A Western-style diet during pregnancy may increase the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders like autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, according to a new study led by researchers at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark.
Although the study does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, it reinforces existing evidence that maternal diet can significantly impact a child’s health and development, according to Science Alert.
Key Findings from the Study
Researchers analyzed data from 61,237 mothers and their children, comparing maternal diets during pregnancy with the neurodevelopmental health of their children. The study found that even minor shifts toward a Western diet—high in fat, sugar, and refined foods, and low in fish, vegetables, and fruits—significantly increased the likelihood of ADHD in children. One of the study’s cohorts also showed a link between Western diets and autism risk.
- Increased Risk: The stronger a mother’s adherence to a Western diet, the higher the risk of her child developing ADHD or ASD.
- Critical Time Frame: The first and second trimesters were the most sensitive periods for brain development, indicating that maternal diet during these stages is particularly important.
- Biological Markers: The team identified blood metabolites linked to maternal diets, suggesting that factors such as inflammation and cell damage could influence fetal brain development.
Credibility of Study
The research included four cohorts, with one primary group of 508 mother-child pairs where children were clinically assessed for neurodevelopmental disorders at 10 years of age. In the other cohorts, data was collected through self-reporting and national registries, yet all showed consistent results.
To ensure accuracy, researchers accounted for genetic risk factors and the children’s own diets, reinforcing the validity of the findings.
“Our analysis not only confirms a strong link between diet and ADHD risk but also identifies specific nutrients and foods that could serve as the foundation for improved dietary guidelines and preventative strategies,” says David Horner, a food scientist at the University of Copenhagen.
Implications for Maternal Nutrition
While the study highlights a concerning association, it also offers hope: even small dietary changes toward a healthier diet while pregnant can positively influence a child’s brain health.
- Balanced Diet Matters: A diet rich in fish, vegetables, and fruits may reduce the risk of ADHD and ASD.
- Need for Better Guidelines: The study underscores the importance of clearer nutritional recommendations for expectant mothers.
While ASD and ADHD are increasingly well-understood, they still present lifelong challenges. This research adds to the growing evidence that early intervention through maternal nutrition could be a key factor in reducing neurodevelopmental risks.
With more studies emphasizing the link between diet and child health, experts advocate for stronger dietary guidelines to support healthier pregnancies and better long-term outcomes for children.
The full study is published in Nature Metabolism.