A diet rich in fibre and vegetable protein during gestation and lactation shapes maternal immunity, intestinal microbiota and lipid metabolism.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Establishing optimal maternal nutritional habits during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and early life is crucial for the health and welfare of both the mother and the child. However, research is lacking to understand the associated mechanisms linking maternal diet to health outcomes. The objective of this study was to assess the potential influence of two distinct diets, consumed during gestation and lactation, on the microbiota composition, immunity and lipid metabolism of Lewis dams.

Methods

Diet 1 (D1, Mediterranean diet-like) was characterized by a high fibre content, vegetable protein, and fish oil; whereas Diet 2 (D2, slightly Western diet-like) was enriched with animal protein and lard. Fecal samples were collected weekly throughout the nutritional intervention.

SUBMITTER: Rio-Aige K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12212120 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature