A historical analysis of dietary characteristics of pregnant women in relation to obstetrical outcome

Objective. To complete analysis of data from the Miami Valley Project (1967--1971), observing dietary characteristics during pregnancy and obstetric outcomes.; Subjects. 101 pregnant women (51% Black, 29% Appalachian, 14% White, and 6% American Indian) attending the Cincinnati General Hospital Obstetrics Clinic from 1970 to 1971.; Methods. Dietary, demographic and medical information was collected by 24-hour recall, interview using a script, and from medical charts after delivery. Dietary analysis was performed using the Minnesota Nutrition Data System software and the appropriate historical standards of the time. Multivariate regressions were used to evaluate the effects of maternal diet on pregnancy or infant outcomes.; Results. Among 101 pregnancies, the rates of adverse outcomes were lower than 2002 national rates, except for congenital defects (7.9% versus 3.0%). Protein intake inversely predicted gestational weight gain, infant birthweight and head circumference.; Conclusion. This study completes analysis of the Miami Valley Project, describing a Midwest pregnant population.