During pregnancy, inadequate nutrition can slow down the growth of maternal tissues and organs, impair nutrient storage, delay the growth and development of the fetus, increase the risk of premature birth, and lead to excessive fluid retention in the pregnant woman's body, exacerbating gestational hypertension and increasing the likelihood of developing diabetes. Therefore, the dietary regulation for women with gestational hypertension must adhere to the principles of a hypertension-friendly diet.
1. Adequate Nutrient Intake
Pregnant women should increase their intake of animal-based foods rich in high-quality proteins, such as fish, meat, and eggs. They should also consume dairy products that are rich in calcium, as well as vegetables and fruits that are rich in minerals and vitamins. Vegetables and fruits also contain dietary fiber, which can promote bowel movements and prevent constipation in pregnant women.
2. Balanced Diet
Pregnant women should adjust their diets in accordance with the normal pattern of weight gain during pregnancy.
3. Moderate Exercise
Engaging in beneficial physical activities is recommended.
4. Supplementation of Trace Elements
Research has found a close relationship between selenium and gestational hypertension. As pregnancy progresses, the selenium content in the maternal blood decreases, and selenium deficiency in pregnant women with gestational hypertension worsens as the condition progresses. After selenium supplementation, the blood selenium levels increase during the 34th and 37th weeks of pregnancy compared to the mid-term levels. The selenium content in the umbilical cord blood is also significantly higher in the selenium-supplemented group. Selenium supplementation improves average arterial pressure, urinary protein levels, and edema. Hemodynamic monitoring shows a decrease in peripheral resistance and blood viscosity, resulting in a lower incidence of gestational hypertension.
Therefore, it is beneficial for pregnant women to supplement selenium appropriately. Selenium is mainly obtained from food sources, such as dried and fresh seafood, animal liver, kidney, lean meat, and grains. These foods should be consumed more frequently.
