The results suggest that foods that cause blood sugar levels to surge may be linked to neural tube defects, and further validate previous evidence that a problem in blood-sugar control might be involved in the defects. For instance, it has been suggested that a mother's obesity or diabetes could raise the risk of neural tube defects.
Scientists believe that the sudden release of large amounts of glucose that occurs after eating sugary or highly processed foods may interfere with the baby’s development in the womb, specifically the formation of the tube of bone around the spinal column.
Researchers suggest that the best approach for pregnant women is to eat a variety of foods with a focus on fruits and vegetables.
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition November, 2003;78(5):972-978
Obstetricians are ever so fond of making sure that pregnant women get their precious synthetic prenatal vitamins. The primary reason is to ensure that pregnant women are receiving enough folic acid, which has been shown to prevent neural tube birth defects. However, a study earlier this year showed that prenatal vitamins are probably unnecessary. It is far more important that pregnant women consume a healthy diet that is full of the micronutrients that will produce high-level health.
As the article above shows, protecting your developing child from birth defects is yet one more major benefit of optimizing insulin levels, and yet another reason why you will want to avoid sugar.
So if you are pregnant, or know someone who is, you would really serve her well by advising her to limit her sugar intake as much as possible. While you are at it, please also mention that she should be on at least one teaspoon of pure cod liver oil if she plans on having a smart child or avoiding premature deliveries.
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