Should women drink up while knocked up?

A new book suggests expectant mothers can enjoy a glass of wine and a few other traditional pregnancy no-no's

Baby shower
(Image credit: Shutterstock)

A glass of bubbly may actually be a safe way for an expectant mom to celebrate her pregnancy — and a few cups of coffee might not hurt either.

Much of the science behind the long litany of forbidden foods, drinks, and activities for pregnant women is bunk, according to economist and Wall Street Journal columnist Emily Oster. Her upcoming book Expecting Better: Why Convention Pregnancy Wisdom Is Wrong — and What You Really Need to Know turns a critical lens on the studies behind the rules and regulations imposed on pregnant women, and she's finding that most don't hold up to scrutiny.

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Emily Shire is chief researcher for The Week magazine. She has written about pop culture, religion, and women and gender issues at publications including Slate, The Forward, and Jewcy.