The Hidden Dangers of Pregnancy and Overeating

Many expectant mothers proudly proclaim that they are eating for two. While many individuals may think that overeating in pregnancy is a normal occurrence, this simply isn't true. Women who consume too many calories while pregnant are not only harming themselves, but can be posing serious risks to their unborn child. We've heard it all of our lives, too much of anything is no good for you, and this is especially true when it comes to pregnant women of all ages.

Type of Caloric Intake

Scientific studies suggest that mothers with a high fat diet are at an even more elevated risk for passing this problem onto their child. According to a publication by The Rockerfeller University, a high fat diet is believed to be responsible for producing additional neurons in the brain of the growing fetus; which may play a significant role in the eating habits of the child at a later date. This study, which has been supported by the National Institute of Health indicates that the child will be programmed to overeat and obesity may become a problem. In addition to this, the effects of the poor diet can contribute to immediate concerns, such as the infant being born with a high presence of triglycerides within their bloodstream.

Disease Prevention

There are other health complications besides obesity that the offspring may face if the mother overeats during her pregnancy. One critical aspect of this is the prevention of disease and increased risks for certain conditions. While physical conditions are likely, the mother's diet may also contribute to mental health issues. Some reports blame "over nutrition" or overeating in pregnancy to some of these ailments. Infants whose mothers overate during pregnancy are at higher risks for cancer, stroke, diabetes and other cardiovascular diseases when in comparison of their peers whose mothers demonstrated healthier eating habits. Mental illness such as depression and schizophrenia, were more prevalent among these individuals too. The effects of maternal diet are far reaching for such statistics, well into adulthood.

Recommended Guidelines

Proper nutrition is necessary for the growth and health needs of your baby and can help reduce his or her risks for a lifetime. In most cases, your physician will recommend consuming an additional 300 to 400 calories a day to support these needs. The source of these extra calories should come from fruits, vegetables and other sources of protein. However, those with special concerns such as diabetes and other health conditions should always consult with a physician regarding these needs. Women who have a problem managing their eating habits may find the services of a nutritionist helpful during this time.

Bibliography

A Pregnant Mother's Diet May Turn the Genes Around. The New York Times. Cornell University. 7, October 2003. Viewed 17, August 2010. http://people.ccmr.cornell.edu/~ginsparg/Phys446-546/fa03/nyt07oct03epi.html

Eating During Pregnancy. Kid's Health. Nemours Foundation. 1995-2010. Viewed 17, August 2010. http://kidshealth.org/parent/nutrition_fit/nutrition/eating_pregnancy.html#

Fatty Diet During Pregnancy Produces New Neurons In Fetal Brain. Rockerfeller University. 10, November 2008. Viewed 17, August 2010. http://newswire.rockefeller.edu/index.php?page=engine&id=850