High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy Could Harm Your Child’s Mental Development
Maybe it’s an extra cheeseburger here, or a few extra pieces of bacon on your butty; maybe it’s the habitual late night nights, and early morning turn arounds; but, whatever it is, it is a sure fire path to high blood pressure, and the reason why your child’s brain faculties will deteriorate sooner than others.
A recent study released by the American Academy of Neurology journal suggests that Hypertension during pregnancy ‘may alter conditions in the womb which impairs foetal growth.’ What this means is that high blood pressure is bad, but now it isn’t only affecting you, as previously thought, but your child as well. The study goes on to suggest that mental deterioration in older age could be linked to prenatal conditions, directly linked to high blood pressure.
So, what all of this means is: take care of yourself whilst pregnant. It seems silly, but the severity of it deems repeating the obvious.
However, it is easy to suggest eating, and living healthier, when there isn’t a being currently living in my uterus, but there is merit behind the suggestion.
With so many devices out there said to damage our children’s brains (i.e. television, computers, mobile phones) this seems like the easiest to endure, because it is something completely within your control. The food you put into your body is going to have a direct influence on the child because it is shared with the child, and by simply taking a step back to consider what you’re eating, you will be better preparing your child’s cognitive abilities.
This has a trickle-down effect. Stronger mental faculties means a better opportunity to landing a good, high-paying job, nicer home and all around higher quality of living. All of this decided by what the mother decides to put in her body during pregnancy; easy, right?
It does seem a bit unfair that poor pregnant women are heaped another spoonful of responsibility, but the perk is the often unspoken reality: all children love their mums more than their dads. We know it; we’re just not into breaking hearts.
Keelan Crampsey
