06:31 PM
Sunday 04 August 2024
Written by – Enas Fouda
Consuming high quantities of sugar and sugary drinks can elevate the risk of issues such as gestational diabetes and gestational hypertension, posing threats to both maternal and fetal health.
Daily drinks that jeopardize the health of pregnant women and their unborn children
This report examines the relationship between sugary beverages and soft drinks during pregnancy, as well as how to mitigate potential problems, according to The Sun newspaper.
A recent study has unveiled the impacts of excessive intake of these drinks on expectant mothers and their children.
The study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Nutrients, pinpointed the negative effects of high consumption of sugary drinks among pregnant women on both the mothers and their fetuses.
Conducted from April to June in 2022 and 2023, the research included 4,824 pregnant women from 16 districts in Shanghai.
Beverages were categorized into groups, including pure fruit juices, soft drinks, and sugar-sweetened milk drinks.
Approximately three-quarters of the women reported consuming sugar-sweetened beverages, with sugary milk drinks, pure fruit juices, and fresh milk tea being the most prevalent.
Gestational diabetes
Researchers conducted a follow-up study on children born within a year after the dietary survey, revealing that pregnant women who frequently consumed sugar-sweetened beverages had a greater likelihood of developing gestational diabetes.
Gestational diabetes can result in larger-than-normal babies, complications during delivery, premature births, and in rare cases, stillbirths.
Women who consumed these drinks up to three times a week were found to be 38% more likely to experience preeclampsia and 64% more likely to have gestational hypertension, both of which can be dangerous.
Premature birth
This scenario may lead to reduced blood flow to the fetus, potentially causing delayed growth, preterm birth, and harm to the mother’s organs.
Pregnant women who drank sugary beverages four times a week were 154% more likely to develop diabetes and 169% more likely to experience high blood pressure.
The researchers also discovered that consuming these drinks four times a week significantly heightened the risk of having “giant babies,” which are infants larger than expected for their gestational age.
The researchers concluded that high consumption of sugary beverages is linked to an increased occurrence of gestational diabetes and hypertension during pregnancy, alongside a higher incidence of large babies and those born at lower gestational ages.
They emphasized that effectively managing beverage intake and making sensible food choices can help reduce complications during pregnancy.
Tips for maintaining fetal health
The NHS recommends the following guidelines to promote your child’s growth and development:
Do not eat for two, even if you feel hungrier than usual. Ensure to eat a healthy breakfast daily to avoid high-fat and high-sugar snacks.
Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibers that support digestion and help prevent constipation.
Incorporate starchy foods into your diet for energy, vitamins, and fibers.
Items like bread, potatoes, cereals, rice, pasta, and oatmeal can keep you feeling full without excessive calories.
Consume protein-rich foods such as beans, fish, eggs, poultry, and nuts every day.
However, meat should be thoroughly cooked, oily fish should not exceed twice a week due to potential contaminants, and eggs should not be consumed raw or partially cooked.
Include dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt in your diet, which are good sources of calcium.
Nevertheless, it’s advisable to avoid certain types of cheese during pregnancy, particularly unpasteurized varieties.
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Effects of Sugar-Sweetened Beverages on Pregnancy Health
06:31 PM Sunday 04 August 2024
Written by – Enas Fouda
Risks Associated with Sugary Drinks During Pregnancy
Excessive consumption of sugar and sweetened drinks during pregnancy can significantly increase the risk of gestational diabetes and hypertension, which pose serious threats to both maternal and fetal health. This article explores the connection between sugar-sweetened beverages and pregnancy complications, drawing on recent research published in the journal Nutrients.
The Study: An In-Depth Analysis
A new study assessing the impact of sugary beverages on pregnant women revealed concerning findings. Conducted between April and June 2022 and 2023, the study focused on 4,824 expectant mothers across 16 districts in Shanghai. Researchers categorized beverages into groups such as:
- Pure fruit juices
- Soft drinks
- Sugar-sweetened milk drinks
Findings indicated that nearly three-quarters of participants regularly consumed sugary drinks, with sugar-sweetened milk drinks, pure fruit juices, and fresh milk tea being the most prevalent choices.
Consequences of Sugary Drink Consumption
Gestational Diabetes
The research highlighted a stark correlation between high sugar intake and gestational diabetes. Pregnant women consuming sugary drinks multiple times a week demonstrated a:
- 38% increased risk of developing preeclampsia
- 64% increased risk for gestational hypertension
- 154% increased likelihood of developing diabetes for those drinking sugary drinks four times a week
- 169% greater chance of experiencing high blood pressure
Gestational diabetes often causes babies to grow larger than expected, which can lead to complications during delivery and increase the risks of premature birth and stillbirth.
Impact on Baby’s Health
Children born to mothers who consumed high amounts of sugar-sweetened beverages also faced increased health risks, including:
- Increased likelihood of becoming “giant babies” (larger than expected for their gestational age)
- Potential delayed growth
- Higher chances of needing intensive care after birth
Health Guidelines for Expecting Mothers
To maintain both maternal and fetal health, experts recommend the following nutritional tips:
Essential Dietary Do’s
- Don’t eat for two: Maintain normal portion sizes to avoid excess weight gain.
- Start each day with a healthy breakfast to prevent cravings for high-fat and sugary snacks.
- Incorporate a variety of fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and fiber to support digestion.
- Include starchy foods like bread, potatoes, rice, and pasta for sustained energy without excessive calories.
- Consume daily protein sources such as beans, fish, eggs, and nuts, ensuring meat is well-cooked.
- Include dairy products for calcium, but avoid unpasteurized cheeses.
Practical Tips to Avoid Sugary Beverages
Here are some practical strategies to reduce sugary beverage consumption during pregnancy:
Smart Swaps:
- Replace sugary drinks with water, herbal teas, or infused water for hydration.
- Opt for unsweetened fruit juices and dilute with water to reduce sugar content.
- Limit consumption of sodas; consider sparkling water as a refreshing alternative.
Mindful Eating:
- Keep track of your beverage intake to stay within recommended limits.
- Read nutrition labels to understand sugar content in beverages.
- Preparation of meals at home allows better control over ingredients and sugar levels.
Conclusion
Overall, the evidence from recent studies strongly advocates for limiting sugar-sweetened beverages during pregnancy to foster better health outcomes for both mother and child. Maintaining balanced nutrition and making informed beverage choices can dramatically improve pregnancy experiences, promote healthy fetal development, and reduce serious health risks.
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