Nutrition, Physical Activity and Other Health Aspects Before and During Pregnancy - Recommendations by the Nationwide "Healthy Start Network" (Netzwerk Gesund ins Leben) 2026.

The recommendations for action for the life phases of pregnancy and preconception of the nationwide Healthy Start Network (German Netzwerk Gesund ins Leben ) were revised and agreed onby an interdisciplinary scientific advisory board on the basis of current systematic reviews, meta-analyses, guidelines and other relevant literature. The 2026 version replaces the 2018 recommendations. The recommendations for action serve as evidence-based, application-oriented support for professionals for counselling before and during pregnancy and are supported by all relevant professional societies, professional associations and other institutions in Germany. They cover the topics of diversity-sensitive counselling, body weight before conception and weight development during pregnancy, energy and nutrient requirements as well as diet and beverages, including vegetarian/vegan nutrition and nutrition during pregnancy to prevent allergies in children. It also includes recommendations on the consumption of caffeine, alcohol, nicotine and, for the first time, cannabis. In addition, the nutrient supplements folic acid, iodine, iron, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and vitamin D are addressed. Special attention is paid to protection against foodborne infections, especially listeriosis and toxoplasmosis, and plant-based substitutes for animal-based foods is also taken into account. Another key topic is recommendations on physical activity before and during pregnancy. Aspects of oral and dental health, immunisation and the use of medicines before and during pregnancy as well as breastfeeding preparation are also covered.