Apparently, it may be the case.
We posted last month for FASD awareness month to encourage pregnant mothers-to-be to avoid alcohol entirely, because of its potential to cause harmful defects in children.
A new meta-analysis of parents’ alcohol consumption and their childrens’ health showed that regular drinking by dads in the three months before a child’s birth increased kids’ risk of congenital heart defects by 44%.
The study’s authors recommend that both men and women stop drinking for at least 6 months before trying to have kids to avoid the risks.
The study also raises questions about many studies that have claimed alcohol has protective effects on the heart. After all, doesn’t it seem logical that the same thing that causes congenital heart defects in babies would be harmful, not helpful, to their parents’ hearts?
If you’re cutting back or quitting drinking, we’d love to help. Drinker’s Helper is an app that provides motivational exercises, drink tracking and insights into why you drink, and a support group of your peers to help you make needed changes. Try it free for a week before joining!
