Evidence for maternal diet-mediated effects on the offspring microbiome and immunity: Implications for public health initiatives

Diets rich in saturated fats have become a staple globally. 50% of women of childbearing age in the US are obese or overweight, with diet being a significant contributor. There is increasing evidence of the impact of maternal high fat diet on the offspring microbiome. Alterations of the neonatal microbiome have been shown to be associated with multiple morbidities, including the development of necrotizing enterocolitis, atopy, asthma, metabolic dysfunction and hypertension among others. This review provides an overview of the recent studies and mechanisms being examined on how maternal diet can alter the immune response and microbiome in offspring and the implications for directed public health initiatives for women of childbearing age.