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Riboflavin Deficiency a Risk for
Pregnancy Toxemia
Because nutritional deficiencies are related to
preeclampsia during pregnancy, researchers reporting in the Obstetrics and Gynecology
Journal examined riboflavin (vitamin B2) deficiency in high-risk pregnant women in
Zimbabwe. The availability of several essential nutrients is highly dependent on seasonal
changes in this area.
Major nutritional riboflavin deficits have been described
in pregnant women in both industrial and developing countries. Adequate riboflavin supply
is particularly important in pregnancy. Preeclampsia, which is also called toxemia, is a
problem that occurs in some women during pregnancy. It usually occurs in the second half
of pregnancy with symptoms of high blood pressure, swelling that doesn't go away and large
amounts of protein in urine. The cause is unknown.
Riboflavin status was tested in 154 women who were at
increased risk for preeclampsia during their pregnancy. Fifty-two women (34 per cent) were
found to be riboflavin deficient. The deficiency was found to occur more frequently toward
the end of pregnancy. Preeclampsia was significantly more frequent in the
riboflavin-deficient group, where 30 per cent of women developed the syndrome. Only eight
patients (8 per cent) with adequate riboflavin status became preeclamptic.
The doctors suggest that riboflavin deficiency be
considered a possible risk factor for preeclampsia. |
