Lordelo

Researchers are studying pregnant women with obesity, hypertension, andor diabetes to see if education about the Mediterranean Diet can improve diet adherence and affect heart health, blood sugar, blood pressure, weight recovery after pregnancy, and gut bacteria. This study is a pilot randomized controlled trial aiming to find ways to improve maternal and infant health during and after pregnancy. Participants are divided into two groups one receives usual nutritional care through the Portuguese National Health System, while the other group receives this standard care plus a special Mediterranean Diet education. This education includes a face-to-face session with a dietitian during the third trimester, a 13-page manual, and five monthly newsletters after childbirth. These interventions aim to support dietary changes starting late in pregnancy and continuing through the postpartum period. Women in the study will be monitored at four time points during the third trimester and at one, six, and twelve months after giving birth. Researchers will measure how closely participants follow the Mediterranean Diet along with heart function via echocardiography, blood pressure, blood sugar control, weight changes, and gut microbiota. The study will also observe how the diet might impact infant feeding practices. This follow-up helps assess the interventions effectiveness and potential benefits for mothers and babies.