Preeclampsia is caused due to gestational hypertension and affects women during the course of their pregnancy. This condition can be managed with proper treatment, if found early on; otherwise, it can lead to serious complications to both the mother and her developing baby. Know more about gestational hypertension risks here.
Delivery of the baby cures this condition and if the baby has completed 37 weeks gestation, then there may be no other issues. If delivered prematurely, owing to the severity of your condition, the baby may require special monitoring and care till her health stabilizes.
This condition may not be preventable in all cases, but making some diet and lifestyle changes help in preventing preeclampsia from surfacing. The main goal is to keep your blood pressure in normal range and certain foods are known to control BP effectively.
Preeclampsia Diet
What to avoid?
- Sodium is the first thing you need to cut down on, when pregnant. You need to watch your salt consumption carefully to keep your blood pressure normal.
- Avoid junk food and processed foods, because they are heavy in salts.
- Avoid eating deep fried foods.
- Avoid processed meats.
- Decrease the consumption of white bread.
- Stay away from fizzy drinks.
- Reduce the consumption of caffeinated drinks.
- Steer clear from alcohol.
- Avoid cheeses that increase listeria risk.
What foods to include?
Eating healthy is the key to avoiding preeclampsia and other issues in pregnancy. You need to focus on wholesome, nutritive meals, preferably home cooked.
- Include a variety of whole grains in your daily meals
- Eat nuts and legumes to add more protein
- Include varieties of fruits and fresh vegetables to boost antioxidants in your body and reduce stress.
- Fish is known to reduce preeclampsia symptoms. Have fish at least two times per week during pregnancy. It is also a great source of omega 3 fatty acids which helps in promoting your baby’s health.
- Include probiotic foods such as yogurt to improve your gut health. Probiotics help in promoting good bacteria and fighting infections. These products also help in boosting immunity.
- Take your prenatal vitamins regularly as prescribed by your doctor.
