The Effects of Different Types of Fruits on Pregnancy
Are you or a relative or friend of yours pregnant? If yes, then there will also be a lot of other people around you who shower you with a lot of advice. These pieces of advice can be related either to your lifestyle or your food habits. At some point, you would definitely get confused about what to grasp and what to ignore.
Being a mother is a great responsibility. From the day you realize you are pregnant, the health of the child becomes your main focus. So, it becomes really difficult when you get confused by the different opinions. One of the most important factors that aids in the proper growth of the fetus, is your food habit. A well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in the mental and physical growth of your child. Hence, it is essential to have a clear idea of what types of fruits and vegetables are good for you and your baby.
In this section, we will see the effects of different types of fruits on your pregnancy.
Fruits which are good for your pregnancy
Apples: Apples are rich in antioxidants and various vitamins like C, A, E, D, and zinc. Hence, this fruit is good for your immune system as well as for the growth of your baby. The anti-oxidants which are present in this fruit also helps to reduce your health problems such as asthma and eczema, which might affect your child in the future. The fiber content of the fruit is good for your digestive system.
Banana: The potassium content in the bananas helps to maintain the balance between the fluids and electrolytes in your body. Thus, it reduces your cramps and fatigue.
Watermelon: The high water content in the watermelon helps to keep you hydrated. This fruit also contains a lot of vitamins and minerals, which is good for your baby and you.
Apricot: Apricots are rich in iron, beta-carotene, calcium, and potassium. These nutrients are essential for the proper growth of the baby. During pregnancy, you also need an extra iron content of 50% in your body to maintain your hemoglobin levels and blood flow. Hence, the consumption of this fruit is very important during your pregnancy.
Orange: Oranges, which are rich in vitamin C, folate and fiber are essential for the overall growth of your baby. Moreover, the water content in this fruit helps you to stay hydrated.
Avocado: The role of folate is vital in maintaining the health of your baby. Folate helps to prevent the birth defects of the brain and spinal cord. As the avocado is rich in this nutrient, this fruit is highly recommended by the doctors.
Pear: Pears are rich in folate and fiber. One of the major problems faced by the pregnant women is constipation. This problem can be tackled by consuming fiber-rich foods. Consumption of this fruit also helps to maintain a regular balance in your body.
Cherries: To improve the blood flow to the placenta and the baby, cherries have to be consumed. It also contains vitamin C and melatonin. The melatonin helps to reduce the commonly seen anxiety and induces a good night’s sleep. Melatonin also stimulates the cell growth.
Mango: Mangoes are rich in iron, potassium, folate, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin A and hence ideal for the pregnant women. This fruit is also naturally sweet. Thus, in case, if you have gestational diabetes, then it is better to consult with your doctor before consuming this fruit.
Grapes: The magnesium content in the grapes helps to reduce the cramps during your pregnancy. This fruit contains a lot of other nutrients such as folate, fructose, and vitamins. Hence, it becomes an ideal ingredient to enhance your metabolism.
Guava: Guavas are rich in ascorbic acid and vitamin C. These nutrients are essential to enhance the immunity system of the pregnant women. They also help to lower the blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of premature births and miscarriages.
Strawberry: The folic acid, which is necessary to protect the baby from the neural tube defects are contained in the strawberries. Consumption of this fruit also helps to reduce the risk of premature birth.
Kiwi: Kiwi is rich in folic acid, vitamins, and minerals. Hence, the consumption of this fruits helps in the brain development of the baby.
Fruits to Avoid During Your Pregnancy
Papaya: Though papaya is rich in various vitamins and iron, these fruits should not be consumed especially during your third trimester. The latex present in the unripe and semi-ripe papayas triggers the uterine contractions, which might lead to early labor. Though it helps to cure constipation and heartburn, the consumption of this fruit even in your second trimester should be done after consulting with your gynecologist.
Grapes in third trimster: Though grapes are included in the list of fruits which are beneficial to pregnant women, it is better not to consume them during the third trimester. This is because, the grapes produce heat, which might affect both the mother and the baby.
Pineapple: The bromelain content in the pineapple softens the cervix and hence will induce early labor. Excessive quantity of pineapple can cause diarrhea and hence, dehydration.
All pregnant women, hence, have to be very careful before consuming fruits. A wrong move can affect both you and your baby. It is always better to consult your gynecologist before taking a decision on your diet.