Mediterranean diet may reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia

The survey included health data for more than 8,500 women recruited from the Boston Medical Center. This is a medical facility that primarily treats low-income and undervalued racial and ethnic groups.

Nearly half of the participants were black, about 47% black, 28% Hispanic, and the rest white or women of other races.

The research team distributed to individuals a questionnaire containing questions about their diet and eating habits.

Reportedly, 10% of individuals developed pre-eclampsia, and those who had diabetes or obesity before pregnancy were twice as likely to develop pre-eclampsia.

Those who adhered to the Mediterranean diet had a 20 percent lower risk of pre-eclampsia.

The reduced risk was greatest among black women at increased risk of preeclampsia compared to white or Hispanic women.

Black women who did not follow the Mediterranean diet had a 72% higher risk of preeclampsia than non-black women who ate foods typical of the Mediterranean diet.

Black women in the United States have almost three times the risk of maternal mortality compared to white women. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention..

It is important to note that the stress of enduring a system of racism, discrimination and racism can contribute to these various health consequences. research We have found that prejudice and general inequality among doctors can mean that black women face significant difficulties in getting proper medical care even before they become pregnant.

Previous studies of Mediterranean-style diets and pre-eclampsia have been mixed, and the authors argue that this may be due to the lack of high-risk women included in the study.

“There are so many factors that influence the risk of developing pre-eclampsia that it’s difficult to draw conclusions in a study that looks at just one factor, but adds multiple nutritional and lifestyle adjustments. By doing so, you can reduce the risk. ” Kaslyn RezacA registered dietitian and a prenatal / pregnant nutrition expert said.

Pre-eclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that can cause life-threatening symptoms such as high blood pressure, proteinuria, and signs of organ damage. This condition also increases the risk of women with long-term heart disease, heart events, and heart failure.

According to the author, the Mediterranean diet is Improves oxidative stress Or endothelial cell function.It may also boost Placental vascular function Supports health Changes in metabolomics..

“A combination of high-vegetable and unprocessed foods … may be due to foods that are anti-inflammatory and therefore reduce oxidative stress (related to inflammation). [and] How do these beneficial effects occur? “Hunnes says.

Dr. G. Thomas LewisOB / GYN Reed of the MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California, states that a Mediterranean diet also promotes lower insulin levels by improving glycemic control.

Drug therapy should be used with caution because few interventions are available to prevent pre-eclampsia during pregnancy and there are risks. press release..

According to Lewis, the most commonly used drug to reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia is baby aspirin.

“There are currently no other preventatives / treatments available,” Lewis said.

The authors hope that the results of this study will reveal how healthy eating habits can reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia in pregnant women.

Start by replacing lean meat with whole raw foods such as nuts, seeds, legumes, fruits, salads, and whole grains.

Rezac says it will reduce packaged and artificial foods.

Lewis suggests using healthy oils like olive oil and eating lean proteins like skinless chicken and fish (such as salmon and halibut).

“Before eating, think of it as” these genuine whole foods, “that is, meaning minimal processing,” says Rezac.

Hunnes says there are many ways to change your diet. For example, choose a whole-wheat bean burger instead of a traditional cheeseburger, or a handful of walnuts or cashews instead of a bag of potato chips.

“The more fruits and vegetables (and whole grains) are added to our diet, the better,” says Hunnes.

A new study shows that a Mediterranean diet may help reduce the risk of women developing pre-eclampsia during pregnancy. The benefits were highest for black women at high risk of pre-eclampsia compared to white and Hispanic women. The interventions available to prevent pre-eclampsia are limited, and researchers believe that a healthier diet helps reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia during pregnancy.