Is low carb and keto safe during pregnancy?

You shouldn’t go on a low-carb diet, or follow a restrictive or weight-loss diet, while you’re pregnant. This is because we can’t be sure that diets are safe for you or your baby.

Going on a low-carb diet while you’re pregnant may affect your baby’s weight, and how she develops.

Low-carb diets tend to be high in fat, and may also restrict the amount of fruit, vegetables and fiber you eat.

Low-carb diets say that carbohydrate-rich foods are fattening. But gram for gram, carbohydrates contain less than half the calories of fat.

Wholegrain carbohydrates are a good source of energy, fiber, calcium, iron and B vitamins, which are all important during pregnancy. And high-fiber foods can help to ease constipation, which is common in pregnancy.

You may be missing out on important vitamins and minerals you and your baby need, such as folic acid and calcium.

Since your body digests them more slowly, they can also help you to feel fuller for longer, and keep your energy levels steady throughout the day.

Foods that contain sugar, such as cakes, tend to also contain saturated fat. Try not to have food and drink that is high-sugar and high-fat in pregnancy. This will help you to avoid gaining too much weight.

Don’t forget to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day, and take regular exercise.