Nutritional Factors Associated With Maternal Depression Among Pregnant Women in Urban Low-Income Settlements in Nairobi, Kenya

The Effect of Pumpkin Seed Biscuits and Moringa Capsules on (Malondialdehyde) Levels and Birth Outcomes of Pregnant Women

BACKGROUND: Maternal and infant mortality is a global health problem, the direct cause of which is malnutrition. Dietary supplements and vegetables are mandatory to support the nutritional needs of pregnant women. Moringa oleifera and pumpkin seeds contain many nutrients, and the price is relatively cheap; therefore, they are very good for consumption by pregnant women. The aim of the study was to find literature on the effect of pumpkin seed biscuits and moringa capsules on the effects of malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and birth outcomes of pregnant women. AIM: The objective of the study was to review journals related to the effect of pumpkin seed biscuits and moringa capsules on (MDA) levels and birth outcomes of pregnant women. METHODS: Study literature by collecting relevant journal data based on PubMed, ScienceDirect, and ProQuest. RESULTS: supplementary food that is cheap and easily available to pregnant women by giving pumpkin seeds and moringa leaf extract has an impact on improving nutritional status and preventing such as low birth weight (LBW). Moreover, the result found that food ingredients from pumpkin seeds and moringa have high nutritional value and are very beneficial for pregnant and lactating women. CONCLUSION: The screened articles with inclusion and exclusion criteria support and recommend additional nutrients such as Moringa oleifera and pumpkin seeds to pregnant women. These two foods directly contribute to the prevention of MDA which causes stress, preeclampsia, LBW babies, severe anemia, babies growth and development, as well as maternal and babies mortality.