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Is Intermittent Fasting Safe During Pregnancy? What Experts Say

Is Intermittent Fasting Safe During Pregnancy? What Experts Say
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Avoid intermittent fasting during pregnancy. Potential risks to mother and baby, impacting nutrient intake and fetal development, are significant. Always

Shubhra Mishra

By Shubhra Mishra — a mom of two who turned her own confusion during pregnancy into BumpBites, a global mission to make food choices clear, safe, and stress-free for every expecting mother. 💛

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Quick verdict: ❌ Best avoided. Intermittent fasting during pregnancy is generally not recommended by medical professionals due to the increased nutritional demands of pregnancy for both you and your developing baby.
For many expecting parents, the journey of pregnancy brings a wave of new questions, especially around diet and lifestyle choices. If you've been exploring different eating patterns, you might be wondering, "is intermittent fasting during pregnancy safe?" Perhaps you've practiced intermittent fasting before becoming pregnant and are now unsure if it's still okay, or maybe you're looking for ways to manage weight or blood sugar and stumbled upon it. Take a deep breath. We understand the worry that comes with every decision you make for your baby's health. While intermittent fasting has gained popularity for certain health benefits outside of pregnancy, the general consensus among obstetric and nutrition experts is that pregnancy is not the time for caloric restriction or restrictive eating patterns. Your body has unique and increased nutritional needs during this time, and consistent nourishment is crucial for healthy fetal development. In this article, we'll dive into why intermittent fasting during pregnancy is generally advised against, what the potential risks are for both you and your baby, and what safer, evidence-based alternatives exist for managing your health throughout your pregnancy. We'll cover what medical organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend, and help you understand the specific nutritional demands of each trimester.
Trimester/Stage Verdict Notes
First Trimester ❌ Avoid Critical period for organogenesis; high risk of nutrient deficiencies affecting fetal development. Increased nausea/vomiting can already limit intake.
Second Trimester ❌ Avoid Significant fetal growth and development require consistent energy and nutrient supply. Maternal energy needs increase.
Third Trimester ❌ Avoid Rapid fetal weight gain and preparation for birth demand peak maternal energy and nutrient intake. Risk of hypoglycemia and dehydration.
Breastfeeding ❌ Avoid Can negatively impact milk supply and maternal energy levels. Consistent hydration and calorie intake are essential for milk production.

What is Intermittent Fasting?

Intermittent fasting (IF) is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of eating and voluntary fasting. It's not about *what* you eat, but *when* you eat. Popular methods include the 16/8 method (fasting for 16 hours and eating all meals within an 8-hour window each day), the 5:2 method (eating normally for five days and restricting calories to 500-600 on two non-consecutive days), and alternate-day fasting. People often adopt intermittent fasting for weight management, improved metabolic health, or to potentially regulate blood sugar. The proposed benefits of intermittent fasting often stem from metabolic changes that occur during the fasting window, such as a shift from glucose to fat for energy (ketosis) and cellular repair processes like autophagy. While research on these benefits is ongoing for the general population, it's crucial to understand that these findings do not automatically translate to safety or benefit during pregnancy, a unique physiological state with dramatically different nutritional requirements.
A balanced breakfast spread with whole grains, fruits, nuts, and a glass of milk, emphasizing healthy eating habits for pregnancy.
Prioritizing consistent, nutrient-dense meals throughout the day is key to meeting the elevated demands of pregnancy.

Is Intermittent Fasting Safe During Pregnancy?

Gene
rally, intermittent fasting during pregnancy is **not considered safe or recommended** by leading health organizations. Both the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the World Health Organization (WHO) emphasize the importance of consistent, adequate nutrition throughout pregnancy to support optimal maternal health and fetal development. Pregnancy is a period of increased metabolic demand, requiring additional calories and a steady supply of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals). Fasting can disrupt this delicate balance. There is a significant lack of robust scientific studies specifically investigating the safety and effects of intermittent fasting on pregnant individuals and their babies. Most research on intermittent fasting has been conducted on non-pregnant adults, and the results cannot be directly applied to pregnancy. Introducing periods of caloric restriction or food deprivation during this critical time could potentially lead to nutrient deficiencies, dehydration, and disruptions in blood sugar regulation for the expectant parent, which could in turn negatively impact fetal growth and development. Your body is working hard to grow a baby, and it needs a consistent fuel source to do so effectively.

Safety by Trimester

Is intermittent fasting safe during early pregnancy?

The first trimester is a period of rapid and crucial fetal development, known as organogenesis, where all major organs and body systems are forming. This stage requires a consistent and rich supply of nutrients. Intermittent fasting during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, is generally **not recommended**. Inadequate caloric intake or nutrient deficiencies during this critical window can potentially interfere with fetal organ development. Many pregnant individuals also experience nausea and vomiting (morning sickness) in the first trimester, which can already make it challenging to eat enough. Imposing fasting on top of these symptoms can exacerbate dehydration, nutrient depletion, and energy crashes, potentially increasing the risk of complications.

Is it safe to fast during the third trimester of pregnancy?

The third trimester is characterized by rapid fetal growth and significant weight gain for the baby, demanding the highest caloric and nutrient intake of the entire pregnancy. Intermittent fasting during the third trimester is also **not recommended**. During this period, the baby's brain and lungs are maturing, and they are building up fat stores. Restricting food intake could lead to insufficient energy for both the pregnant individual and the baby, potentially increasing the risk of low birth weight or preterm birth. Additionally, pregnant individuals in the third trimester are more susceptible to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) due to the baby drawing a steady supply of glucose, and fasting can worsen this. Dehydration is another concern, as consistent fluid intake is vital, especially as your body prepares for labor.

Intermittent Fasting in the Second Trimester

While the initial organ development phase passes after the first trimester, the second trimester still involves significant growth and maturation of the fetus. Your body's energy needs continue to increase to support this development. Therefore, intermittent fasting in the second trimester is also **not recommended**. Consistent nutrient intake helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, provides the building blocks for your baby's growing bones and tissues, and supports your own energy levels as your body undergoes significant changes. Disruptions to this consistent intake could lead to fatigue, dizziness, and potential nutrient shortfalls for both you and your baby.

Intermittent Fasting While Breastfeeding

Even after birth, the nutritional demands on your body remain high, especially if you choose to breastfeed. Breastfeeding requires a substantial amount of energy and fluid to produce a healthy milk supply. Intermittent fasting while breastfeeding can negatively impact your milk production, potentially leading to a decrease in supply and affecting your baby's nutrition. It can also lead to increased fatigue and nutrient depletion for you. For these reasons, medical experts generally advise against restrictive eating patterns like intermittent fasting during the breastfeeding period. Ensuring adequate hydration and consistent, nutrient-dense meals is paramount for both milk production and your own recovery.
A pregnant woman gently touching her belly while looking at a variety of healthy snacks like fruit, nuts, and whole-grain crackers, emphasizing mindful eating.
Focusing on balanced meals and snacks ensures a steady supply of nutrients for you and your baby.

What Intermittent Fasting Schedule is Safe for Pregnant Women?

To be clear, there is **no intermittent fasting schedule that is considered safe for pregnant women.** The concept of "safe dosage" or "safe schedule" for intermittent fasting does not apply to pregnancy because the practice itself is generally not recommended. Standard medical advice from organizations like ACOG is to avoid any form of caloric restriction or prolonged fasting during pregnancy. Instead of focusing on fasting schedules, the emphasis during pregnancy should be on:
  • Consistent caloric intake: Ensuring you meet the increased energy needs of pregnancy (typically an additional 340 calories per day in the second trimester and 450 calories per day in the third trimester).
  • Regular meals and snacks: Eating every few hours to maintain stable blood sugar levels and provide a continuous supply of nutrients to your baby.
  • Nutrient density: Prioritizing foods rich in vitamins, minerals, protein, and healthy fats.
  • Adequate hydration: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
These guidelines aim to prevent nutrient deficiencies, hypoglycemia, and dehydration, all of which can pose risks to both the pregnant individual and the developing fetus. Always discuss any dietary changes or concerns with your healthcare provider.

What are the potential risks of intermittent fasting for pregnant women and the baby?

Engaging in intermittent fasting during pregnancy carries several potential risks for both the pregnant individual and the developing baby. These risks are why most medical professionals advise against it. For the **pregnant individual**, risks include:
  • Nutrient Deficiencies: Pregnancy significantly increases the need for various vitamins and minerals, such as iron, folate, calcium, and iodine. Restricting eating windows can make it difficult to consume enough nutrient-dense foods, potentially leading to deficiencies that can impact both maternal health and fetal development.
  • Dehydration: Consistent fluid intake is crucial during pregnancy. Fasting periods can make it harder to stay adequately hydrated, leading to fatigue, headaches, and even more serious complications like preterm contractions.
  • Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar): Pregnant individuals are already prone to lower blood sugar levels due to the baby constantly drawing glucose. Fasting can exacerbate this, leading to dizziness, lightheadedness, weakness, and even fainting.
  • Ketosis: Prolonged fasting can lead to ketosis, where the body burns fat for fuel, producing ketones. While generally safe for non-pregnant individuals, the effects of sustained ketosis on fetal development are not well-understood and are a concern.
  • Increased Nausea and Fatigue: For many, fasting can worsen common pregnancy symptoms like morning sickness and fatigue, making an already challenging period even more difficult.
  • Electrolyte Imbalance: Fasting can sometimes lead to imbalances in electrolytes, which are vital for nerve and muscle function.
For the **developing baby**, potential risks include:
  • Impaired Fetal Growth and Development: A consistent supply of calories and nutrients is essential for the baby's rapid growth and the development of organs, brain, and bones. Inadequate nutrition due to fasting can lead to restricted fetal growth or other developmental issues.
  • Low Birth Weight: Studies on general caloric restriction during pregnancy (though not specifically intermittent fasting) have linked insufficient nutrient intake to babies being born with low birth weight, which can have long-term health implications.
  • Preterm Birth: Severe dehydration or nutrient deficiencies can potentially contribute to preterm labor.
  • Long-term Health Consequences: Some research suggests that maternal malnutrition during critical periods of fetal development may have long-term impacts on the child's health, including increased risks for chronic diseases later in life.
Given these significant potential risks and the lack of safety data, the medical community strongly advises against intermittent fasting during pregnancy.

Can pregnant women with gestational diabetes do intermittent fasting?

If you have gestational diabetes, intermittent fasting is generally **not recommended** and could be particularly risky. Managing gestational diabetes requires careful monitoring of blood sugar levels and often involves a consistent eating schedule with balanced meals and snacks to prevent both hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Fasting periods could lead to significant drops in blood sugar, especially if you are on medication for gestational diabetes. Conversely, the "refeeding" periods after a fast could potentially lead to blood sugar spikes if not managed carefully. The goal with gestational diabetes is to maintain stable blood sugar levels throughout the day to protect both your health and your baby's development. This is best achieved through regular, portion-controlled meals and snacks, as advised by your healthcare provider and a registered dietitian specializing in pregnancy. They can help you create a personalized meal plan that supports healthy blood sugar control without the risks associated with fasting. For more information on managing this condition, you can explore resources like our guide on managing gestational diabetes during pregnancy.

What do doctors say about intermittent fasting during pregnancy?

The overwhelming consensus among medical professionals and leading health organizations is that intermittent fasting is **not recommended** during pregnancy. Organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK emphasize the importance of consistent, adequate nutrition for pregnant individuals. Here's a summary of what doctors generally advise:
  • Increased Nutritional Needs: Pregnancy is a unique physiological state with significantly increased caloric and nutrient requirements. Doctors stress that these needs must be met consistently to support the rapid growth and development of the fetus and maintain maternal health.
  • Lack of Safety Data: There is a critical absence of robust, ethical studies on intermittent fasting in pregnant populations. Without this data, doctors cannot confidently recommend or endorse the practice.
  • Potential Risks Outweigh Unproven Benefits: Given the known risks of nutrient deficiencies, hypoglycemia, dehydration, and potential impacts on fetal development, doctors prioritize safety. They see the potential risks of fasting as far outweighing any unproven benefits during pregnancy.
  • Focus on Balanced Diet: Instead of restrictive patterns, doctors advise pregnant individuals to focus on a balanced, nutrient-dense diet with regular meals and snacks, along with adequate hydration.
  • Individualized Care: While the general advice is against IF, doctors always recommend discussing any dietary concerns or practices with your personal healthcare provider, who can offer tailored advice based on your specific health history and pregnancy needs.
In short, if you ask your obstetrician about intermittent fasting during pregnancy, you are very likely to be advised against it.

What are safe alternatives to intermittent fasting for weight management during pregnancy?

If you're concerned about weight management or simply want to ensure you're making the healthiest choices during pregnancy, there are many safe and effective alternatives to intermittent fasting that support both your health and your baby's development. Here are some recommendations:
  • Balanced Prenatal Diet: Focus on a diverse diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. This ensures you and your baby get all the necessary nutrients without restriction. For guidance, check out our article on essential prenatal nutrition guidelines.
  • Regular Moderate Exercise: Activities like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help manage weight, improve mood, and prepare your body for birth. Always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
  • Mindful Eating Practices: Pay attention to your body's hunger and fullness cues. Eat slowly, savor your food, and avoid distractions. This can help prevent overeating and improve digestion.
  • Eating Small, Frequent Meals: Instead of large meals, opt for 5-6 smaller meals and snacks throughout the day. This helps stabilize blood sugar, manage nausea, and provide a steady stream of nutrients to your baby.
  • Consulting a Registered Dietitian for Pregnancy Nutrition: A dietitian specializing in prenatal care can provide personalized guidance, help you create a healthy meal plan, and address any specific dietary concerns or medical conditions.
  • Staying Well-Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is crucial for many bodily functions, helps manage hunger, and prevents dehydration, which can be a risk during pregnancy.
  • Prenatal Vitamins and Supplements: While not a substitute for a healthy diet, a high-quality prenatal vitamin ensures you're getting essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, and DHA, which are vital for fetal development.
These approaches prioritize nourishment and well-being, which are paramount during pregnancy.

What are the side effects of fasting while pregnant?

The side effects of fasting while pregnant can range from uncomfortable to potentially serious, affecting both the pregnant individual and the developing fetus. These are some of the reasons why medical professionals advise against intermittent fasting during pregnancy. For the pregnant individual, common side effects can include:
  • Severe Fatigue and Low Energy: Your body needs constant fuel to grow a baby. Fasting can lead to extreme tiredness, making daily activities difficult.
  • Dizziness and Lightheadedness: Often a sign of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or dehydration, which can increase the risk of fainting.
  • Exacerbated Nausea and Vomiting: Empty stomachs can worsen morning sickness for many, leading to more discomfort and potential dehydration.
  • Headaches: Common during fasting, often due to changes in blood sugar or dehydration.
  • Irritability and Mood Swings: Nutritional deficiencies and fluctuating blood sugar can affect mood stability.
  • Nutrient Deficiencies: Making it harder to meet the increased demands for essential vitamins and minerals like iron, folate, and calcium, which are critical for both maternal health and fetal development.
  • Dehydration: Inadequate fluid intake during fasting periods can lead to dehydration, which can cause complications like urinary tract infections, constipation, and even preterm contractions.
  • Electrolyte Imbalance: Affecting critical bodily functions, including heart rhythm and muscle contractions.
For the developing baby, the side effects are primarily related to inadequate nutrition and can include:
  • Restricted Fetal Growth: A consistent supply of nutrients is vital for the baby's growth rate. Fasting can limit this, potentially leading to a smaller baby.
  • Low Birth Weight: Associated with various health challenges for the baby, both at birth and later in life.
  • Impact on Organ Development: Especially during the first trimester when organs are forming rapidly, nutrient deprivation can have lasting effects.
These potential side effects highlight why it's crucial to prioritize consistent nourishment and hydration throughout your pregnancy.
Dietary Approach Verdict Note
Ketogenic diet during pregnancy ❌ Best avoided Generally not recommended due to lack of research on long-term fetal effects of ketosis and potential for nutrient deficiencies.
Vegan diet during pregnancy ⚠️ Safe with limits Safe if well-planned and supplemented (B12, iron, DHA, calcium). Requires careful monitoring by a healthcare provider or dietitian.
Vegetarian diet during pregnancy ✅ Generally safe Generally safe and healthy, but requires attention to iron, B12, and protein intake. Easily managed with diverse food choices.
Low-carb diet during pregnancy ⚠️ Safe with limits Moderate low-carb can be managed, but very low-carb (ketogenic) is not recommended. Ensure adequate fiber and nutrient intake.
Calorie restriction during pregnancy ❌ Best avoided Never recommended unless specifically medically indicated and supervised for extreme obesity, due to risks of nutrient deficiency and restricted fetal growth.
Detox diets during pregnancy ❌ Best avoided Not recommended. Often involve severe calorie restriction, limited food groups, and unproven claims, posing risks of nutrient deficiency and dehydration.
Mediterranean diet during pregnancy ✅ Generally safe Highly recommended. Emphasizes whole foods, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and lean protein, aligning well with prenatal nutrition guidelines.

Myth vs. Fact

Myth: Intermittent fasting can help control gestational diabetes.

Fact: While intermittent fasting can impact blood sugar in non-pregnant individuals, it is generally **not recommended** for managing gestational diabetes during pregnancy. For pregnant individuals with gestational diabetes, consistent, balanced meals and snacks are crucial to maintain stable blood sugar levels and avoid dangerous highs and lows, which fasting can exacerbate. Your healthcare provider and a registered dietitian can help create a safe and effective meal plan.

Myth: Fasting occasionally is just like skipping a meal, and that's fine.

Fact: For a pregnant body, skipping meals or having prolonged periods without food is **not the same** as it might be for a non-pregnant person. Your body is constantly working to nourish a growing baby, and a steady supply of nutrients is essential. Skipping meals can lead to dips in blood sugar, dehydration, and nutrient deficiencies that can impact both you and your baby.

Myth: Intermittent fasting will help me avoid excessive weight gain during pregnancy.

Fact: While managing healthy weight gain is important, intermittent fasting is **not a safe or recommended method** for doing so during pregnancy. Healthy weight gain is crucial for your baby's development. Instead of restricting food intake, focus on a balanced, nutrient-dense diet and moderate exercise to support appropriate weight gain and overall health. Your doctor can provide personalized guidance on healthy weight gain for your specific pregnancy.

Key Takeaways

  • Intermittent fasting is generally **not recommended** during any trimester of pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
  • Pregnancy significantly increases your caloric and nutrient needs, which are best met through consistent, regular meals and snacks.
  • Potential risks of intermittent fasting include nutrient deficiencies, hypoglycemia, dehydration, and negative impacts on fetal growth and development.
  • There is a lack of scientific research on the safety of intermittent fasting during pregnancy, making it an unproven and potentially risky practice.
  • If you have gestational diabetes, intermittent fasting is particularly dangerous and should be avoided.
  • Safer alternatives for weight management and overall health during pregnancy include a balanced diet, regular moderate exercise, mindful eating, and consulting with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can intermittent fasting cause miscarriage?

There is no direct scientific evidence definitively linking intermittent fasting to miscarriage. However, any practice that leads to severe nutrient deficiencies, dehydration, or significant blood sugar instability, particularly in early pregnancy, could theoretically increase risks or negatively impact the earliest stages of fetal development. For this reason, medical professionals advise against it.

What happens if you fast while pregnant?

If you fast while pregnant, you may experience side effects such as severe fatigue, dizziness, headaches, increased nausea, and low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). For the baby, prolonged fasting could lead to insufficient nutrient supply, potentially impacting growth and development, or contributing to low birth weight.

Is it safe to fast for 12 hours while pregnant?

Even a 12-hour fast is generally **not recommended** during pregnancy. While it might seem less restrictive, your body and your baby require consistent nourishment throughout the day. Many pregnant individuals already experience periods of nausea or reduced appetite, and adding a planned 12-hour fast could exacerbate potential nutrient shortfalls and blood sugar fluctuations.

Can fasting affect fetal development?

Yes, fasting can potentially affect fetal development. A developing baby needs a continuous supply of calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Prolonged periods without food can lead to nutrient deficiencies and unstable blood sugar in the pregnant individual, which can deprive the fetus of essential building blocks, potentially impacting growth, organ development, and overall health.

What are the risks of not eating enough during pregnancy?

Not eating enough during pregnancy carries risks for both you and your baby. For the pregnant individual, risks include nutrient deficiencies, severe fatigue, anemia, and compromised immune function. For the baby, risks include restricted fetal growth, low birth weight, preterm birth, and potential long-term health consequences due to inadequate development.

How many calories should a pregnant woman eat daily?

The caloric needs of a pregnant woman increase over the course of pregnancy. Generally, pregnant individuals need approximately 340 extra calories per day in the second trimester and about 450 extra calories per day in the third trimester, compared to their pre-pregnancy needs. These are averages; individual needs vary, so consult your doctor.

Can fasting during pregnancy cause low birth weight?

Yes, fasting during pregnancy, or any form of significant caloric restriction, can increase the risk of low birth weight. When the pregnant individual's body doesn't receive enough consistent nutrition, the baby may not receive adequate calories and nutrients for proper growth, leading to a smaller size at birth, which is linked to various health challenges.

What are the signs of malnutrition in pregnancy?

Signs of malnutrition in pregnancy can include excessive fatigue, weakness, dizziness, unexplained weight loss or insufficient weight gain, pale skin, brittle nails, hair loss, and frequent infections. For the baby, signs can include restricted growth noted during ultrasounds. If you suspect malnutrition, contact your doctor immediately.

When to Call Your Doctor

It's always best to discuss any dietary concerns or practices, including intermittent fasting, with your healthcare provider. If you have been practicing intermittent fasting and are now pregnant, or if you're considering it, schedule a conversation with your obstetrician or a registered dietitian specializing in prenatal care. You should call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms, especially if you have been fasting or restricting your food intake:
  • Severe dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting spells
  • Persistent or severe headaches
  • Extreme fatigue or weakness that interferes with daily activities
  • Signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination, dry mouth, or intense thirst
  • Unusual abdominal pain or contractions
  • Any concerns about your baby's movements or growth
  • Significant weight loss or insufficient weight gain
  • Symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), such as shakiness, confusion, or rapid heartbeat
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

References

  1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). Nutrition During Pregnancy.
  2. World Health Organization (WHO). WHO Recommendations on Antenatal Care for a Positive Pregnancy Experience.
  3. National Health Service (NHS). Eating well in pregnancy.
  4. Mayo Clinic. Pregnancy diet: What to eat during pregnancy.
  5. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Nutrition During Pregnancy.

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Shubhra Mishra

About the Author

When Shubhra Mishra was expecting her first child in 2016, she was overwhelmed by conflicting food advice — one site said yes, another said never. By the time her second baby arrived in 2019, she realized millions of mothers face the same confusion.

That sparked a five-year journey through clinical nutrition papers, cultural diets, and expert conversations — all leading to BumpBites: a calm, compassionate space where science meets everyday motherhood.

Her long-term vision is to build a global community ensuring safe, supported, and free deliveriesfor every mother — because no woman should face pregnancy alone or uninformed. 🌿

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