Diet to lower triglycerides and cholesterol in pregnancy

The increase in cholesterol and triglycerides during pregnancy can bring with it several health consequences. Fortunately, there are some dietary guidelines that help improve it. What to take into account?

Having a bad diet can alter the metabolism of any person; but when this happens in a pregnant woman, it can also present a problem for the baby. Now, how should the diet be to lower cholesterol and triglycerides in this case?

Although the body needs these compounds to function normally, a higher intake contributes to excess weight and the formation of atherosclerotic plaque, which can lead to a possible cardiovascular event. Next, we tell you more about this topic.

Why are triglycerides and cholesterol elevated in pregnancy?

Due to the current lifestyle, the most common eating patterns are those based on fast or industrialized foods . In general, these have a high caloric intake and little nutritional value. Although consuming them occasionally does not cause problems, their abuse is not recommended.

They contain saturated fats of animal origin and cholesterol. When the body absorbs these substances, it transports them through the blood through macromolecules (known as lipoproteins), in order to distribute them to the organs.

Also, if there is an excessive consumption of the mentioned compounds, the constant circulation of them in the arteries causes them to stick to the walls of the same, which narrows or blocks them. Once this occurs, this process increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

In the case of pregnant women, we must add the fact that there is an increase in triglyceride levels as a result of the needs of the fetus. This is part of the metabolic adaptation processes, but added to a high-fat diet, it causes a greater imbalance.

Recommended amounts

Scientific evidence considers the normal range to keep triglycerides and cholesterol below 150 and 300 milligrams per deciliter, respectively. In this way, it is possible to avoid the appearance of associated problems.

However, in the case of cholesterol, there are other factors that make it possible to increase it in the body. This includes the following:

• Liver diseases.
• endocrine pathologies.
• Kidney diseases.
• Use of certain drugs.
• Genetic predisposition to hypercholesterolemia .

Diet to lower cholesterol and triglycerides

To maintain the stable lipid profile, a change in lifestyle is required , in which there is a varied diet. In the same way, it is convenient to dedicate at least 30 minutes a day to the practice of physical exercise. However, it may happen that pregnancy forces you to rest and limit movement.

In addition to this, there are some cases in which the use of drugs is required. They must be indicated by the doctor, since some compounds interfere with the proper development of the fetus.

Regarding the dietary recommendations made by professionals, the abundant consumption of foods with dietary fiber and healthy fatty acids is suggested. Some options are as follows:

• Fruits, vegetables and vegetables.
• Whole grains, such as bread, pasta, and rice.
• Legumes.
• Blue fish, such as tuna, sardines, anchovies and salmon.
• Nuts.
• Virgin olive oil.
• Water and natural drinks.

Meals based on these foods provide nutrients that help reduce bad cholesterol levels in the blood (LDL) and increase the so-called good cholesterol (HDL).

The benefits are given because they contain monounsaturated fatty acids (present in virgin olive oil), omega 3 fatty acids (blue fish), vegetable sterols (in vegetable oils or incorporated in dairy products) and antioxidants (such as fruits and vegetables) whose assimilation promotes metabolism.

unwanted foods

The Spanish Heart Foundation recommends avoiding certain foods to maintain blood triglyceride levels at acceptable levels. Among them, he mentions the following:

• Butter.
• Nata.
• fatty meats
• Whole dairy.
• Coconut and palm oil .
• Fried and processed foods.

The Mediterranean diet: an option recommended by science

A type of diet known for many years that adapts to the proposed objective is the Mediterranean. In it, the foods mentioned in advance are considered appropriate for their preventive nature on heart disease.

It should be noted that it also includes https://nutritionustad.webnode.page/l/what-is-the-sustainable-diet/ moderate intake of red wine, but it has been shown that alcohol is not recommended due to its toxic nature, even in moderate doses.

In addition to this, pregnant women should avoid cigarettes, certain medicinal plants and other synthetic products that are harmful during pregnancy.

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What to remember about the diet to lower cholesterol and triglycerides in pregnancy?

Adopting a healthy diet, based on fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, is the best way to keep triglyceride and cholesterol levels stable. In addition to this, daily physical activity plays a key role.

On the other hand, if you are pregnant you should avoid all those harmful substances, such as certain medications and alcohol, that can affect the development of the baby. Do not forget that you should monitor yourself regularly and consult your doctor about which diet is the most recommended for your particular case.