http://www.carveoutcarbs.com/low-carbohydrates.html Low carbohydrates and pregnancy: Is it a good idea to follow a diet that emphasizes low carbohydrates when you're pregnant? en-us Tue, 15 Nov 2005 18:55:49 EST Tue, 15 Nov 2005 18:55:49 EST Weblog Editor 2.0 So you just found out you're pregnant. Congratulations! But is your low carbohydrates diet going to be good for your baby while you're pregnant? Low Carbohydrates and Pregnancy As you know by now, a diet with low carbohydrates can put your body in a state of ketosis. When your body is burning fat instead of carbs, by-products called ketones are produced. They accumulate in the bloodstream until they are excreted through urine. If your body is in a state of ketosis while you're pregnant, it can cause brain damage and mental retardation in your unborn child. If you're concerned about healthy eating during pregnancy, cutting carbs won't cut it. What you need to do is steer clear from diets with low carbohydrates until after the baby is born and you get the green light from your doctor. Until then, you can find foods that are healthy and have low carbohydrates. For instance: Instead of eating white bread, eat whole grain or whole wheat bread Instead of eating regular pasta, eat whole wheat pasta Instead of eating white rice, eat brown rice or long grain rice Instead of eating cake, cookies, pie, ice cream or other sweets, eat fresh fruit Instead of eating potato chips or tortilla chips, opt for popcorn, nuts or fresh veggies Another way to keep yourself and your baby healthy during your pregnancy without resorting to low carbohydrates is to follow this plan: Make sure you're getting 2-4 servings of fruit and 3-5 servings of vegetables every day, including 1-2 servings of dried beans, peas and legumes Make sure you're getting plenty of whole grains in the form of whole wheat or whole grain breads, whole wheat pasta, brown rice, whole grain cereal, etc. You need 6-11 servings daily Make sure you get 3-4 servings of low fat or nonfat dairy products every day You may have been trying to lose weight on a low carb diet before you were pregnant, but the baby is just starting out. He or she doesn't need to be on a diet yet. In fact, your baby needs nutrients to grow and be born healthy. Tue, 15 Nov 2005 18:55:49 EST