Multi-nutrient supplementation 'linked to higher birth weight'

12 Feb 2008

Expectant mothers who take a multivitamin and mineral supplement are more likely to give birth to larger, heavier babies than those who only take iron and folic acid, new research suggests.

A study conducted by Dr David Osrin from UCL Centre for International Health and Development, Institute of Child Health and colleagues from Mother and Infant Research Activities in Nepal found that the birth weight of infants born to mothers given a daily supplement of 15 vitamins and minerals was on average 77g heavier than that of babies of women who were supplemented with iron and folic acid.

Previous studies have shown that birth weight not only indicates the nutritional health of the mother but also relates to the growth, development and long-term health of the child.

The researchers reported: "In a poor population, the effects of maternal multiple micronutrient supplementation on the fetus persisted into childhood, with increases in both weight and body size.

"These increases were small, however, since those exposed to micronutrients had an average of two per cent higher weight than controls. The public-health implications of changes in weight and blood pressure need to be clarified through follow-up."

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