Researchers at Imperial College, London based their findings on the results of the magnetic resonance scanning of 105 babies born at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.  The babies were scanned to measure the fat in their liver cells, the amount of fat in their whole bodies and where the fat is stored.

Impact on baby

The research revealed that the higher the BMI of the expectant Mum, the higher the level of fat cells in baby’s liver and total fat level is likely to be.  Study leader Professor Neena Modi said: “There is growing evidence that a baby’s development before birth has a major impact on their health in later life. This means that the prevention of obesity needs to begin in the womb.”

Mindful Mum Nutritionist Charlotte Stirling-Reid offers this advice to mums:

“It is important not just to access parents after they have given birth but to communicate the importance of eating well from a young age so that when the time comes and women decide they want to have a baby they are ready and prepared for it in every way possible. A BMI of 30kg/m² and over (obese) is linked with many health problems for mother and baby, from an increased risk of having a miscarriage to birth defects as well as this recent finding.

The best way to avoid these risks is to lose weight BEFORE you become pregnant. It is important to remember that weight loss is not a quick fix. Faddy diets, skipping meals and cutting out whole food groups can result in your health and even your weight being worse in the long run and certainly won’t improve the chances of you having a baby.”

Source:
Nursing Times, High maternal BMI linked to fat in babies, 23 August 2011

Further Information:
Pediatric Research, The Influence of Maternal Body Mass Index, Aug 2011

Image:
Women with high BMI