Brinjal, more commonly known as eggplant or aubergine, is a vegetable most commonly found in Asia and parts of the Mediterranean region. It forms an important part of the diet in South East Asian countries, and also in areas like Greece and Cyprus. Today, it is widely available across the world, and, irrespective of where you live, it has probably been a part of your diet as well. Normally, there are no bad effects of eggplants that can affect you adversely. However, things can become quite different when you are pregnant.
In fact, it can become confusing when it comes to including eggplants in the pregnancy diet; you will find some people advising you to include some of the purple vegetable, and some will advise you to steer clear of them. Here, let us debunk the myths.
Say yes to eggplants
To answer your question, yes, you can certainly eat eggplants during pregnancy. But, like everything else, it needs to be consumed in moderation. There are myriad benefits of eggplants that can actually keep you healthy during those nine months, and also promote the healthy development of the fetus. But the key is moderation. There are side effects of eating too much eggplants that can prove disastrous when you are pregnant.
It’s good for the baby
Eggplants are rich in a number of vitamins and minerals. They are potent sources of niacin, Vitamin B complex, Vitamin A, and Vitamin E. all of these vitamins help in the healthy development of the fetus. Apart from this, eggplants also contain ample amounts of potassium, iron, manganese, and copper, all of which help in ensuring that the baby’s electrolyte balance is maintained and blood circulation is healthy.
Contains folic acid
Eggplants contain pretty high amounts of folic acid, which is one of the most essential nutrients required for the healthy development of the baby. The folic acid in eggplants helps to regulate the growth of the nervous system and the spine, and significantly reduces the chances of developing any kind of defects, such as spina bifida and neural tube defects.
Relieves digestive disorders
Anything that provides relief from digestive disorders is a must have on the menu of the pregnant woman. Almost every woman will face digestive and gastrointestinal issues during pregnancy, ranging from constipation to diarrhea. Eggplants are a good addition to the menu because of this reason; they are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which helps in regulating smooth bowel movements. Besides, the dietary fiber also helps in keeping your metabolism in shape.
Good for the mother
The skin of bananas contains anthocyanin, which is a very potent source of nasunin. The antioxidant properties of nasunin help in keeping the body healthy by killing off free radicals, which ensures that you run minimal risk of cell and DNA damage during pregnancy. This boosts your immunity, and you can be sure that you will be healthy through this very delicate phase of your life. Besides, the minerals and vitamins present in eggplants helps you remains relatively disease free, and also helps in reducing bad cholesterol in the body.
However, you need to practice caution while eating eggplants during pregnancy.
Might cause miscarriage
Eggplants contain high levels of phytohormones, which help in inducing menstruation. So, if you consume too much of eggplants, there is a possibility that the pregnancy will be terminated by a miscarriage. It is safe to consult a doctor to fix your recommended daily intake of eggplants. And, if you are in a high risk pregnancy, it is best that eggplants be avoided altogether. Besides, eggplants may also lead to uterine contractions, which can induce labor and lead to premature delivery or miscarriages.
Might cause allergies
Some people are pretty allergic to eggplants, in which case consuming eggplants can cause quite a major allergic reaction. In case you have always been allergic, refrain from eating the vegetable at all during pregnancy as the allergic reaction might become more severe, and not all anti-allergic medicines will be suitable. In case you develop an allergy for the first time, seek medical help immediately.
Also read: Can I eat beetroot during pregnancy?
Eggplants, depending on where you live, will be pretty much part of your staple diet. unless you have been expressly forbidden from doing so, there is no reason why you would not be able to continue consuming eggplants once you are pregnant, of course, it is advisable that first you consult with your doctor, like with all other foods. Besides, make sure that the eggplants is always consumed thoroughly cooked, an piping hot; eating straight out of the refrigerator is a strict no-no as it will have colonies of parasites and bacteria living in it.