SAEDNEWS: Excessive fat consumption at any stage of life can lead to various health problems. In this article, we’ll explore high blood fat during pregnancy. Stay with us until the end.
According to SaedNews, cholesterol and triglyceride levels naturally increase during pregnancy, a condition commonly known as pregnancy-related hyperlipidemia. This occurs because, as pregnancy progresses, the flow of nutrients to the placenta increases to support fetal growth and development. Extra cholesterol is necessary to supply the rapid growth of the fetus and placenta and is also essential for producing estrogen and progesterone—hormones that play a crucial role in a healthy pregnancy.
The main causes of high blood lipids and weight gain during pregnancy include:
Uninformed food choices and excessive consumption of sugar, sweets, and fatty foods.
Reliance on cheap starchy foods due to household budget limitations.
Physical inactivity and lack of exercise.
Fat accumulation in the blood vessels may increase the risk of stroke in pregnant women. In most cases, pregnant women with high blood lipids show no symptoms and may suddenly experience heart attacks or strokes. Key warning signs that should not be ignored include:
Sudden darkening of vision and dizziness
Drooping of the eyelid and mouth on one side of the face
Weakness or loss of movement on one side of the body
Slurred or unclear speech
Blurred or double vision
Sudden, severe headaches without cause
Numbness on one side of the body
Since diet plays a major role in blood lipid levels, the quality of food should take priority over increasing the quantity. Nutrient deficiencies in the mother affect fetal development, may lower the newborn’s IQ, and hinder proper development of the nervous system. High blood lipids in pregnant women can damage the placenta and reduce blood flow to the fetus.
Weight-loss diets are not recommended during pregnancy, even for mothers with significant overweight. However, a pregnancy-appropriate diet aimed at lowering blood lipids is considered safe. Mothers should have their lipid levels tested before and during pregnancy. If high blood lipids are detected, they should consult a nutritionist and follow a diet plan based on their lipid profile. During pregnancy, sufficient nutrient intake is critical, as the fetus relies on maternal blood. Ensuring a healthy baby is the primary goal, so all dietary programs should prioritize the health of both mother and child.
Pregnant women should be monitored throughout pregnancy and undergo routine tests to ensure physical health. Online home testing services can reduce the risk of exposure to healthcare centers.
For a blood lipid test, fasting for 12 hours is required, avoiding fatty and sugary foods, and ideally consuming nothing at all before the test. Key factors measured include triglycerides, LDL (low-density lipoprotein), and HDL (high-density lipoprotein). Normal, borderline, and high levels are as follows:
LDL (low-density lipoprotein): Normal <100 mg/dL; borderline 130–159 mg/dL; high >160 mg/dL.
HDL (high-density lipoprotein): Normal ≥60 mg/dL; low <40 mg/dL.
Triglycerides: Normal <150 mg/dL; borderline 200–239 mg/dL; high ≥240 mg/dL (warning level).
Avoid high-fat dairy products such as full-fat milk, cheese, and cream.
Minimize fat from meat and poultry.
Avoid processed and fast foods.
Eliminate high-cholesterol foods like eggs, liver, mayonnaise, animal fats, chocolate, creamy pastries, sausages, and fried foods.
Replace fried foods with boiled or baked chicken, fish, and legumes.
Use unsaturated oils such as olive, sesame, and corn oil.
Cook meat thoroughly to reduce fat content.
Avoid chicken skin, which contains high amounts of fat.
Reduce salt intake.
Use lemon juice to flavor salads.
Replace some meat with legumes.
Increase consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Use whole-grain bread.
