Mothers with High BMI’s Have Heavier Babies
Mothers with a higher body mass index (BMI) before they become pregnant tend to have babies that have more fat on their bodies and in their livers, according to a new study by researchers at Imperial College London.
In assessing 105 babies and their mothers born at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, scientists found that the babies’ liver cell fat and total fat, especially around the abdomen, correlated with their mothers’ BMIs. The higher the mother’s BMI, the fatter her baby, the study reports.
“The prevention of obesity needs to begin in the womb,” said lead researcher Neena Modi, professor from the Department of Medicine at the college. “We need to identify what the optimal BMI for the mother is so we can help women ensure that their bodies are in the best possible condition before they get pregnant.”