Pregnancy Loss Of Control Over Eating A Longitu 2018 The American Journal O(1)

This large study followed over 11,000 pregnant women and their children to understand how losing control over eating during pregnancy affects both mothers and their babies, both immediately and years later. Loss of control over eating means feeling unable to stop eating or control what or how much you eat, even when you want to. The researchers found this experience was surprisingly common, affecting more than one in three pregnant women.

Women who experienced frequent loss of control over eating during pregnancy showed several concerning patterns. They consumed more calories overall and ate more snacks, while getting less of important vitamins like B-6, vitamin A, and vitamin C. Those with the most frequent episodes also had lower intake of folate and vitamin B-1, nutrients that are crucial for healthy pregnancy. These women gained an average of about 8 pounds more during pregnancy than women who didn't experience loss of control over eating.

The effects extended beyond pregnancy itself. Babies born to mothers with loss of control eating had higher birth weights, and this pattern continued as the children grew. When researchers checked on these children at age 15, they found that teenagers whose mothers had frequent loss of control eating during pregnancy were twice as likely to be overweight or obese compared to children of mothers who didn't experience this issue.

This research highlights how eating behaviors during pregnancy can have lasting effects on both maternal and child health outcomes. In clinical practice, this suggests that screening for and addressing eating control issues during pregnancy could be an important strategy for promoting long-term metabolic health for both mothers and their children, potentially preventing childhood obesity and its associated health risks.