Individuals in this study group who consumed the highest calorie diet were at 70 percent greater risk than similar people on a lower calorie intake. Exercise, adequate fiber and calcium in the diet reduced the risk somewhat. While this study was readily received by the lay press, and even some scientific journals, it was not based on any scientific foundation. A review done at the University of California at San Francisco and at Boston, Mass, reveal that this practice is poor medical and fiscal practice. They observed that to prevent one case of brachial plexus injury during birth between 19 and 162 cesarean sections would have to be performed.
Diabetic women tend to have larger babies.
Between 5 and 48 caesareans would be required in this group. Stephan Christen, a biochemist at the University of California, suggests that people eat more vitamin E-rich foods rather than taking large amounts in the form of a supplement. He suggests that emphasis be placed on such foods as grains, soybeans, and nuts, which are high in both forms of tocopherol. He also suggested that supplement manufacturers reformulate their product to include both forms. While the cause of this infertility is unclear, the researchers suspect that pesticides may play a role.