Obesity is a chronic condition in which excess fat accumulates in the body, affecting human health. For women planning to become pregnant, obesity is particularly important because it can increase the risk of various complications, including congenital neural tube defects in the unborn child. The neural tube forms in the first 3–4 weeks of pregnancy, often before a woman even knows she is pregnant, so it is extremely important to control your weight and lifestyle in advance.
Studies show that women who are overweight have a higher risk of having a baby with neural tube defects than women of normal weight. The reasons for this are related to changes in metabolism, hormonal imbalances and inflammatory processes in the body, which often accompany obesity. These factors can interfere with the proper formation of the neural tube in the foetus and increase the likelihood of congenital disorders.
Controlling weight before pregnancy is one of the most effective ways to reduce risks. Women are advised to gradually lose excess weight through healthy eating, moderate physical activity and, if necessary, under the supervision of a doctor. Rapid or extreme weight loss is not safe, so any changes in diet and lifestyle should be gradual and supervised by a specialist.
In addition to losing weight, it is important to pay attention to nutrition. Your diet should be varied and include sufficient amounts of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and protein. Special attention should be paid to folic acid, which is critical for the formation of the neural tube. Obese women are often prescribed high doses of folic acid to reduce the risk of NTD.
A healthy lifestyle before pregnancy includes avoiding alcohol and smoking, regular exercise, and managing chronic conditions that may accompany obesity, such as diabetes or hypertension. It is also important to undergo a medical examination so that your doctor can assess your health and give recommendations on how to reduce the risks for your future pregnancy.
Preventing obesity and maintaining a healthy weight before pregnancy is one of the key ways to reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Taking care of yourself in advance helps the expectant mother create a safe environment for the baby’s development and provides peace of mind and confidence throughout the pregnancy.
