ABSTRACT

The development of the embryo directly affects the probability of different health risk outcomes. Impeding the development of the embryo greatly increases the risk of neonatal death and developmental malformations. One of the biggest causes of premature births is maternal infections. These infections, if left untreated, can give rise to a number of health problems. Nutraceuticals play a major role in enhancing the maternal immune response when facing an infection. Different types of nutraceuticals help boost the body’s immune system. Demographically, women in developing countries have a higher risk of infections, malnutrition, and preterm births. The growth of the foetal immune system is essential for the baby’s immune response. In order to develop the immune system properly it depends on two things: genetics and the environment. Thus, in areas of poverty where malnutrition levels among people are elevated, it is essential to monitor the daily nutritional values. For pregnant women it is essential to monitor the daily nutritional values since the embryo is directly affected. With the help of nutraceuticals, it is possible to ensure the daily dietary intake is maximized even when food tends to be scarce. Thus, nutraceuticals for maternal infections play a major role in protecting the developing foetus and improving the maternal immune response.