A recent study published in the Nutrients Journal examined the association between the dietary intake of pregnant individuals and sleep duration and quality. The study found that lower quality and shorter duration of sleep among pregnant women have been linked to adverse outcomes such as preterm birth, an increased risk of gestational diabetes, longer labor, higher gestational weight gain, and a higher probability of Cesarean delivery. Dietary requirements of pregnant women also undergo significant changes, especially during the last two trimesters, to support the growth and development of the fetus.
While various published guidelines recommend specific adjustments to the intake of proteins, calories, saturated fats, and beverages sweetened with sugar, supplementation with folate, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, choline, Vitamin D, iodine, and calcium are also recommended. The review highlights the need for consistency in the measured outcomes, exposures, and methodology across studies that examine associations between maternal diet and sleep quality during pregnancy.
Although some association was observed between dietary intake of fats and carbohydrates and sleep duration and quality, the heterogeneity across the studies examining these associations made it difficult for the researchers to conduct a meta-analysis or draw strong conclusions. Nonetheless, the study emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy to promote healthy sleep for both mother and fetus.
