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Taking vitamin supplements may do more harm than good among pregnant women, new research suggests. It is thought high doses of vitamins C and E may increase the risk of pre-eclampsia, or rising blood pressure, which can threaten both mother and baby. The condition has been linked to the production of toxic molecules called free radicals by the placenta. It was previously thought vitamin C and E could tackle this risk by blocking the damage caused by them. But the latest study of 2,400 expectant mothers with high blood pressure, kidney problems, clotting disorders or diabetes showed those given extra vitamin supplements were more susceptible to pre-eclampsia - which appeared about a week earlier among those who received the vitamins. They were also 15 per cent more likely to deliver low birth-weight babies. (SH/WNWCCB/SC)
(c) 2004 World Entertainment News Network
