Study shows prepregnancy diets affected by education

Black, Hispanic and women with less education eat a less-nutritious diet than well-educated white women during the weeks that precede their first pregnancy, according to a study by the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health.

Healthy maternal diets are linked to lower risks of preterm birth, fetal-growth restriction, pre-eclampsia and maternal obesity and, “unlike many other pregnancy and birth-risk factors, diet is something we can improve,” said lead author and associate professor Lisa Bodnar. — University of Pittsburgh

What made you decide to change careers?

I have a background in health from when I lived in the Philippines. I was working with a charity and helping my organization and the community. When I moved to Las Vegas, I was elected Miss Las Vegas Nevada for the nonprofit organization called NAFFAA (National Federation of Filipino American Associations), which is recognized by the White House. I was involved in a lot of fundraising and charity that helped the communities I lived in. When I was approached by the chamber, it was natural for me to (transition to) health and fitness because it’s all about wellness.

Why create a chamber such as this in Las Vegas?

(Raymond’s) genesis story for the health and fitness chamber is that his son is autistic, so he’s always wanted to educate people on how to improve the lives of children and adults who are autistic.

Do you mostly work with businesses and entrepreneurs who want to get into the health and fitness industry?

Yes. But when I came to the chamber, I wanted to invite everybody — even people not in the industry — to spread the knowledge of how we can continue health and wellness-consciousness. Everyone is a candidate and everyone is welcome.