Impact of maternal diet on microbiota and health during pregnancy: a systematic review and correlational meta-analysis
Abstract
Background: Pregnancy complications like gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and obesity are rising. Emerging evidence suggests dietary strategies targeting maternal microbiota, such as increased fiber or polyphenols, may help manage these conditions.
Objectives: This study aimed to 1) synthesize existing evidence on the relationship between maternal diet and the gut microbiota, with a focus on its potential link to gestational outcomes, and 2) provide insights based on the available literature to inform future pregnancy guidelines.
Methods: This systematic review included observational and interventional studies on pregnant females assessing maternal diet and gut microbiota. Searches were conducted in PubMed and Web of Science up to July 2025. Risk of bias was assessed using appraisal tool for cross-sectional studies, Risk Of Bias In Nonrandomized Studies - of Interventions, and Risk Of Bias 2 tools. Narrative synthesis and a correlational meta-analysis stratified findings by trimester and obstetric condition.
Results: Across 29 studies involving 3077 pregnant females, high-fiber and vegetarian diets were consistently associated with increased abundance of taxa such as Roseburia spp. and Bifidobacterium spp., alongside more favorable metabolic markers. In contrast, high-fat and Westernized diets were frequently linked to reduced microbial diversity and increased proinflammatory taxa including Collinsella and members of the…
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