Fetal programming as a trend in modern medicine: Magnesium deficiency is the focus

In recent years, numerous studies have been carried out to identify the role of trace elements in pathology and clinical practice. Particular attention is paid to the role of maternal magnesium reserves during pregnancy, as a key factor in intrauterine development of the fetus and in postnatal life, as well as the consequences of maternal magnesium deficiency during pregnancy on health status at birth, in childhood and adulthood. To date, research has shown an association between magnesium deficiency and several conditions during pregnancy associated with high mortality and morbidity, such as gestational diabetes, preterm birth, preeclampsia, and small for gestational age infants or intrauterine growth restriction. Low maternal magnesium stores during pregnancy should be included among the many factors underlying fetal programming of disease in adults.

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