Author: Alex Wilkinson - Reporter
Women who eat badly during pregnancy may be harming their babies’ brains.
Scientists have done new studies on baboons, which have a number of genetic similarities to humans. They tested the difference between pregnant baboons who were fed a moderate diet, and those who were allowed to eat what they wanted.
They found that when the mothers-to-be ate badly it had a damaging impact on their babies’ brain health. Neurons and gene connections were broken. This means there is a “critical time window” at the start of pregnancy when eating badly can really have a bad impact on the health of babies.
Despite the old saying “I’m eating for two”, your body doesn’t actually need any more calories than normal during the first six months of pregnancy. Your body becomes more efficient when you are pregnant, and makes even better use of the energy that you get from food. For the last three months of pregnancy you need about 300 calories extra per day. This is equivalent to one slice of wholemeal toast with baked beans, or one slice of cheese on toast.
Eating a diet packed with nutrients is essential during pregnancy. Doctors recommend eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, starchy foods, and foods that are rich in protein. Vitamin supplements may help you to ensure that you get the right nutrients during this period. Folic acid and Vitamin D are particularly important parts of a healthy diet during pregnancy. It is also best not to have too much caffeine when pregnant. If you are pregnant, speak to your doctor about how you can maintain a healthy diet.
Women who eat badly during pregnancy may be harming their babies’ brains.Scientists have done new studies on baboons, which have a number of genetic similarities to humans. They tested the difference between pregnant baboons who were fed a moderate diet, and those who were allowed to eat what they wanted.
They found that when the mothers-to-be ate badly it had a damaging impact on their babies’ brain health. Neurons and gene connections were broken. This means there is a “critical time window” at the start of pregnancy when eating badly can really have a bad impact on the health of babies.
Despite the old saying “I’m eating for two”, your body doesn’t actually need any more calories than normal during the first six months of pregnancy. Your body becomes more efficient when you are pregnant, and makes even better use of the energy that you get from food. For the last three months of pregnancy you need about 300 calories extra per day. This is equivalent to one slice of wholemeal toast with baked beans, or one slice of cheese on toast.
Eating a diet packed with nutrients is essential during pregnancy. Doctors recommend eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, starchy foods, and foods that are rich in protein. Vitamin supplements may help you to ensure that you get the right nutrients during this period. Folic acid and Vitamin D are particularly important parts of a healthy diet during pregnancy. It is also best not to have too much caffeine when pregnant. If you are pregnant, speak to your doctor about how you can maintain a healthy diet.
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