Pregnancy is not only the most beautiful aspect of a women’s life but also the critical stage where the nutritional demands of the body double. Improper diet and nutrition result in severe health problems and can directly affect the growth and development of a baby. Therefore, pregnant women need to eat more to fulfill their nutritional requirements.
But, it does not mean overeating. It simply means to eat healthy and nutritious food which contains all the essential nutrients and vitamins to promote the healthy growth of the fetus and mother.
Healthy pregnancy foods include fresh fruits and vegetables, dry fruits, lentils, cereals, meat, milk, and other dairy products.
This article is about the best fruits to eat during pregnancy because fruits are a rich source of nutrients and essential nutrients. They provide instant energy and fulfill the nutritional deficiency of the fetus in different ways.
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5 best fruits to eat during pregnancy
Here are the 5 best fruits to eat during pregnancy to get the nutritional benefits of fruits.
Apple
An apple a day keeps the doctor away, right? Yes, of course, because the health benefits of apples are miraculous and remarkable. Hence, it is one of the most recommended fruits to eat during pregnancy.
The essential chemical nutrients present in apples are:
- Calcium
- Insoluble Fiber
- Vitamin C
- Iron
- Vitamin B
All of these nutrients perform specific functions in different ways. For instance:
Apples are a rich source of calcium. Intake of calcium is essential in pregnancy for the proper bone development of the fetus.
The fiber in apples is responsible for improved metabolism and enhanced digestion process.
Vitamin C is a crucial part of the immune system. It builds immunity in both mother and baby.
Besides other nutrients, apple also contains iron. Iron prevents anemia and maintains normal blood levels.
Research shows that apples can protect the unborn baby against asthma and other allergies. Some women might experience heartburn during pregnancy but eating apples during pregnancy alleviate the symptoms of hurt burn and other heart-related problems.
Pomegranate
Eating pomegranate during pregnancy is healthy and beneficial for both mother and baby. Pomegranates effectively prevent pregnancy-related health issues. It contains the following essential nutrients:
- Vitamin K
- Iron
- Protein
- Calcium
- Folate
- Fiber
- Antioxidants
Vitamin K is a component of the immune system. In pomegranates, it is present in excess amounts. Eating pomegranates during pregnancy build and strengthen the immunity of the fetus and mother.
Similarly, iron in pomegranate fills iron deficiency, and calcium promotes bone growth.
Besides providing nutrients, it boosts energy and nourishes the skin. Research shows that drinking pomegranate juice prevents damage to the placenta( the protective covering around the fetus that exchanges nutrients and oxygen between the mother and baby)
The phenolic antioxidants of pomegranate fight stress, prevent
Banana
Banana is one most recommended fruit for children. It contains the following active nutrients:
- Vitamin B-6
- Potassium
- Fiber
- carbohydrates
Vitamin B-6 in bananas relieves vomiting and nausea in the early stages of pregnancy. Carbohydrates are an instant source of energy. Fiber may alleviate pregnancy-related constipation. Potassium in bananas helps in the proper development of the brain and performs other body functions.
Orange
Orange is a rich source of a variety of nutrients. It most commonly contains:
- Vitamin C
- Water
- Folate
Oranges are dense in vitamin C alleviate nausea and have the ability to boost immune functioning. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, that prevents cell damage and promotes iron absorption in the body.
Water in oranges keeps both the body and baby hydrated and well nourished.
Folate, a B vitamin or folic acid, is needed development of the brain and spinal cord of a baby. It prevents the fetus from neural tube defects.
Mango
Mangoes are the most nutritious and sweetest among the fruits. It contains
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
In pregnancy Vitamin A deficiency is common. Mangoes provide vitamin A in dense amounts to prevent pregnancy-related complications, strengthen the immune system, and protect from respiratory diseases.
They also provide Vitamin C, which is an important component of the immune system.
The founder of Health Crescent, Azra Khan is a freelance writer and passionate biochemist with a keen interest in promoting well-being through informed choices and creating health and wellness awareness.