But Hand also believes extremely low-carb diets are not safe during pregnancy because carbohydrates are needed so they can be combined with fat fragments and used for energy. "Without sufficient carbohydrates, the body cannot use its fat in the normal way, and there is an incomplete breakdown of fat," says Hand. "This produces a by-product called ketones. When ketones accumulate in the blood and urine, it causes ketosis – a condition that can cause brain damage and irreversible mental retardation in the infant."

Other experts agree that cutting carbs while pregnant can be risky. Dr. Abby Aronowitz, author of Your Final Diet (Single Star Press, 2003), is one such expert. "Living a low-carb way of life is dangerous for the mother and baby, since it robs both of vital nutrition and fiber," says Dr. Aronowitz. "Certain nutrients can only be found in carbohydrates, and these powerful antioxidants and fiber work together to boost the immune system. Fiber is particularly important in pregnancy to prevent constipation and can only be found in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, unless the diet is supplemented with psyllium fiber, such as [that found in the over-the-counter dietary fiber supplement] Metamucil."

Dr. Aronowitz adds that while eliminating "white" carbs, such as white bread, white rice and white pasta, is fine to do during pregnancy, incorporating whole grains, fruits and other natural carbs is essential. "Our bodies need a variety of foods and so does a developing fetus, so the best thing a pregnant woman can do is incorporate a wide variety of foods," she says. "If she is concerned about gaining weight, she should ask her doctor for a reasonable range of calories [that] would be appropriate."

Furthermore, Dr. Aronowitz believes women have special biological needs for carbohydrates because they have naturally lower serotonin levels than men. "Carbohydrates boost serotonin levels in the brain to create feelings of well-being [and] calmness and [they] fight depression," she says.

Nutritionist Colette Heimowitz, vice president of education and research for Atkins Nutritionals Inc., believes the Atkins maintenance plan is a healthy way of life for a pregnant or lactating mother. "It incorporates a variety of adequate protein, a balance of natural fats and lots of vegetables as well as low-sugar fruits into a daily eating plan," says Heimowitz. "The weight loss phases of any diet are not appropriate for pregnant women, as this is not a time to lose weight."

There are times when cutting carbs is crucial during pregnancy. Katherine Muzyczka from Pittsburgh, Pa., was suffering from low blood sugar when she became pregnant. Pregnancy worsened the situation, and she went to her doctor to talk about cutting carbs.

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