A mother’s diet during pregnancy plays a crucial role in fetal development, yet its impact on neurodevelopmental disorders remains underexplored. A recent study highlights that a Western diet during pregnancy significantly increases the risk of autism and ADHD in infants.
Researchers analyzed data from over 60,000 mother-child pairs from the University of Copenhagen and the Copenhagen Prospective Studies on Asthma in Childhood (COPSAC) at the Danish Paediatric Asthma Centre, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital. They found that even slight deviations towards a Western diet led to a 66% higher risk of ADHD and a 122% higher risk of autism in children.
According to senior author Professor Morten Arendt Rasmussen from the University of Copenhagen, “When comparing across cohorts, we observed the strongest associations in the first and second trimesters, suggesting that brain development during this period is particularly sensitive to maternal nutritional influences.”
What is the Western Diet?
The Western diet, often called the Standard American Diet (SAD), is characterized by high consumption of processed foods, red meat, refined grains, sugary beverages, and unhealthy fats. Though convenient and widely available, this diet is associated with obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic health issues.
Key concerns of the Western diet include:
- High Sugar and Refined Carbs: Increases insulin resistance and risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Unhealthy Fats: Saturated and trans fats from fast foods contribute to inflammation and cardiovascular diseases.
- Low Fiber Intake: Lack of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains exacerbates digestive problems and chronic conditions.
In contrast, traditional diets emphasizing fresh, natural ingredients provide essential micronutrients and antioxidants, boosting immunity and overall health. Experts recommend adopting a balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber during pregnancy to reduce the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders and promote long-term well-being.
Read also: https://newsonthego.in/6-things-you-should-know-about-grey-salt-who-should-consume-it/
