Dieting and Conception: What to Know Before Trying to Conceive

Question
Hi Brenda,

My bf and I have been trying to concieve for almost 6 months now. We decided to stop trying so hard and to just let it happen. Where not monitoring my ovulation dates, or trying OPK's anymore. Now I decided to go on a diet. I previously dieted with Hydroxycut, and I loved the results I got. Therefore I want to start taking them again. We have a vacation coming up, and I need to shed a few pounds quicker than just diet alone. Now my question is, what if I become pregnant while taking them. Of course I will stop as soon as pregnancy is detected, but will the few weeks being on them & being pregnant effect the baby? What about exercise as well. Im working on the stomach, which means lots of sittups. Will that do harm as well?

Looking forward to your response, and thanks in advance!

Answer
Dear Helena,

The three active ingredients in Hydroxycut are ephedrine, caffeine, and aspirin - none of which are recommended in pregnancy. Caffeine can be ingested in small doses (a few cups of coffee or soda a day, etc,..) but not in high concentrations such as what is in a pill form.

Studies have linked aspirin to various pregnancy complications. A few studies show that taking aspirin around the time of conception and in early pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage. And some researchers believe that taking aspirin at adult doses during pregnancy might affect the baby's growth and may slightly increase the risk of a placental abruption.

As far as the ephedrine - studies on animals show adverse effect and toxicity on fetus. There is no adequate human data, but use of Sympathomimetic drugs in general during the 1st trimester were found to be associated with some minor congenital malformations, inguinal hernia and club foot.

So - the Hydroxycut I would not recommend if you are trying to conceive. As far as exercise, moderate exercise is always great and sit-ups are fine. It strengthens those abdominal muscles and that is a great thing in pregnancy. Obviously once you were to find out you're pregnant, you should cut back on them a bit (just remember moderation), but they wouldn't be contraindicated unless you were having severe cramping or vaginal bleeding with your pregnancy.

I hope this information has helped you and answered your questions. I wish you well.

Brenda