Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), also known as toxemia or pre-eclampsia, is one of the serious conditions that can mar a pregnancy. Usually first time moms develop symptoms between 28 and 37 weeks gestation. Her healthcare provider puts together a clinical picture of a woman who doesn't feel well, has a diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) over 90, is spilling protein in her urine and has abnormal swelling of her hands and face. Maybe in 28 week labs it was noted that her hemoglobin had not dropped, evidence of a normally expanding blood volume. Perhaps the unborn baby is not growing well and the mother has headaches, blurred vision, and pain above her stomach. This woman is likely to be hospitalized immediately and given toxic drugs to slow her reflexes so she will not have a seizure. Both she and the baby could die.
The Incidence of PIH is Alarming
Approximately 76,000 mothers and 500,000 babies are lost to this disease each year, which occurs in five to eight percent of pregnancies. Mothers who are under 18 or over the age of 40 are at greater risk. Having a mother, grandmother, aunt or sister who was toxemic makes the condition more likely. While the exact cause is unknown, several nutritional theories are promising.
A Well-Nourished Pregnancy is Low Risk
Dr. Tom Brewer was an obstetrician who claims he eliminated toxemia in his patients by encouraging them to eat a daily allowance of 2600 calories, including 80-120 grams of protein and salt to taste, adequate fluids, vegetables, fruits and whole grains. While the Brewer diet relies heavily on milk, meat and eggs, his proponents acknowledge that vegetarians and vegans can also obtain adequate protein from plant sources. Raw vegan mothers most often rely on abundant sprouts and spirulina, a protein-rich algae. High protein shakes are not recommended, as food sources are superior to supplements.
Natural antioxidants, calcium, magnesium and B vitamins, particularly B6, may be deficient in some women who develop PIH. Healthy omega-3 essential fatty acids, found in flax, hemp, walnuts and wild-caught coldwater fish, can also play a role in blood vessel health and are certainly needed for fetal brain and nerve development. Pregnant women should be cautious when consuming fish because of heavy metal pollutants. Mineral-rich herbs that support liver and kidney health include red raspberry leaf and stinging nettles. These nourishing teas can be made strong and be taken liberally throughout pregnancy. Consumption of 1/4 lb of celery a day has been found to provide potassium and a unique substance known as phthalide, which normalizes blood pressure and reduces certain stress hormones.
While no one can guarantee a perfect pregnancy outcome, good prenatal care is essential for early detection of problems such as PIH, and a good diet can form a healthy foundation. High quality proteins, whole grains, good fats and plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits provide for a woman's increased needs during pregnancy. Added support can also be obtained from nutritious herbs.
References:
Anne Frye, CPM, Holistic Midwifery, A Comprehensive Textbook, Labrys Press, 1995
Ina May Gaskin, Spiritual Midwifery, The Book Publishing Co.,TN, 2002
Mary Earhart - Mary Earhart, RN, BSN, is a Licensed Midwife. She has written articles for professional journals and grants for non-profit agencies as ...
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