Having the right nutrition during pregnancy plays an important role as it nourishes the baby and fosters its growth. But, women are surrounded by contradictory advice about what to eat and what to avoid. Eating a variety of fruits like jackfruit, for example, is essential whether you are pregnant or not. In fact, having jackfruit during pregnancy can provide numerous benefits.
Benefits of Eating Jackfruit during Pregnancy
According to myth, consuming jackfruit during pregnancy causes miscarriage. But rest assured it is a sheer myth.
Gynecologists advise eating a variety of fruits during pregnancy. But, you need to monitor the portions you eat and should strictly avoid overeating them. Jackfruits have a distinctive odor, color, and delicious taste. They are loaded with nutrients like vitamin B6, potassium, and more. Jackfruits are a good source of antioxidants too.
Let’s look at the main benefits of eating jackfruit during pregnancy.
1. Increases Immunity
Jackfruit enhances overall immunity and reduces your risk of common infections. It is a rich source of vitamins A, B, and C, which strengthens the immune system.
2. Controls Stress Levels
Jackfruit helps to control your stress levels during pregnancy and lactation.
3. Improves Fetal Development
A good source of vitamin A, jackfruit plays an important role in fetal development, including eye sight, cell development, and mitosis.
4. Regulates Hormone Levels
Pregnancy is a time of many hormonal changes. And, jackfruit helps in regulating hormone levels.
5. Helps with Digestion
Pregnant women often suffer from constipation. The high fiber content in jackfruit helps in digestion and reduces constipation. Also, consuming jackfruit will help you meet the daily requirement of fiber.
6. Normalizes Blood Pressure
Eating jackfruit is usually recommended for pregnant women suffering from high blood pressure.
It is an excellent source of potassium which helps in reducing blood pressure. Eating jackfruit also reduces the risk of heart disease.
7. Promotes Bone Health
The high magnesium content in jackfruit ensures good bone health in the expecting mother and fetus. Eating jackfruit also ensures stronger bones and reduces your chances of developing osteoporosis.
8. Prevents Anemia
Jackfruit has decent amounts iron and folate. So, eating jackfruit helps keep normal levels of hemoglobin and prevents anemia, which is common during pregnancy.
9. Improves Stamina
Jackfruit provides natural sugars like sucrose and fructose, which provide an instant boost of energy. It is also free from any saturated fat and cholesterol which ensures the good health of the expecting mother.
Disadvantages of Eating Jackfruit during Pregnancy
Is it best to avoid eating jackfruit during pregnancy? Can a pregnant woman eat jackfruit?
Unlike the common misconception, jackfruit does not lead to a miscarriage. But, there are some factors to be mindful of when consuming jackfruit during pregnancy.
1. Allergies
Some people might be allergic to jackfruit. So, it is best to avoid this fruit during pregnancy.
If you have never eaten a jackfruit, pregnancy is surely not the right time to experiment. So, you are better off to stay away from it.
2. Stomach Upsets and Diarrhea
Jackfruit has a high fiber content. So, consuming large portions of this fruit could lead to an upset stomach. Furthermore, raw jackfruit during pregnancy can also lead to stomach upset.
3. Blood Coagulation
If you are suffering from blood disorders, pregnancy is not the right time to consume this fruit. It may cause coagulation of the blood.
4. Increases Blood Sugar Levels
Jackfruit, with its abundant natural sugars, can impact blood sugar levels quickly. So, if there is a case of gestational diabetes, jackfruit is not recommended.
5. Increases the Risk of Surgical Complications
If you are undergoing surgery or tissue transplantation, you should refrain from including jackfruit in your diet.
Foods to Eat during Pregnancy
If you are expecting, you should opt for a nutrient-rich and balanced diet. So, in addition to jackfruit, be sure to consume these foods and drinks during pregnancy for optimal overall health and wellness.
1. Dairy Products
These are needed to meet the daily requirement of calcium and proteins. Pro-biotic yogurt, in particular, helps to reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy.
2. Vegetables and Legumes
Sweet potatoes, green leafy vegetables, and legumes provide the much-required nutrients in your daily diet.
3. Whole Grains and Eggs
Whole grains provide you with vitamins, fiber, and a fair amount of protein.
Eggs are incredibly nutritious. They contain many essential vitamins and minerals including vitamin B12.
4. Dry Fruits
Dry fruits are high in fiber and other essential nutrients. But, expecting women should consume small portions of these.
5. Lemon Water
In addition to normal water and coconut water to keep you hydrated, try drinking lemon water as well. It will also help fight morning sickness and provide you with much-needed vitamin C.
Final Word on Having Jackfruit during Pregnancy
It is important to take care of your diet while you are pregnant as you are eating for two. To make pregnancy safer and comfortable, consume a nutrient-dense diet and healthily gain weight with healthy food choices.
That said, it is recommended that you consult your doctor before eating jackfruit during pregnancy. This is especially true if you are not used to eating it or have never eaten it before.
Related:
Sources:
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Oktayani, N., “Health Benefits of Jackfruit During Pregnancy,” VegetaFruit, March 26, 2015; http://www.vegetafruit.com/2015/05/health-benefits-of-jackfruit-during.html, last accessed August 9, 2017.
“10 Benefits And 4 Side Effects Of Eating Jackfruit During Pregnancy,” Being The Parent; https://www.beingtheparent.com/jackfruit-during-pregnancy/, last accessed August 9, 2017.
Santhosh, H., “Jackfruit During Pregnancy – 9 Benefits And 5 Side Effects You Should Be Aware Of,” Mom Junction, July 21, 2015; http://www.momjunction.com/articles/jackfruit-during-pregnancy_00355258/#gref, last accessed August 9, 2017.
“JACKFRUIT,” WebMD; http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-1487-jackfruit.aspx?activeingredientid=1487&activeingredientname=jackfruit, last accessed August 9, 2017.
