Possible Benefits and Risks of Polyphenols Supplementation During Pregnancy

Abstract The critical role of intrauterine environment on pregnancy development, newborn features and postnatal life is currently well-known. Alterations in the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus, either of maternal or placental origin, modify development and metabolic traits of the offspring with lifespan consequences. Hence, the enhancement of placental development and function, in addition with adequate maternal nutrition and lifestyle and especially the improvement of the antioxidant defense system and oxidative stress at the fetoplacental unit through maternal supplementation with antioxidants, is a main target. Polyphenols are potent antioxidants (but also metabolism-regulatory, antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory agents) present at high concentrations in natural foods and beverages. Polyphenols are perceived as beneficial for pregnancy in spite of a scarcity of objective data on both realistic benefits and potential hazards. Hence, the present review summarizes the available information in the field.