Mediterranean diet in pregnancy linked to lower infant colic and eczema risk

A study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that a Mediterranean diet during pregnancy may reduce the risk of colic and eczema in infants. The research, conducted by scientists from the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston Children's Hospital, and Harvard Pilgrim, analyzed data from over 1,300 pregnant women participating in Project Viva in Massachusetts.

Researchers used two scales to evaluate diet: one measuring Mediterranean patterns (high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats) and another measuring inflammatory patterns (high in red and processed meats, sugary drinks, salt, and refined grains). Each additional point on the Mediterranean scale was associated with a 15 percent lower risk of an infant having both colic and eczema, while each point on the inflammatory scale increased that risk by 34 percent.

Seafood consumption appeared particularly beneficial; one weekly serving of fish or shellfish during pregnancy was linked to a 25 percent lower probability of the infant experiencing both conditions. The study noted that the strongest associations were found in infants whose mothers had existing allergies. Notably, dairy, eggs, and nuts were not linked to these specific infant conditions.