Studies show eating a high-fiber diet offers benefits throughout a lifetime, but new research reveals it's especially important during pregnancy. Scientists from Monash University in Australia working with mice found that a mother's high-fiber diet during pregnancy can provide her baby's heart added protection from cardiovascular disease.

This information that confirms a mother's diet impacts the health of her children was recently published in the journal Circulation Research.

"Dietary fiber, which is found in foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, is well-known for its health benefits," said lead researcher Professor Francine Marques, from the Monash University School of Biological Sciences. "Our research shows that its impact extends beyond the mother, and can shape the development of her child's heart."

Scientists found the mice offspring had lower levels of inflammation in the heart and decreased cardiac fibrosis (scarring). They also had healthier hearts with improved function when exposed to high blood pressure.

Both the mother and her offspring benefited from a healthier gut from a diverse gut microbiome.

"Our work also sheds light on how fiber exerts its protective effects across generations," Professor Marques said. "Fiber promotes the production of beneficial molecules called short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the gut. These SCFAs travel through the mother's bloodstream and cross the placenta during development, where they can influence gene activity in the heart, leading to healthier heart development."

Although the study was conducted on mice, researchers are confident the findings will also have significant implications for human health.

"Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, and this research suggests that a simple dietary change during pregnancy could have lifelong benefits for children," Professor Marques said. "Our work adds to the growing body of evidence highlighting the importance of a healthy diet during pregnancy.

"Expectant mothers are encouraged to discuss their diet with their health care providers to ensure they are getting enough fiber to support their own health and the health of their babies."

Researchers plan to continue studying the intersection of maternal diet, gut health and cardiovascular disease in hopes of creating practical recommendations for pregnant women to optimize their children's heart health.

Click here to read more in the journal Circulation Research.