A western dietary pattern during pregnancy is associated with neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood and adolescence
Overview
Paper Summary
This large prospective study suggests that a "Western" diet high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of ADHD and possibly autism in children. The findings were supported by blood metabolite analyses and replicated for ADHD in three additional cohorts. The association was stronger in children with a higher genetic risk and those born to mothers with a higher BMI, especially in males.
Explain Like I'm Five
Eating lots of processed foods, sugary drinks, and not enough fruits and veggies during pregnancy might make it more likely for a child to have ADHD or autism.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
B.E. disclosed consulting or advisory board roles for several pharmaceutical companies (Eli Lilly, Janssen, Lundbeck, Takeda, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Boehringer Ingelheim, and Otsuka). B.Y.G. led a research center partially funded by Lundbeck. J.L-S. disclosed roles as a scientific advisor and consultant for two companies. All other authors declared no competing interests.
Identified Limitations
Rating Explanation
Strong methodology with longitudinal data, large sample size, objective metabolomics data, and external validation efforts. However, the observational design limits causal inference, and replication for autism was inconsistent, hence not a 5. Also, the disclosed conflicts of interest, while noted as not influencing the research, merit transparency and slight caution.
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