Lifestyle-based and psychological interventions during pregnancy and risk of obesity and obesity-associated metabolic complications in the offspring: A scoping review

Introduction

Obesity is a major global health challenge. Maternal health issues may increase the risk for obesity and associated conditions in the offspring, emphasizing the importance of successful interventions during pregnancy. However, systematic data are lacking.

Material and Methods

A systematic literature review of the effectiveness of maternal interventions in preventing childhood obesity and associated metabolic comorbidities was conducted. The search was conducted by two independent reviewers using PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and reference screening for relevant studies published between 1990 and 2023. Interventions were included that were lifestyle-based, but those with psychological components were also eligible for inclusion. Only studies with data on offspring anthropometrics and/or metabolic comorbidities after age ≥2 years were included.

Results

Altogether 22 studies met the inclusion criteria, 14 with physical activity and dietary components, six with one or the other of these, and two with other interventions. Of the studies combining diet and physical activity, eight reported reductions in gestational weight gain and two less gestational diabetes. One study reported lower offspring body mass index in compliant participants and another lower resting pulse rate. Of the studies with only a dietary or physical activity component or other interventions, four reported lower gestational weight gain. One of these reported lower weight and skinfold thickness in the offspring and another lower fasting glucose.

Conclusions

A limited number of studies have evaluated offspring outcomes beyond the neonatal period. Lifestyle-based interventions including psychological components are particularly scarce. The research conducted demonstrated only a minor impact on childhood anthropometric and metabolic outcomes; however, the interpretation of these findings is hampered by a considerable risk of bias, largely due to missing offspring data.