Big Way Of Life

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) has welcomed the publication of a new report by the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition on the influence of maternal, fetal and child nutrition on the development of chronic disease in later life.

Research shows that maternal nutrition has a direct impact on fetal development. A mother's poor diet increases the likelihood of her baby having low birth weight, increasing its risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes later in life.

It is crucial that the baby has a normal birth weight. At the other end of the scale, higher birth weight babies are at an increased risk of developing breast cancer.

The SACN states that to improve health outcomes for a mother and her baby, a life-course approach is needed, starting when the mother is young, preferably during her infancy. This includes tackling the health inequalities which determine future attitudes and behaviours. Other dietary measures such as folic acid and vitamin D supplementation and fruit and vegetable consumption will help her to achieve better reproductive health. Weight management during adolescence and early adulthood will better prepare women for pregnancy.

RCOG President Tony Falconer said: "This timely report dovetails with the Coalition Government's plans to focus on public health in the NHS.

"We are extremely concerned by the adverse effects of poor nutrition and the increase in obesity in the maternal population. This leads to long-term morbidity for both mother and child. We endorse the call to ensure that women are informed about the importance of healthy pre-pregnancy diet and nutrition from a young age and the recommendation to support women so they make good lifestyle choices throughout their lives."