According to the author, obese mothers may also be putting their child at risk for iron deficiency anemia and thus possible brain development issues. Iron deficiency for infants can be possibly even more harmful than in adults. For the newborn/infant "50% of iron" obtained prior to birth is what is needed for growth.
Iron metabolism and usage is a very complicated and extensive network of pathways but put simply iron enables red blood cells to be made. Without these, how can a human survive? More importantly, how can a fetus develop properly without the iron that is neccessary being present? Along with the aforementioned / discussed birth defects and issues, these fact may be some key talking points for a medical professional to an obese woman who is considering having children in her future. As no woman ever wants to put her child in any sort of danger, this information may motivate the patient/individual to make the lifestyle changes towards improving her metabolic/weight profile that will decrease the morbidity risks for herself and her future child.
Article link: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/04/110430133125.htm
American Academy of Pediatrics (2011, April 30). Maternal obesity puts infants at risk of iron deficiency. ScienceDaily. Retrieved March 19, 2012, from http://www.sciencedaily.com /releases/2011/04/110430133125.htm
I agree that the health of a future child can be a great motivator for women who are obese and struggling to lose weight. We all know that being obese is dangerous for our health. But (sadly) sometimes it's hard to care about something that will affect you thirty years from now.
ReplyDeleteA couple of years ago I dropped 70 pounds... But I owe my success to three things. First, I was taking physiology classes. I couldn't hide from hearing about the health risks associated with obesity. The truth of the situation was in my face on a daily basis. Second, I had great support from my husband (studies have shown the weight loss success is highly influenced by whether or not you and your spouse are on the same page). Third, I knew that I eventually wanted kids but obesity can drastically reduce your fertility. So yeah, women can be reached and supported during weight loss by wanting to start families and the desire to give those children the healthiest start possible. Now to just get this pregnancy weight off...