In this episode of Milestones in Maternal Nutrition, Professor Andrew Prentice with Professor Kathryn Dewey talks about the role of protein-energy supplementation during pregnancy and its potential to improve birth outcomes among nutritionally vulnerable populations. Professor Dewey explains how maternal undernutrition contributes to low birth weight, small-for-gestational-age birth and preterm delivery. This discussion explores the scientific evidence behind balanced energy-protein (BEP) supplementation, including historical trials, evolving WHO recommendations and the complexities surrounding optimal protein composition and maternal metabolic health. They also explored emerging approaches such as small-quantity lipid-based nutrient supplements (SQLNS), targeted nutritional strategies, and the practical challenges of implementing maternal supplementation programs at scale in low-resource settings.
Author(s):
Andrew Prentice, Kathryn Dewey
