Impact of prenatal multiple micronutrient supplement on survival and growth during infancy

2 min read / 11.11.2019

Nutrition & Disease Management

Impact of prenatal multiple micronutrient supplement on survival and growth during infancy

Multiple micronutrient deficiencies might contribute to low birth weight. UNICEF/WHO/United Nations University have formulated a multiple micronutrient supplement (UNIMMAP) for pregnant and lactating women.

Improved linear fetal growth with continuation into early life and enhanced postnatal growth were 2 mechanisms that mediated the effect of the prenatal UNIMMAP on infant nutritional status. 

Background:
- UNIMMAP contains one recommended daily allowance (RDA) of 15 micronutrients.
Method:
1294 US pregnant women were randomly assigned to take either UNIMMAP or iron and folic acid supplement (IFA).
- The growth of infants was assessed monthly up to 12 months and at 30 months.
Key findings:
Compared to the IFA group, the UNIMMAP resulted in infants with:
- A 27% reduction in the rate of stunting over the first 12 months
- A significant higher length-for-age z score of 0.13 over the first 12 months.
- A trend towards a higher weight-for-length and head circumference-for-age by the end of 12 months.
- A higher weight-for-height z score of 0.20 by the age of 30 months.
- A 14% reduction in reported episodes of fever.
- No difference in mortality or morbidity.
Conclusion:
UNIMMAP supplementation in pregnant mothers improved fetal growth with continuation into early life.

WYE-EM-008-JAN-14

Reference

Roberfroid D, Huybregts L, Lanou H, Ouedraogo L, Henry MC, Meda N, Kolsteren P. Impact of prenatal multiple micronutrients on survival and growth during infancy: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Clin
Nutr. 2012 Apr;95(4):916-924. Epub 2012 Feb 29. Link to PubMed