Maternal fructose intake during pregnancy and lactation: Later effects on renal function

Excessive fructose consumption has been associated with hypertension and metabolic disorders and can alter physiological adaptations during pregnancy, with long-term detrimental consequences. This study evaluated in post-weaning mothers the effects of increased fructose consumption during pregnancy and lactation on blood pressure and renal function. Female Wistar rats were assigned to one of four experimental groups: non-pregnant control (NPC); pregnant control (PC); non-pregnant fructose (NPF), and pregnant fructose (PF). Control rats had free access to food and water, while the fructose groups had free access to food and to a 20% fructose solution, over the time period of the experiment. The systolic BP and renal function parameters were measured at the end of the experimental period, one week after weaning (28 days after delivery). The results were presented as means ± standard error. Higher values of BP were observed in both pregnant and non-pregnant rats treated with fructose compared to control. Creatinine clearance was reduced only in the PF group; however, both the PF and NPF groups had reduced Na+ and K+ excretions. In the PF group, there was also glomerular enlargement and changes in the media/lumen (M/L) ratio of interlobular arteries. Additionally, the PF group showed increased macrophage infiltration and expression of alpha-SM-actin and reduced expression of nitric-oxide-synthase endothelial in renal tissue. These findings suggest that the association of high fructose intake with pregnancy aggravated kidney changes that persisted for up to four weeks after delivery, which may represent a risk factor for maternal health.