By Deepa Gandhi
I still remember the time when I was pregnant with my elder one. “Healthy bodies make healthy babies, so you have nothing to lose,” said Heidi Murkoff. I would read a lot of that. All the knowledge amassed during that time came handy even during my second pregnancy. But first one is always special. The importance of a nutritious diet for pregnant women is critical for the well-being of one’s baby as much as for the mother-to-be. My mom and mom-in-law would give me all sorts of advice, right from how to eat healthy, eat on time, eat for two (Myth! Myths!!) and stay active. This is a time when a pregnant woman should be careful about the diet and nutrition intake.
Today, I will be sharing some of the food preferences I made during my pregnancy, an A-list of healthy and best fruits for pregnant women that you must follow if you have embarked on journey of motherhood.
Why it’s important to eat fruit in pregnancy?
A pregnant woman requires foods rich in vitamins and minerals. Pregnancy diet should be perceived as nutritious, well-balanced, and a wholesome meal plan packed with fiber, potassium, vitamin A and C, folic acid. These nutrients keep the unborn’s body as well as that of his/her mother strong not only during pregnancy but also post-delivery.
One of the convenient ways to get a quick dose of nutrition is by adding fruits. They can be consumed in different forms like juices or in salads, but let’s not deny the fact that the best way is to consume them directly to heap the maximum benefits. However, there are certain fruits which are good during pregnancy.
6 best fruits for pregnant woman:
1. Oranges
I love oranges and this is one fruit which I had the most during my pregnancy days. Oranges are rich in Vitamin C, a good source of fiber and keeps you hydrated through the day.
2. Mangoes
My all-time favorite and I was lucky to get hold of them during my third trimester . Mangoes are a rich source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C. As its high in sugars, you should have it in limited quantity if you have gestational diabetes.
3. Pomegranate
Pomegranate is a good source of – vitamin K, iron, fiber, folate, and calcium. A glass of pomegranate juice is a powerhouse of nutrition.
4. Guava
Guava is a really nutritious fruits, rich in fiber, helps in digestion and relaxes muscles. It’s rich in vitamin C and carotenoids, and folate.
5. Banana
I had a lot of bananas during my pregnancy as my mom had advised me that it helps in relieving nausea and vomiting symptoms. They are rich in Vitamin B, potassium, and fiber.
6. Watermelon
Consuming watermelon during pregnancy keeps you hydrated, it is rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.
7. Some more fruits which are good
Apricot, avocados, grapes and apples are also good in pregnancy but you should avoid few fruits like papaya and having dry fruits in large quantities. Dry fruits have sugar content and low water content. It is best to eat dried fruits in addition to fresh fruits, rather than instead of them.
Fruits to be avoided by a pregnant woman:
Making healthful food choices is crucial for women when they are pregnant. There are a few fruits that a pregnant woman should avoid.
Can pregnant woman eat papaya and pineapple?
It is advisable to go for a ripe papaya than unripe one. The unripe papaya has a substance which can lead to uterine contractions. Although, there is no scientific study to prove this theory however, as a precautionary measure it is good to highlight it.
Earlier it was said that pregnant woman should avoid pineapple as it can cause preterm labour but its a myth. There is no scientific study to prove this.
I hope you like the list of recommended fruits for pregnant woman. Do let me know your experience with fruit during pregnancy.
