Conclusion and implications for
practice
In this study, participants knew that diet and
exercise were a part of a healthy lifestyle.
Nonetheless, limited understanding of the
meaning of a healthy diet and of recommended
exercise during pregnancy was common. This
lack of dietary and lifestyle knowledge may
suggest inadequate access to health information
during antenatal care. Findings highlight the
need for maternity care providers and health
professionals to give clear and consistent diet
and exercise advice early in pregnancy. This
information should be provided in a simple