Authorities should recommend abstinence from alcohol for pregnant women
The myth that small amounts of alcohol are beneficial dies hard, and
is especially believed by those who drink regularly themselves. Relief of
anxiety by drinking alcohol or smoking tobacco may be an excuse of regular
drinkers or smokers to continue their habits, but any alcohol or smoking
is toxic to the developing fetus. As anxiety, like headaches, is more
common in women with nutritional deficiencies, and alcohol drinking causes
loss of nutrients, relief of anxiety is a poor argument for continuing to
drink during pregnancy. A mother who causes unnecessary damage to her
children can have a life time of otherwise avoidable anxiety.
Rapid Response:
Authorities should recommend abstinence from alcohol for pregnant women
The myth that small amounts of alcohol are beneficial dies hard, and
is especially believed by those who drink regularly themselves. Relief of
anxiety by drinking alcohol or smoking tobacco may be an excuse of regular
drinkers or smokers to continue their habits, but any alcohol or smoking
is toxic to the developing fetus. As anxiety, like headaches, is more
common in women with nutritional deficiencies, and alcohol drinking causes
loss of nutrients, relief of anxiety is a poor argument for continuing to
drink during pregnancy. A mother who causes unnecessary damage to her
children can have a life time of otherwise avoidable anxiety.
Competing interests:
None declared
Competing interests: No competing interests