Evolutionary Nutrition Pilot: Enhancing Fetal Growth and Brain Development

Plain-language summary

Globally, 250 million children do not reach their developmental potential and 155 million are stunted, yet few population-based studies have examined the direct effects of nutrient deficiencies on early brain development. This study will examine an evolutionary nutrition intervention during pregnancy derived from diets consumed for 99.9% of hominin history when bodies and brains were healthier. A pilot clinical trial will be conducted in the central highlands of Ecuador to compare fetal and newborn outcomes among women randomized to: 1) evolutionary nutrition package (high quality diet plus nutrition messaging); and 2) control (standard-of care supplements). Ultrasound brain measures, nutrition and morbidity data, and blood metabolomics will be assessed at 21 weeks gestational age, 37 weeks gestational stage, and postpartum. This pilot study uniquely combines the expertise of multiple disciplines - public health nutrition, radiology, neuroscience, and metabolomics - to examine the potential for improved nutrition on early growth and brain development with vital public health implications.

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