A pregnant woman’s diet is of utmost importance for the nourishment of a baby. No doubt there. So does that mean, women following a vegan diet are at risk of having premature babies? According to this report, there is a high likelihood of that happening.
It says that according to researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, too little animal protein leads to a deficiency of the B12 vitamin, which in turn leads to a 21% increase in her chances of preterm delivery. But, according to Dr Sunil K Agrawal, Neonatologist, Fortis Hospital Mohali, India, while few recent studies have shown an increased risk of premature delivery, more evidence corroborating the same is needed as of today. However, he adds, "Pregnant women following a vegan diet are more likely to be deficient in Vitamin B12 levels. Deficiency of this vitamin along with folic acid deficiency is strongly associated with birth defects."
Again, that doesn't entirely support the 'vegan diet leading to premature births' theory. However, it definitely makes sense to have a balanced and wholesome diet comprising vitamins, minerals and proteins for a healthy baby. But then, what are the possible reasons for premature birth? According to Dr Agrawal, here are some reasons that could possibly lead to having premature babies:
- Having a previous premature birth
- Pregnancy with twins, triplets or other multiples
- An interval of fewer than six months between pregnancies
- Conceiving through in vitro fertilisation (IVF)
- Problems with the uterus, cervix or placenta
- Smoking cigarettes or using illicit drugs
- Poor nutrition
- Not gaining enough weight during pregnancy
- Some infections, particularly of the amniotic fluid and lower genital tract
- Some chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes
- Being underweight or overweight before pregnancy
- Stressful life events, such as the death of a loved one or domestic violence
- Multiple miscarriages or abortions
- Physical injury or trauma
From this list, while a lot of medical conditions and certain stressful life events may not be in the control of the pregnant lady, what she can have a say in is her diet. Be it a vegan diet, a vegetarian diet, or an all comprising diet, as long as it is healthy, in moderation and balanced, the mother-to-be need not worry about the health of her baby.
Of course, premature babies do have a higher risk of problems as they grow more slowly than babies born at full-term. They also have a higher risk of certain long-term health problems, including autism, intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, lung issues, etc. But babies born after seven months usually need a short stay in the hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU.) Babies born earlier than that face much bigger risks. They will need specialised care in the NICU.
Even if it is a premature baby, most often than not, they grow into healthy individuals. They may need extra care in the beginning, (what also matter is how prematurely were they born), however, proper care and timely medical intervention, ensure they live a healthy, happy and normal life.
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