The Whole Nine Months: Low Carb Diets and Pregnancy

It is very important to watch what you eat. You eat two things — not that you eat too much (so say goodbye to that second piece of cake), but that you eat smarter. It is the only source of nutrition for your baby, and you need the right balance of protein, vitamins, minerals, fiber and carbohydrates. That being said, many prenatal nutrition experts strongly advise against sticking to a diet low in carb. Without enough carbohydrates, your body will produce a by-product called ketones during your bloodstream, which could put your baby at risk for brain damage. But what about a low-carb diet? Aside from the risk of mental retardation, there are other aspects of a low-carb diet that may worsen pregnancy discomfort. For example, low-carb diets often have low levels of dietary fiber, making it difficult for constipation to cause many pregnant mothers to suffer from the necessary iron supplements. Also, many prenatal nutrition experts recommend taking a lot of fruit due to its rich vitamin content, but most of the things you will get from regular exercise are restricted by Atkins and South Beach due to sugar. But some doctors may recommend a low-carb diet, especially if you are overweight, suffer from gestational diabetes or low blood sugar. All three of these conditions have been shown to have a negative effect on the baby (including premature growth, birth defects, and premature menopause) so weight loss or diet control may be the best thing for your baby. If you are asked to eat a low-carb diet during pregnancy, you will probably be told to proceed with the Atkins Diet maintenance phase, or the second phase of the South Beach Diet. Here, you are allowed a controlled number of carbohydrates, usually derived from grains and fruits, while reducing white bread, white rice, and pasta. That is fine, as you are providing your baby with adequate nutrition, while taking out digested food. If you are not allowed to have low-carb, but still need to control your weight, there are other options open to you. First, eat small meals regularly. If you want a snack, instead of taking junk food or minced meat (high in calories, but very low in nutrients), take salads, fruit, nuts, and crackers. Choose cuts of weak meat, and cut down on salt and rich sauces during cooking. And when you need carbohydrates, take them in moderation. One plate of pasta is good, three servings of it with white sauce is wrong. But the most important thing to remember is that before going on any diet during pregnancy consult your gynecologist-gynecologist. He or she can determine the best course of action based on your medical history and your child's condition. Do not proceed with any weight management program without the advice and permission of your doctor. Whether it is a low carb or Zone or Mediterranean Diet, the point is that there is a definite link between prenatal nutrition and baby health. Complications can include low birth weight, birth defects, and premature birth.