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What is Happening to the Foetus’s Brain at Week 30
At around week 30, the foetal brain’s structure and functions grow rapidly. At week 30, the foetal brain grows approximately 2.3 ml per day. This week marks the beginning of crinkling, where the smooth brain structures fold into gyri and sulci, allowing more space for the brain to fit within the skull. Circling is a sign that the brain can hold more neurons and can process complex information.2,50,000 neurons are created every minute and connect through synapses. These connections are like electrical circuits transmitting signals. This brain wiring controls emotion, movement and thought processing.
Myelination also begins at this stage. A fatty layer forms around the nerve fibre for faster communication between cells. This process requires more lipids and micronutrients for better growth.
The baby's eyes open as a response to light and voices. Foetuses also exhibit dream-like states during REM sleep. During this time, the mother's heartbeat, emotions, and bonding with the baby help shape brain architecture faster.
Importance of Maternal Diet at Week 30
At this stage, the baby's growth and development are entirely dependent on the mother's body. The placenta transports the oxygen, glucose, amino acids, and other nutrients to the foetal bloodstream.DHA, choline, iron, and other micronutrients support intense brain growth, including neuron formation, synaptic conditioning, and myelination. Deficiency in these nutrients can hinder the development of memory, movement and cognitive function.
Research shows that the intake of higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and choline during late pregnancy results in infants with higher attention spans and visual acuity (2). Increased iron supplement also resulted in enhanced motor and cognitive outcomes for the baby.
Nutrients for Foetal Brain Development
Foetal development is completely dependent on the mother's nutrients. Here are a few key nutrients an expectant mother should consume for the baby’s brain development.DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
DHA is an Omega-3 fatty acid that accumulates in brain cells and the retina. Adding DHA supplements to the week 30 diet increases brain, grey matter, and cortical volumes.Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, sardines, flaxseed, and fortified foods.
Choline, Folate, and B12
Choline, folate, and Vitamin B12 work together to support neurodevelopmental nutrients that support the production of cell membranes and the synthesis of neurotransmitters. These three nutrients work in harmony with myelination. Intake of higher choline supports neural tube closure and brain development, and boosts the memory of the infant. Choline is an often-overlooked nutrient that plays an important role in a baby’s brain development, especially at week 30.Natural foods high in choline and folate include eggs, soybeans, chicken, dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, cauliflower, lentils, citrus fruits, avocado, and whole grains.
Iron
Iron supports the transportation of oxygen and myelination. A lack of iron (anaemia) can lead to poor neurotransmitter synthesis and slower myelination. To prevent foetal iron deficiency, the World Health Organisation recommends 27 mg of iron daily during pregnancy. Adding iron to the daily diet after the third trimester is crucial for the baby’s cognitive outcomes. Pairing iron with vitamin-C-rich foods helps absorb the nutrients better.Rich sources of iron include lentils, red meat, pumpkin seeds, iron-fortified cereals, and spinach.
Iodine
Adding iodine supplements to the diet helps thyroid hormone, which regulates neuron growth, dendritic branching and myelination. Iron deficiency can affect a child's IQ and may harm brain health.Iron-rich sources that mothers can consider are iodised salt, dairy, eggs, fish, and seaweed.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D, also known as the sunshine vitamin, helps boost brain development, calcium metabolism, and skeletal growth. Low vitamin D can lead to perinatal mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient. Consuming it with meals containing healthy fats helps in better absorption.Natural sources of Vitamin D are sunlight, egg yolks, salmon, plant-based beverages, mushrooms, and fortified milk.
What to avoid at week 30?
While maintaining a good diet is important, certain foods can disrupt brain development and lead to pregnancy complications.- High-mercury fish like swordfish, shark, and king mackerel carry neurotoxic metals, which can interfere with neuronal growth.
- Undercooked fish and meat can increase the risk of bacterial infections.
- Too much caffeine can disrupt sleep and result in lower birth weight.
- Alcohol can increase the risk of cognitive impairment.
- Excess supplements or herbal medicines can be harmful.
For expecting mothers, week 30 should be all about mindful eating and restful sleep. Adding excess worries and stressful environments can affect your growing baby. Instead of relying only on supplements, try to get these nutrients from natural food, as the body absorbs the goodness better.
Focus on eating smart this week. Remember, your food choices directly affect your baby's growth. Add colourful fruits and vegetables to your plate. Indulge in rich, tasty, homemade, an balanced foods. Every bite you take will support the baby’s brain and overall development.
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FAQs on Your Baby's Brain is Growing Fast- Eat Smart
- What to eat for an intelligent baby during pregnancy?
A baby's brain development thrives on the mother's nutrient intake. Taking natural nutrients like green leafy vegetables, nuts, fish, seeds, lean proteins, and vegetables helps boost the baby’s brain development. - How can I speed up my baby's brain development?
To speed up a baby's brain development, indulge in foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid, and protein. Along with foods, engage with the baby by talking, reading and listening to music. These external stimulation helps improve a baby's cognitive development.