The authors, including a team from Edinburgh University, say children born to overweight mothers are at greater risk of health problems in later life.
They say every pregnant woman should have access to dieticians and psychologists to help protect the health of their future children.
During the three-year project several pieces of research were consulted.
In one of the most extensive studies to question whether the health of mothers-to-be can have long-term consequences on their offspring, scientists pulled together several pieces of research across Europe.
One key study, involving 13,000 individuals, revealed that babies born to overweight mothers are more likely to suffer heart disease or strokes or develop type 2 diabetes in later life.
Another analysis from Edinburgh University found that obese women eat a diet richer in saturated fats and poorer in vitamins and minerals during their pregnancy compared to slim women.
In early work, including animal studies, scientists found the placenta of females who ate a high fat diet offered less protection to the foetus from the stress hormone, cortisol.
Offspring were more likely to be small and to suffer mood disorders in later life.
Overall project leader Dr Patricia Iozzo, from the National Research Council, Pisa, Italy, said: "Attention needs to be devoted to the prevention of obesity and becoming overweight among young girls, representing tomorrow's mothers."
Dr Iozzo says the period at the end of pregnancy is particularly important. Her work suggests babies' metabolic health - including the fats and sugars in their blood - may be worse if mothers put on unhealthy amounts of weight at this time.
"I feel the message is a positive one. Mothers can do a lot during pregnancy to look after the future health of their children.
"They must under no circumstances stop eating though. They should ensure they have a balanced diet and make sure they are physically active.
"And I think every mother should have access to a team of health workers during pregnancy - including not just midwives and obstetricians but psychologists and dietitians too."
Louise Silverton, director for midwifery at the Royal College of Midwives, said:"Women should try to be an ideal weight before they become pregnant and, if not, should follow midwifery advice to manage their weight while eating a good diet rich in micronutrients.
"After birth, women need support to develop healthy patterns of eating and exercise.
"For women who are overweight or obese they need support to access weight-loss services to ensure that they are an ideal weight before they embark on their next pregnancy.
The ongoing Dorian project is funded by the European Commission.

Atkinson, who can also play in midfield, has made 20 appearances for the Magpies since signing in July 2015, following his release by West Brom.
The 22-year-old has yet to play in a League Two game this season, but has featured twice in cup competitions.
He could make his debut for the Heed when they travel to face struggling Guiseley on 25 October.
Meanwhile, on-loan Carlisle midfielder Russell Penn, 30, has extended his loan stay with Gateshead until 26 December.

BBC Radio Solent reports Eisner has already informed manager Paul Cook of his interest in creating the role.
The former Walt Disney chief executive has made an offer to buy 100% of the League Two champions.
Cook is believed to want a firm input over any potential candidate to ensure minimal disruption to his set-up.
Portsmouth won the League Two title on goal difference from Plymouth Argyle on the final day of the season.
Cook won the title for a second time in his managerial career after leading Chesterfield to promotion in 2014.
Eisner's offer of £5.67m for Portsmouth plus an additional investment of £10m in equity will be voted on by club shareholders and members of the Pompey Supporters' Trust (PST), who currently own 48%.

Police said the 41-year-old former Strictly Come Dancing contestant, from Virginia Water in Surrey, was arrested in Eton, Berkshire, on Saturday.
Ms Gallacher, who works for Sky Sports, has been bailed to appear at Slough Magistrates' Court on 4 September.
Thames Valley Police said she was charged with one count of "driving a motor vehicle when alcohol level was above the legal limit".

He was taken to the Royal Sussex County Hospital following the incident just before 06:00 BST on Saturday. He is reported to be in a stable condition.
Sussex Police said the incident in Preston Street appeared to be linked to the collapse of a section of railing surrounding the balcony.
The one-way street had to be closed to allow for investigations.
A major European obesity investigation has called for urgent action to prevent obesity in women of child-bearing age.
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