This study investigates how dietary quality impacts vaginal microbiome composition during pregnancy in a diverse cohort in Hawai’i. Using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI-2015), researchers analyzed associations between dietary intake and the abundance of beneficial Lactobacillus species in vaginal microbiota.
Findings show that higher carbohydrate intake was associated with an increased presence of Lactobacillus crispatus, a beneficial bacteria linked to reduced pregnancy complications. Lower carbohydrate intake correlated with increased levels of Lactobacillus iners and anaerobic species, which are linked to higher infection risks. The study suggests that improving diet quality may enhance vaginal microbiota health during pregnancy, potentially reducing adverse outcomes.
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