Ketogenic Diet May Mitigate Behavioral Issues Stemming From Prenatal Stress, Study Suggests
AMSTERDAM, Netherlands – A new study indicates a ketogenic diet administered after weaning may lessen behavioral changes in offspring exposed to prenatal stress, offering a potential preventative approach to mental health challenges. Researchers found that a ketogenic diet-high in fat,very low in carbohydrates-helped modulate the effects of stress experienced by mothers during pregnancy in their young. The findings, published recently, raise the possibility of nutritional interventions early in life to prevent the full development of pathological conditions.
The research addresses a growing concern about the long-term impact of maternal stress on child development. Prenatal stress is linked to increased risks of behavioral problems, anxiety, and depression in children. “Could one day harness the therapeutic properties of nutritional interventions early in life to prevent full-blown pathological conditions from manifesting,” posits Dr. Marchesin, a researcher involved in the study. This work suggests calorie intake, specifically the type of calories consumed, may play a crucial role in buffering thes effects, given the established connection between obesity and mental health.
the study demonstrated that a ketogenic diet following weaning could modulate behavioral changes resulting from prenatal stress. Associate Professor Aniko Korosi of the University of Amsterdam, who was not involved in the research, commented, “The presented study shows in an interesting way that risks of behavioral changes due to prenatal stress can be modulated with a ketogenic diet after weaning. It will be interesting to further investigate which biological processes are involved in these beneficial effects and whether such effects are sex-specific.”
However, experts caution against implementing such a diet without professional medical guidance. While ketogenic diets are established treatments for certain conditions like epilepsy in children, carbohydrates are vital for growth, development, and energy. “Always consult with a doctor before putting such a diet on a baby,” medical experts warn.
Kek mama is not a doctor. If you have any medical questions or concerns, always contact a professional.
further details on managing diets with children can be found here: https://www.kekmama.nl/artikel/persoonlijk/op-dieet-als-je-kinderen-hebt-zo-doe-je-dat.
Source: EurekAlert.
