Home Health Center Preeclampsia   Dietary Management Of Preeclampsia

Diet for Preeclampsia

 It is also necessary that you choose nutritious and healthy foods that will provide for your good health and also the health of your baby. Besides this the foods you consume should be such that it will help to keep your weight gain in the normal expected levels. A registered dietician with experience of dealing with diets for pregnant women could tell you different healthy ways to increase your nutrient intake while at the same time keeping a check on your calories.

Clinical trials are being conducted on the efficacy of calcium, fish oil supplements, vitamin C and E supplements, and baby aspirin in preventing preeclampsia. Early results are positive but more evidence is required before these methods can be widely recommended.

Research indicates that there is a link between poor nutrition and preeclampsia. It is recommended that women follow a diet for preeclampsia that both helps prevent the condition from developing and reduces the symptoms if it has already occurred. It is important to maintain a healthy weight before and during your pregnancy. An ideal diet should:

• Reduce your intake of processed foods

• Limit junk food, fatty foods, and refined sugars

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol

• Drastically cut back on salt during your pregnancy (especially if you fall in the high risk category for preeclampsia)

• Drink plenty of water and keep hydrated

• Consume foods high in calcium and vitamin D

• Include foods rich in vitamin C and E as these are high in antioxidants that can help prevent preeclampsia. Some of the foods that you could include in your daily diet are red and green peppers, tomatoes, broccoli, vegetable oils, sunflower seeds, almonds, and wheatgerm

• Eating garlic when pregnant may help reduce high blood pressure.
  

Thus there are different ways that can help you prevent as well as deal with the condition. However it is necessary that you pay attention to all the symptoms that show up during your pregnancy.



Frequently asked questions

• What Is Preeclampsia And A Possible Cure?
• Any Treatment For High BP When Pregnant?

References

1. Trends in Fetal and Infant Survival Following Preeclampsia, Olga Basso, Svein Rasmussen, Clarice R. Weinberg, Allen J. Wilcox, Lorentz M. Irgens, Rolv Skjaerven; JAMA. 2006;296(11):1357-1362.doi:10.1001/jama.296.11.1357
   
2. Barrier Contraceptive Methods and Preeclampsia, James L. Mills, Mark A. Klebanoff, Barry I. I. Graubard, J. Christopher Carey, Heinz W. Berendes; JAMA. 1991;265(1):70-73.doi:10.1001/jama.1991.03460010070033