Mediterranean diet in pregnancy may curb allergies

Women who eat a Mediterranean diet while pregnant could help stave off asthma and allergies in their children, a new study suggests.

The traditional Mediterranean diet is rich in plant-based foods -- vegetables, fruits, whole grain breads and cereals, legumes, and nuts -- as well as olive oil and fish. Adherents consume low to moderate amounts of dairy products and eggs, lesser amounts of white meat, and infrequently eat red meat.

Some studies have suggested that such eating patterns can lower children's odds of asthma symptoms and skin and nasal allergies. But it's unclear whether women can affect their children's future allergy risks by following a Mediterranean diet during pregnancy.

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