Neuropharma: Caffeine intake in pregnant women affects brain development in future generations

9, 2020 /--- -- Researchers at the Del monte Institute of Neuroscience at the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) analyzed brain scans of thousands of 9- and 10-year-olds and revealed changes in the brain structure of children exposed to caffeine in the womb.
new study found that caffeine intake during pregnancy alters important path paths in the brain, which can lead to behavioral problems later in life.
"These effects are small and do not cause terrible psychosis, but the effects are of concern and should make us consider the long-term effects of long-term caffeine intake during pregnancy," said Dr. John Foxe.
(Photo: www.pixabay.com) researchers observed a range of behavioral problems in these children, including attention difficulties and ADHD.
. Zachary Christensen, M.D., said: "What's unique about this study is that we've found a biological way to explain why we don't consume caffeine during pregnancy.
, the study provides us with a starting point for future studies to understand exactly when changes are made in the brain.
analyzed brain scans of more than 9,000 9- and 10-year-old participants in the ABCD study.
found that in children where mothers reported consuming caffeine during pregnancy, there was a significant change in white blood in the brain (forming connections between brain regions).
previous studies have found that caffeine can have a negative effect on pregnancy and does not have the enzymes needed to break down caffeine when it reaches the fetus as it passes through the placenta.
new study suggests that caffeine may also have a lasting effect on neurodevelopment.
researchers note that it is not clear whether the effects of caffeine on the fetal brain change between one and three months, or when these structural changes occur during pregnancy.
" current clinical guidelines have recommended limiting caffeine intake to no more than two cups of regular coffee per day during pregnancy.
" in the long run, we want to provide better guidance for mothers, but at the same time, if something doesn't go wrong, they should consult a doctor.
"(Bioon.com) Source: Brain changed by caffeine in utero, study finds Original source: Zachary P. Christensen et al, Caffeine exposure in utero is associated with structural brain alterations and deleterius neurocognitive outcomes 9-10 year old children, Neuropharmacology (2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2021.108479