Based on the introduction of the article “Eating Disorders During Gestation: Implications for Mother’s Health, Fetal Outcomes, and Epigenetic Changes,” maternal nutrition can significantly impact both maternal and fetal health in several ways:

• Maternal Malnutrition: Disordered eating behaviors that lead to malnutrition can deprive the mother of essential nutrients needed for her own health and the developing fetus. This can lead to complications like anemia, fatigue, and impaired immune function in the mother.
• Fetal Growth and Development: The fetus relies on the mother for nutrients for growth and development of organs, tissues, and the brain. Insufficient nutrients can lead to problems such as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), low birth weight, and potential developmental delays.
• Increased Risk of Birth Defects: Poor maternal nutrition during critical stages of fetal development can increase the risk of birth defects, such as neural tube defects (e.g., spina bifida) and congenital heart malformations.
• Long-Term Health of Offspring: Epigenetic changes caused by maternal malnutrition during pregnancy may have long-term consequences for the offspring’s health. These changes can affect gene expression and increase the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease later in life.

The article highlights the importance of balanced nutrition during pregnancy to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby.