Obesity is a problem of epidemic proportions around the globe and has reached alarming levels in the Arab Gulf countries. It is now recognized that intergenerational effects of poor diet on children’s health are perpetuated directly by obesity and diabetes in pregnant women. In addition, parental eating habits can contribute to the development of unhealthy diets in children. However, there are no studies focusing on expectant parents and their families in United Arab Emirates (UAE). This study, supported and translated into Arabic by the Al Qasimi Foundation, uncovers several main themes influencing eating habits, and this paper presents strategies to positively influence family healthy eating habits in the region.
