Maternal return to healthy weight status postpartum can prevent future overweight and obesity.
14
The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans forms the basis for nutrition counseling for postpartum women, and RDNs and dietetic technicians, registered, can assist women in achieving their prepregnancy weight.
21
Outside of weight status, recent research has shown that diet quality, dietary intake, and overall nutritional status can affect the risk of postpartum depression. An association among n-3 fatty acids, serotonin transporter genotype, and postpartum depression has been identified.
38
Low-income women with depressive symptoms and life stressors are at risk for low-prenatal diet quality, so intensive dietary intervention before and during pregnancy may be needed
to promote optimal health.
39
The risk of maternal and infant mortality and pregnancy-related complications can be reduced with increased access to quality interconception care.