Photo: unn
A study by the University of Bristol found that children of mothers who consumed more sugar during pregnancy grew up with lower BMI, ate fewer sweets, and performed better in school.
Researchers focused on the UK sugar surge after confectionery rationing ended on April 24, 1949. Using data from 36,000–85,000 participants, they found that prenatal sugar exposure left lasting effects on health, diet, and education.
People exposed to the 1949 sugar surge had lower adult BMI, better school performance, and consumed slightly less sugar overall.
Stephanie von Hinke, lead author, said the findings support fetal programming, showing that maternal diet, habits, and wellbeing can shape a child’s long-term health and behavior.
She emphasized that the study does not recommend a high-sugar diet during pregnancy.
