Effects of the Mediterranean diet on pregnancy and fetal development
Official title: Influence of Mediterranean Dietary Habits on Pregnancy and Foetus Development: the Role of Epigenetics and Inflammation
Run by Neuromed IRCCS · NCT05403632 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether following the Mediterranean diet during pregnancy can improve outcomes for both mothers and their babies.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 50 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 2000 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Neuromed IRCCS Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Agropoli, SA) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 1, 2023 |
| Main results expected | April 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | April 9, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05403632 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are pregnant women in their first trimester who plan to deliver at the participating clinical units.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with known chromosomal or congenital malformations in the fetus, or those with a history of inflammatory diseases or other specified health conditions may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates how adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MeD) during pregnancy influences pregnancy outcomes and fetal development. The MeD is characterized by high consumption of plant foods, fish, and healthy fats, which may have anti-inflammatory properties and impact epigenetic mechanisms. The study aims to build a birth cohort to analyze the relationship between maternal diet and the health of newborns, focusing on potential long-term benefits for both mothers and children. By examining these connections, the research seeks to address public health concerns related to maternal nutrition and fetal growth.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into how a Mediterranean diet during pregnancy may enhance fetal development and improve pregnancy outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While there is growing interest in the effects of maternal nutrition on pregnancy outcomes, this specific focus on the Mediterranean diet is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in similar studies.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * pregnant women attending the Units of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Neuromed Clinical Research Network * women within the first trimester of pregnancy * women who express the willing to deliver at the aforementioned operating units Exclusion Criteria: * pregnancy with foetuses with known chromosomal or congenital malformation * history of inflammatory disease * use of immunosuppressant drugs * pre-existing diabetes or hypertension * conception by heterologous artificial insemination * malabsorptive bariatric surgery * eating disorders
Where it's running
-
Istituto Clinico Mediterranea
Agropoli, Sa, Italy Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Licia Iacoviello, MD — IRCCS Neuromed
- Study coordinator: Licia Iacoviello, MD
- Email: licia.iacoviello@moli-sani.org
- Phone: +39 3485108779
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.