Female Fitness Blog

Quit Smoking, Have a Happier Baby?

Submitted by Fit and Female Blog

Yup, that’s the story according to British researchers. 

We already know that smoking during pregnancy can effect the health of the newborn, including increasing the risk of miscarriage, birth defects, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and low birth weights.  But, now it appears that there is a psychological effect on the infant, as well.

A British study of more than 18,000 babies used a scale to evaluate mood, receptivity to new things, eating and sleeping patterns.  Researchers found that when pregnant women were “heavy smokers” (defined as 10 or more cigarettes per day) throughout their pregnancy they had babies who we classified as having more difficult dispositions, appearing fussier and less content.  Whereas women who quit during early pregnancy had much better behaved little ones.   

So if the fear of major health risks doesn’t inspire you to quit (and come on now — it should), maybe the thought of giving birth to a tiny terror might.

Geralyn Coopersmith, MA, CSCS is an exercise physiologist, certified personal trainer and the creator of The Best Me Ever, a comprehensive weight loss and wellness system just for women

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