Food assistance program during pregnancy to prevent excess weight gain

This research study is testing whether giving pregnant women extra funds to buy healthy foods—along with nutrition counseling and help signing up for government food assistance programs—can help prevent excessive weight gain during pregnancy. Half of the participants will receive standard nutrition advice and food program referrals, while the other half will also receive $1,000 to $3,000 (depending on household size) specifically for buying healthy foods. The study involves 1,440 pregnant women across multiple medical centers.

Many pregnant women gain too much weight during pregnancy, which can lead to complications like gestational diabetes and high blood pressure. This trial is testing whether financial support for healthy foods—removing a key barrier for many women—can help prevent these serious health problems for both mother and baby.