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Before infants are born, they depend on their mother to provide the nutrients necessary to grow and develop, such as iron, folic acid, iodine and other vitamins and minerals. Pregnant people also rely on good nutrition to support their own health. In addition to essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, there are other natural components found in fruits and vegetables, called phytochemicals, that may support maternal and fetal health during pregnancy.

While we know more about the role of phytochemicals in adult health, we know surprisingly little about phytochemical nutrition during pregnancy. Ïã¸Û6ºÏ¿ª½±½á¹û, in collaboration with the USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, is conducting cutting-edge nutrition research on a group of phytochemicals, called carotenoids, during pregnancy.

What is the Maternal Carotenoids Across Pregnancy Study (MCAPS)?

The study will determine if and why levels of carotenoids in the body change across the course of pregnancy. Understanding carotenoid nutrition during pregnancy will help us to understand nutrition needs of expectant mothers and their infants.  

Who is eligible?

We are seeking both pregnant people in the first trimester of pregnancy (up to the end of the 13th week of pregnancy) and non-pregnant women to participate in a comparison group. Eligible participants are 18-40 years of age, speak, read, and understand English, and meet other BMI and health criteria.

Your Study Involvement:

• 4 study visits to the Texas Medical Center during pregnancy and 1 visit after birth
• Body composition measurements, optical skin measurements, and vision testing
• Blood draws
• Food and mood surveys
• Option to enroll infant after birth

You Will Receive:

• Up to $350 in pre-paid credit cards
• Free on-site parking
• Refreshments

Your participation will improve the understanding of the role of nutrition during pregnancy and will support the future health of pregnant people and infants!

Enrollment is now closed for this study. For questions about this study please contact us at (713) 798-0517 or MCAPStudy@bcm.edu.