In a groundbreaking study conducted at the University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, researchers have uncovered significant correlations between maternal health during pregnancy and the motor development of children at ages 5-6. The findings highlight that a healthy diet in early pregnancy positively influences motor skills, while higher maternal body fat mass adversely affects these developmental outcomes. Notably, the prevalence of developmental coordination disorder among children whose mothers had overweight or obesity during pregnancy was found to be significantly higher than average.

Prenatal Nutrition: A Key Factor for Enhanced Motor Skills

The research underscores the importance of prenatal nutrition in supporting the child's motor development. Mothers who maintained a balanced diet rich in diverse foods like vegetables, fruits, rye bread, and fish were observed to have children with better motor skills, particularly in gross motor abilities. Fish consumption during pregnancy, which provides essential nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, was also linked to improved fine and gross motor skills in children.

Specifically, the study found that a healthier maternal diet in early pregnancy correlated with enhanced motor development in children at ages 5-6. This includes better performance in activities requiring balance and coordination. The inclusion of nutrient-rich foods like fish, which are high in unsaturated fats and vitamins, appears to play a crucial role in fetal brain development. Researchers suggest that targeted nutritional guidance before and during pregnancy could benefit both mothers and their children by promoting healthier weight management and supporting future motor development.

Mother's Body Composition: Implications for Child's Coordination

Another critical finding from the study is the adverse effect of higher maternal body fat mass on the child's motor development. Children whose mothers had a greater body fat percentage were more likely to exhibit signs of developmental coordination disorder by ages 5-6. The precise measurement of body composition using advanced techniques revealed this association, unlike broader measures based on BMI alone.

According to the research, the higher amount of body fat during pregnancy seems to negatively impact the child's motor development. The study did not find any significant link between gestational diabetes and motor skills, suggesting that body composition plays a more pivotal role. Lead researcher Lotta Saros emphasized that addressing maternal health issues, particularly body fat levels, could mitigate risks to the child's motor development. This insight calls for comprehensive prenatal care strategies focusing on maternal health to ensure optimal outcomes for children's neurodevelopment.