Focus on mothers to be in dietary research

Parents may soon have a helping hand in persuading their offspring to eat vegetables, thanks to Aberdeen University research.

Academics from the university’s Rowett Institute are investigating whether increasing the variety of fruits and vegetables consumed in pregnancy will make infants more likely to enjoy them in childhood.

In order to test this theory, the scientists are seeking the help of expectant mothers to take part in a study.

It will first engage with mums-to-be over 24 days, when the mother is around 30 weeks pregnant, and involves eating a variety of foods with a high fruit and

“We can visit them in their home, or they can visit us”

vegetable a day.

The second part of the study will begin once the newborn baby is ready to start weaning and will see it fed a selection of fruit and vegetable purees.

Senior research scientist Jacqueline Wallace said: “Our taste preferences develop very early in life and we suspect it may even be that our mother’s diet through pregnancy or while breastfeeding can have a huge influence on what we find palatable as children.

“We have designed the study in such a way as to try and make it as easy as possible for pregnant ladies to take part.

“For those who are interested in taking part, either we can visit them in their own home, or they can visit us here at the Rowett.”

To take part or find out more, visit the Rowett Industry website or email Jacqueline Wallace at jacqueline.wallace@ abdn.ac.uk content, once