Evolutionary Nutrition Pilot: Enhancing Fetal Growth and Brain Development

Launched by WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE · Feb 6, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The Evolutionary Nutrition Pilot study is looking into how a specific type of nutrition during pregnancy can help improve fetal growth and brain development. The researchers believe that diets similar to those our ancestors ate for most of human history could lead to better outcomes for babies. They are comparing two groups of pregnant women in Ecuador: one group will receive an "evolutionary nutrition package" that includes a high-quality diet and helpful nutrition information, while the other group will receive standard supplements. The study will track important health measures through ultrasounds and blood tests at different stages of the pregnancy and after the baby is born.

To participate in this study, women need to be healthy, in their first trimester of a singleton pregnancy (meaning they are expecting one baby). They cannot be under 18 years old, have certain chronic health conditions, be having twins or triplets, or have specific allergies. The study is currently active but not recruiting new participants. Overall, this research aims to understand how better nutrition during pregnancy can have a significant positive impact on the growth and brain development of newborns, which could have important benefits for public health.

Gender

FEMALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • healthy
• • in their first trimester
• • carrying a singleton pregnancy
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • less than 18 years of age
• • have a chronic health condition (HIV, TB, epilepsy, etc.)
• • have a multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, etc.)
• • intend to move away from the study area
• • have known allergies to eggs or fish
• • have a blood pressure greater than 160/100