Mothers Pass Problems With Obesity to Children

Weight Loss Studies Suggest Women Shed Extra Pounds Before Pregnancy

Oct 28, 2009

Weight loss studies indicate that by monitoring their weight gain in pregnancy, women can reduce their children's risk for obesity.

Women who are pregnant and overweight are more likely to have children who later develop their own problems with obesity, according to studies conducted by researchers in New York and Quebec. This childhood obesity research initiative was organized by Dr. John Kral of SUNY Downstate Medical Centre. Researchers from Quebec's Laval Hospital also contributed to the study.

This study comes as childhood obesity statistics in the United States continue to climb to epidemic proportions. According to the National Institutes of Health, the number of obese children tripled during the 25 year period between 1984 and 2009. Those who are hardest hit include African American and Mexican American children.

Mother's Weight Gain and Pregnancy May Influence Childhood and Obesity

One of the most significant findings the researchers uncovered was evidence that suggests a woman's weight gain in pregnancy may influence her unborn child's life long weight patterns. Researchers say this goes far beyond genetic influences. They theorize that a woman who is overweight and pregnant sends signals in the womb that cause changes in the brain of her unborn child, causing the child's body to increase its production of cells that store fat.

The researchers also analyzed obese women who had bypass surgery to see if the procedure affected the suspected link between childhood and obesity. According to these weight loss studies, babies who were born after their mothers had the surgery were significantly less likely to be obese. These children also had lower levels of fat in their blood and had a lower risk for diabetes.

According to Dr. Kral, the procedure breaks the link between obesity and children because it lowers the levels of sugar and fat in a woman's body and limits the digestion and absorption of food. As a result, the unborn child will receive fewer calories.

Reducing Childhood Obesity Statistics

Due to these findings from the childhood obesity research initiative, physicians say it's best for obese women to lose weight before becoming pregnant. The Institute of Medicine recommends that obese women who are already pregnant closely monitor their weight. They should limit the amount of weight they gain to 11-20 pounds. Once the baby is born, work on shedding the extra pounds right away in preparation for the next baby.

According to Mayo Clinic, parents should get involved in helping their children maintain a healthy weight, whether they are at risk for obesity or not. They can do this by involving the entire family in fitness and nutrition. Create exercise routines that everyone will enjoy such as a family bike ride or playing tag at a park. Set a good example by eating nutritious meals. Regular check-ups are needed to monitor their growth and weight.

For more information on preventing obesity, see the article titled Studies Reveal a Link Between Obesity and Cancer. It offers information on exercise and certain foods that can help with weight management.

The copyright of the article Mothers Pass Problems With Obesity to Children in Weight Loss is owned by Jennifer Graham. Permission to republish Mothers Pass Problems With Obesity to Children in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.