How does a past or present eating disorder affect my unborn child?
Asked by anonymous on Jan 11, 2009
in Eating Disorders
I think I might be pregnant but I can't know for sure as my periods have been irregular over the last two years due to an ED. But now I want to know how that might affect my unborn child...
Answer
A past eating disorder is linked to psychological problems more often than to obstetrical difficulties. You need to gain 25 – 30 lb for your unborn child, assuming a normal preconception weight of BMI 19 – 25 (which yours was). During the first trimester, you need only to gain a few pounds, but after week 13, the goal is 0.8 – 1 lb a week until delivery. Note that a current eating disorder associated with failure to gain weight is related to a range of problems, including miscarriage, still birth, low birth weight and special needs infants. Visit My Pyramid for Pregnancy for advice about what to eat to help you and your baby be healthy.
What is interesterified fat?
Interesterification is a food processing term. It is one of three techniques used to modify fats: hydrogenation (to make trans fat)... Read more