<![CDATA[Background: Maternal nutrition plays a pivotal role in maintaining hemodynamic stability during pregnancy. Adequate intake of key nutrients has been shown to reduce the risk of hypertension and preeclampsia, which remain major contributors to maternal morbidity and mortality in low- and middle-income countries. Objective: This study aimed to examine the protective effects of maternal nutrition on blood pressure regulation by comparing women with normal pregnancies and those with preeclampsia in Medan, Indonesia. Methods: A comparative study was conducted from January to May 2025 in two referral hospitals in Medan. A total of 130 pregnant women participated, comprising 65 with normal pregnancies and 65 with preeclampsia. Nutritional status and dietary intake were evaluated using validated food frequency questionnaires and anthropometric assessments. Blood pressure was measured at standardized intervals. Data were analyzed with independent t-tests and logistic regression to identify associations between nutritional adequacy and blood pressure regulation. Results: Women with adequate nutrition had significantly lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure than those with poor intake (p < 0.01). Adequate protein intake reduced the risk of elevated blood pressure by 32%, calcium sufficiency by 28%, and micronutrient adequacy (iron, magnesium, folate) by 25%. The protective effects were most evident in normal pregnancies, yet remained statistically significant among women with preeclampsia. Conclusion: Maternal nutrition exerts a protective influence on blood pressure regulation during pregnancy. Enhancing nutritional interventions, particularly adequate protein, calcium, and micronutrient intake, may contribute to the prevention and management of preeclampsia in Medan, Indonesia. Keywords: maternal nutrition; blood pressure regulation; protein; calcium; preeclampsia]]>
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