Diet, Advanced Maternal Age, and Neonatal Outcomes: Results from the GESTAGE Study

Abstract

Maternal nutrition during pregnancy plays a pivotal role in influencing both maternal and fetal health, impacting neonatal anthropometric outcomes and long-term disease susceptibility. An advanced maternal age (AMA ≥ 35 years) has been linked to increased risks of obstetric complications and adverse neonatal outcomes, yet its specific nutritional profile remains underexplored. Background/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the nutrient and polyphenol intakes of women at an AMA compared to those of a younger control group and to investigate associations with neonatal anthropometric measures. Methods: A cohort of 200 pregnant women, stratified into AMA and control groups, completed a food frequency questionnaire during the second trimester. Neonatal anthropometric data were collected at delivery. Results: Intakes of fiber, zinc, copper, selenium, vitamins E, B1, B3 and folate were lower in the AMA group in comparison with the control values. Negative correlations were found between fiber, vitamin A and vitamin E and the head circumference of the newborn, with fiber being identified as a potential predictor of this parameter. Conclusions: Despite some limitations, such as the fact that the FFQ was completed only once during pregnancy and the cross-sectional design of the study, the findings highlight notable nutritional deficiencies among AMA women, which may influence neonatal outcomes such as head circumference. These results underscore the need for nutritional guidelines and supplementation strategies tailored to pregnant women over 35 years of age.