A new study has found a surprising link between what pregnant women eat and their babies’ emotional well-being. Research published in Scientific Reports suggests that consuming high-glycemic foods during the third trimester can lead to increased negative emotions in infants, such as sadness and fear.
The study analyzed diets of pregnant women in their second and third trimesters, tracking glycemic index, insulin resistance, and body fat levels. The emotional responses of their babies were then assessed at six months old using caregiver reports and behavioral observations.
Key findings include:
* Higher dietary glycemic index in the third trimester is linked to increased infant sadness
* Increased insulin resistance in the second trimester is associated with higher levels of infant fear
* Maternal body fat did not appear to impact infant temperament, while dietary quality played a bigger role
The study suggests that choosing nutrient-dense, whole foods can support better emotional health in newborns. Expectant mothers may want to swap out processed carbs and sugary treats for healthier alternatives.
Smart swaps for a healthier pregnancy diet include:
* Skipping white bread, pastries, and sugary cereals
* Swapping for whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, and fresh fruit
* Avoiding processed snacks like chips and crackers
* Replacing them with healthy options like Greek yogurt, hummus with veggies, or avocado toast.
While more research is needed, this study’s findings suggest that small dietary changes in the third trimester can lead to big emotional benefits for your baby.
Source: https://hauteliving.com/hautebeauty/670480/doctors-warn-these-pregnancy-foods-may-impact-your-babys-mental-health