The National WIC Evaluation: evaluation of the Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children. V. Longitudinal study of pregnant women

Am J Clin Nutr. 1988 Aug;48(2 Suppl):439-83. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/48.2.439.

Abstract

The major associations with the Special Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in pregnancy were increased intake of protein, iron, calcium, and vitamin C (four of five targeted nutrients) and of energy, magnesium, phosphorus, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6, and vitamin B-12; reversal of low weight gain in early pregnancy; smaller fat stores in late pregnancy; reduced frequency of premature rupture of the uterine membranes; larger infant head circumference with no effect on birth weight and length; increased birth weight and head circumference with better program quality; and lower fetal mortality of appreciable but not significant magnitude. Incremental energy intake was comparable to that in most small-scale supplementation trials. There was no evidence of effects on frequency of prenatal care, use of alcohol or tobacco, the intention to breast-feed, or the rate of breast-feeding. Maternal alcohol intake was associated with depressed infant head circumference, over and above effects on birth weight and length.

MeSH terms

  • Anthropometry
  • Birth Weight
  • Body Weight
  • Breast Feeding
  • Diet
  • Female
  • Food Services*
  • Gestational Age
  • Health Education
  • Hemoglobins / analysis
  • Humans
  • Infant Mortality
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Obstetric Labor Complications
  • Poverty
  • Pregnancy* / blood
  • Public Assistance*
  • Risk Factors
  • Skinfold Thickness
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • United States

Substances

  • Hemoglobins