Lipid profile in pregnant women during the third quarter according to body mass index and fat intake

Abstract

Introduction: Pregnancy is a condition that involves a metabolic adaptation to meet the requirements of the developing fetus. During gestation circulating lipids increase, leading to agrowth in lipid peroxidation. Under normal conditions, this phenomenon is offset by an increase in antioxidant systems.
Objective: Compare the lipid profile in pregnant women according to body mass index and frequency of fat intake.
Methods: A hundred women were studied in their third trimester of pregnancy. Weight and height were measuredto calculate body mass index. A survey on food consumption was appliedand blood samples were taken to measure levels of circulating lipids by enzymatic colorimetric methods.
Results: An increase in blood lipids is observedrelated to the frequency of fat consumption. A ratio of HDL-cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol fat intake was found by the body mass index.
Conclusions: During controls, obstetricians should evaluate the pregnant diet and reinforce the need to reduce fat intake and increase consumption of vegetables, legumes and cereals. The periodic quantification of the lipid profile of pregnant women is good tool to control lipid when they exceed physiological levels, contributing to an adequate prenatal control.