Effects of Fasting During Pregnancy on Child Development: What Science Says

Introduction

Pregnancy is a crucial time for both mother and baby. Many parents wonder: Is fasting during pregnancy safe? Research from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar suggests mixed results. While short-term outcomes like birthweight often remain unaffected, questions remain about long-term growth, metabolism, and brain development. At KidsCortex, we break down the science so you can make informed choices.

Immediate Effects of Fasting During Pregnancy

Most studies on Ramadan fasting during pregnancy show little or no significant effect on:

• Birthweight

• Premature birth

• Immediate newborn outcomes

Healthy women who fasted under medical supervision generally delivered babies with similar short-term outcomes as those who did not fast. However, results vary by population, trimester, and maternal health.

Long-Term Effects on Child Growth and Development

While the short-term effects seem minimal, research highlights potential long-term risks:

• Child growth delay when fasting occurs in the first or second trimester.

• Possible metabolic changes (like altered glucose regulation) later in life.

• Mixed evidence on cognition and learning abilities, with most studies showing no major impact, but data remain limited.

Animal studies further support the idea that time-restricted eating during pregnancy can affect offspring’s metabolism and growth.

Why Study Results Differ

Scientific findings vary because:

• Fasting types differ (Ramadan vs. intermittent fasting).

• Timing in pregnancy matters (early vs. late trimester).

• Nutrient intake at night plays a big role in compensating for daytime fasting.

• Maternal health (anemia, diabetes, underweight) influences outcomes.

Practical Guidance for Parents

At KidsCortex, we recommend:

1. Consult your doctor first. Pregnant women are usually exempt from religious fasting due to health risks.

2. Prioritize nutrition and hydration during non-fasting hours.

3. Avoid strict calorie restriction in the first trimester.

4. Get regular prenatal checkups to monitor baby’s growth.

Conclusion

The science shows:

• Short-term outcomes (birthweight, preterm birth) are usually safe for healthy women who fast.

• Long-term effects on child growth and development remain uncertain.

• Medical advice is essential before fasting in pregnancy.

At KidsCortex, our mission is to guide parents with science-backed insights on child health and development.