A new study suggests the incidence of autism could be linked to a new factor, a mother's weight during pregnancy. Researchers say the risk for autism can be elevated even before a child is born. Not because of genetics, but rather, the birth mother's weight.
Dr. Irva Hertz-Picciotto, said, "Her biochemistry really has a profound impact on development, including brain development." "If you are planning a pregnancy, you might want to think about losing weight, getting your exercise routine in order, and controlling your blood sugar."
That's because a new study in pediatrics looked at a thousand mothers and their children. They found women, who are obese during pregnancy, are sixty percent more likely to have a child with autism. They are also two times more likely to have a child with a developmental delay. Having type-two diabetes, a condition often linked to obesity, also increases the risk.
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