There is no doubt that the protection of women during pregnancy and lactation must be one of the major priorities of health systems and social policies. The effect of women’s nutritional status on pregnancy outcomes is particularly strong, and adequate maternal nutrition is closely related to the survival and well-being of babies and children. However, not all women are mothers, and their nutritional and health needs go far beyond motherhood and reproduction. Women of all ages in developing countries face elevated risks of nutritional deficiencies. Therefore much more attention should be paid to the nutritional needs.
