A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences indicates that dieting during pregnancy may increase the risk of lower IQ and behavioral issues in children later in life.
U.S. Study: Pregnancy Dieting Linked to Lower Child IQ (Popular Health Network)
A new U.S. study found that reducing key nutrients and caloric intake during the first half of pregnancy can hinder normal fetal brain development.Researchers note that while these conclusions stem from animal studies, the findings are equally applicable to women. Unhealthy diets during pregnancy inevitably cause lifelong negative impacts on the next generation.
Dr. Thomas McDonald, lead researcher, stated that the new study further underscores the critical importance of maintaining health and proper nutrition during pregnancy.Poor nutrition during pregnancy can impair the normal development of fetal organs—particularly the brain—leading to lifelong negative effects on children, such as reduced IQ and increased behavioral issues.
Researchers urge pregnant women to avoid dieting to protect maternal and fetal health, emphasizing that the risks are even greater for teenage mothers and older pregnant women.