Symptoms of pre-eclampsia include high blood pressure, high levels of uric acid in the blood, fluid retention in hands and ankles, facial swelling, low urine output and sudden weight gain.
Also called pre-eclamptic toxaemia, toxaemia, hypertensive disease of pregnancy (HDP) pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) or gestosis.
It is a serious condition in that it affects the placenta, reducing the blood supply and oxygen to the baby. If the condition is allowed to progress, clots and fatty acids build up in the placenta blocking the arteries and causing the placenta to fail. The mother’s blood supply to the vital organs such as the brain, kidneys and liver is also compromised resulting in a high risk of premature labour.
- A severe headache, visual disturbance, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain can indicate that there is a threat of the condition progressing to eclampsia. If you have these symptoms, call your doctor or health professional immediately.
- Eat a high protein diet as a lack of protein has been linked to pre-eclampsia.
- Eat foods rich in arginine including nuts, seeds, wheat, bread, brown rice oats, chickpeas, egg plant, capsicum, tomatoes, mushrooms, sugar, chocolate, cocoa, carob, coffee, caffeine soft drinks, raisins.
- Get plenty of rest and relaxation.
- Avoid fatty and sugary foods.
- Drink 2-3 litres of water daily with squeeze of fresh lemon.
- Drink nettle, dandelion and lime flower tea regularly to cleanse the kidneys.
- Take adequate levels of vitamin E, B6, C and E, magnesium, calcium, potassium and zinc.
- Take evening primrose, flaxseed and fish oils.
- Drink raw beetroot juice (blended with carrot and apple for taste)
- Freshly juiced watermelon purifies the kidneys.
- Include garlic in your diet.
- Try reflexology to reduce blood pressure.
- Acupuncture helps build the immune system and support the kidneys.