Vegetarian diet observed by pregnant women. Benefits and risks for mother and fetus

Abstract

Introduction: Nutritionists emphasize that a properly composed vegetarian diet can be followed by people at dif-ferent stages of their lives. Still, many people believe that such an action can lead to the appearance health disorders. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether a vegetarian diet can be observed by pregnant women without the risk of health disorders in them or the fetuses. Material and methods: Information relating to the suitability of a vegetarian diet during pregnancy was analyzed. The results of several studies that compared the occurrence of certain factors in pregnant women following a ve-getarian diet and pregnant women consuming meat was analyzed. Results: At present, there are still few studies assessing the health status of pregnant women subsisting on a vegetarian diet and their children. These studies compared the bioavailability of nutrients, minerals and vitamins. The dietary habits of pregnant women living on a vegetarian diet are analyzed and the state of health of children born to vegetarians and women consuming meat meat is compared. Conclusions: The research results presented in the study lead to the conclusion that a properly designed vegetarian diet can be followed by pregnant women without bearing a risk of deficiencies or disorders in fetal development.