Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
25 November 2013 10:36
Eating plenty of fruit may cut the chances of complications in pregnancy
Eating plenty of fruit before and during pregnancy could help cut women's risk of suffering complications, new research suggests.
The study found a woman's chances of enjoying an fuss-free pregnancy could be boosted by following a healthy diet and maintaining a normal weight and blood pressure.
Researchers believe thousands more women every year could enjoy an uncomplicated pregnancy if their blood pressure was better controlled.
Scientists from King's College London monitored 5,600 first-time mums in the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand. The women were asked to complete questionnaires about their diets and medical histories; regularly had their blood pressure measured and underwent an ultrasound scan between 19 and 21 weeks of their pregnancy.
The researchers also collected details about the women's babies once they were born.
They found women who had a healthy diet that included eating at least three pieces of fruit a day during the month running up to conception were more likely to be among the 61% who had an uncomplicated pregnancy.
Fewer complications were also found to await women who had normal blood pressure and had a health body mass index (BMI).
The potential for complications during pregnancy is one of the reasons why having a pregnancy travel insurance policy is a must for all travelling mums-to-be. The study found the most common complications facing women during pregnancy are high blood pressure (8%) and pre-eclampsia (5%) while the most common on the babies' side are premature birth (4%) and being small for their gestational age (11%).
The study's authors say more research is needed but estimate more than 24,600 extra women each year could have an uncomplicated pregnancy if their high blood pressure was simply brought under control.
Lead author Dr Lucy Chappell, of the division of women's health at King's, said: "These findings suggest that by leading a healthy lifestyle both before and during pregnancy - including eating lots of fruit and maintaining a healthy BMI - it could be possible for women to increase the likelihood of experiencing an uncomplicated pregnancy."
The study's findings are published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ).
08 August 2019
Find your favourite Greek food with our guide on how to let your taste buds explore the delicious flavours of Greece.
[more...]
Ever wondered what life was like in Ancient Greece? Explore the city that many call the birthplace of Western civilisation by visiting these fantastic attractions in the legendary city of Athens.
Which Greek Island should I visit? A common question if you want to experience the beauty of Greece's many islands. Find the answer in our quick guide to ten of the best.
02 August 2019
What's the best beach resort in Portugal? Find out with our guide to some of the best seaside getaways Portugal has to offer...
Want to experience the taste of Portugal? Make sure you're hungry when you try some of these excellent foods that showcase the best of Portuguese cuisine.
Ready to explore one of Central Europe's grandest cities? Check out these must-see attractions in Hungary's beguiling capital, Budapest...
The Hungarian Grand Prix is one of the best motorsport experiences around, and here's everything you need to know if you're going this summer.
17 July 2019
Heading to Porto? Get more out of your visit and explore the best things to eat, drink and do in Portugal's second city with these great tips.
Want to experience a different side of Portugal? Check out one of these great destinations that lie a step or two away from the standard tourist trail...
08 July 2019
Want to taste the real France? Experience the best French food and drink at one of these excellent foodie festivals. Perfect for food and wine lovers everywhere!
Tired of the same old travel options? Explore the best travel experiences at one of these weird and wacky festivals from around the world.
Heading to the beach? Pack everything you need for the whole family by following this simple checklist.