Bharti Jayshankar
October 24, 2024: In a Finnish population-based cohort study, researchers have found that mothers with a history of eating disorders or abnormal body mass index (BMI) are at a heightened risk of having children with neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders.
Research indicates that obesity during pregnancy is linked to numerous adverse outcomes, including complications such as spontaneous abortion, congenital defects, and metabolic disorders in offspring
The Finnish comprehensive analysis involved nearly 400,000 mothers and approximately 650,000 offspring, marking one of the largest studies of its kind. The study, led by Dr. Ida Nilsson from Karolinska Hospital in Stockholm, revealed that non-specified maternal eating disorders were particularly associated with childhood sleep disorders and social functioning issues along with tic disorders. For mothers with severe pre-pregnancy obesity, the most notable effect was seen in relation to intellectual disabilities in their children
Maternal eating disorders
Strong associations were found between maternal anorexia nervosa and childhood sleep disorders. The presence of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa exacerbates the risks, potentially leading to significant health complications for both mother and child, including gestational diabetes and preterm birth.
Children born to mothers with eating disorders faced increased risks for feeding disturbances and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Estimates suggest that at least 5 per cent of pregnant women experience an eating disorder, though this figure may be an underrepresentation due to the stigma and secrecy surrounding these conditions. The distribution of eating disorders among pregnant women is as follows: anorexia nervosa affects approximately 0.1 to 0.3 per cent, bulimia nervosa around 0.2 per cent, binge eating disorder (BED) approximately 4.8 per cent, and purging disorder about 0.1 per cent
Obesity risks during pregnancy
Women with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 kg/m² or greater are at increased risk of spontaneous abortion, congenital defects, and complications during labour.
Excessive gestational weight gain, which occurs in two-thirds of pregnancies, can lead to metabolic disorders in the mother and increase the likelihood of obesity in the offspring.
Recent studies suggest that women with obesity should avoid consuming extra calories during the second and third trimesters, as their energy needs can typically be met by mobilizing existing maternal fat stores.
Notably, studies have shown a correlation between maternal BMI and the likelihood of mental health disorders in children, suggesting that the intergenerational transmission of health risks is significant
Dr. Nilsson, the study author, emphasized the importance of these findings for maternity care practices, advocating for improved nutritional support for pregnant women to mitigate these risks potentially.
The evidence reveals that poor maternal nutrition not only affects immediate health but also correlates with a higher likelihood of mental health challenges in children, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive prenatal care that addresses both physical and mental health.
Wholesome support that includes behavioral health, obstetric, medical, and nutritional care is crucial for managing the health of both mother and child during pregnancy.
Limitations
The researchers acknowledged several limitations within their study, such as the lack of paternal data may affect the comprehensiveness of the findings. The follow-up period for assessing psychiatric diagnoses was relatively short, concluding at age 17. And, genetic factors could account for a significant portion of the risk associated with eating disorders
This study not only reinforces existing literature on the repercussions of maternal eating disorders but also opens avenues for further exploration into preventive strategies that could enhance child health outcomes.
