New evidence suggests a Mediterranean diet could have positive effects on the health of unborn babies in the womb.
In a global survey, France recorded the lowest rate of birth defects with 39.7 incidents per 1,000 live births. Spain and Italy also proved significantly better at keeping disorders such as heart problems and spina bifida at bay, the Independent reported
The UK ranked ninth behind all three countries with 43.8 defects per 1,000 live births.
The highest rate was found in Sudan, which recorded 82.
Mediterranean diets are rich in fruit and vegetables and, in particular, leafy vegetables - an excellent source of folic acid.
The new research could provide vital information needed reduce the number of babies affected each year. The survey said that annually, eight million babies are born with defects, 3.3m of which die before the age of five.
Talking to the Independent, March of the Dimes, a US charity that published the survey, said the report highlighted a serious and under-funded public health problem.
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