Inflammation is central to reproductive success. Normal ovulation's, menstruation, implantation and parturition are all inflammatory processes. In contrast, conditions of pregnancy represent an exaggerated inflammatory response (systemic or localized), including spontaneous abortion, preterm labor, preterm pre-labor rupture of the membranes (PPROM), preeclampsia, and other "great obstetrical syndromes."
Clearly, pregnancy females and those who wish to be pregnancy should pursue an anti-inflammatory lifestyle that includes exercise, a healthy diet, and healthy thinking. An operational goal should be to maintain a normal inflammatory state, so that both mother and developing child can get through the initial nine month process in a healthy fashion, which should then be followed by a healthy recovery for the mother and a healthy developmental process for the newborn.
Regarding diet, researchers coined the term "fertility diet" to describe the diet that is most conducive to a healthy pregnancy, which is very similar to the Mediterranean-like, anti-inflammatory diet that I have described previously in many TAC articles. Regarding the Mediterranean diet, preterm birth was reduced in Danish woman who adhered to such a diet.
Useful Nutrients during Pregnancy
A prenatal vitamin supplement is very common; however, research suggests that there are additional nutrients to consider as possible supportive measures.
Dietary fiber from food or supplements may be advised. Adequate dietary fiber intake has been associated with a reduced expression of gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia.
Maternal omega-3 fatty acid supplementation during late pregnancy and lactation decreases the risk of developing food allergy and IgE associated eczema in infants during their first year of life. Published papers outline an omega-3 plan during pregnancy.
Adequate vitamin D intake is crucial for maternal and the health of the developing infant. Recent evidence indicates pregnant and lactating women may need as much as 7,000 IU's of vitamin D per day.
When women supplement with probiotics, such as Lactobacillus GG, before and after pregnancy, there is a reduced expression of eczema in their children.
Summary
A healthy nutritional approach for mothers and their developing child is very straightforward and supported by clinical research. Consideration should be given to an anti-inflammatory diet that is supported by fiber, a multivitamin, vitamin D fish oil, and probiotics.
There is an additional concern that should be considered if infertility is a problem. Silent celiac disease can manifest as infertility in some women and this has been suspected for many years.
-This artical was written by Dr. David Seaman.
Dr. David Seaman is a Professor of Clinical Sciences at National University of Health Sciences - SPC campus and is a consultant for Anabolic Labortories. He has written numerous articles on the treatment options for chronic pain patients, with a focus on nutritional management.
