While pregnancy is a beautiful time and experience for women, it can be dampened by several dietary limitations. Apricots are one of the few superfoods that are promoted during pregnancy. The fruit is an excellent source of iron, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and E. With so many health advantages, the apricot, a member of the Rosaceae family, can be part of the diet during pregnancy.
Is It Okay to Have Apricots During Pregnancy?
Yes, apricots can be eaten in pregnancy as they are very safe. Given their numerous health advantages, any expectant mother can add apricots in their pregnancy diet. The health benefits of apricots are many, of which some are listed below:
Reduces constipation:
Eating apricots during pregnancy can provide relief from constipation as the fruit is a rich source of fibre. The fibre also helps in the digestion process.
Helps in treating anaemia:
Apricots are rich sources of copper and iron, much-needed nutrients for increasing haemoglobin levels in the blood. Hence, they help prevent and treat anaemia during pregnancy.
Promotes eye health:
The beta-carotene content in apricots is quite significant, which is extremely helpful in enhancing eye health. Your eyes are taken care of when you eat apricots while pregnant.
Maintains blood sugar levels:
This trait must be among the most significant advantages of apricot during pregnancy. Apricots are a valuable food source for controlling blood sugar levels. When you maintain your blood sugar levels during pregnancy, the likelihood of developing gestational diabetes reduces.
Beneficial to your child:
Consuming apricots in moderate amounts is beneficial for the foetus as well. Folic acid in apricots helps protect newborns from congenital disabilities. The vital nutrients in apricots support healthy foetal development.
Nourishes your skin:
Your skin can benefit significantly from apricot consumption during pregnancy, making it fresh, soft, and supple.
Aids in breastfeeding:
Lactating mothers produce more milk after giving birth, thanks to their apricot intake, studies have suggested.
Risks of Consuming Apricots During Pregnancy
The risks and side effects that might result from eating apricots during pregnancy include the following:
- Pregnant women may experience pain and stomach issues if they consume unripe apricots. Apricots may cause allergies as they contain sulphur dioxide. Hence, women allergic to sulphurates may have side effects. When eating apricots, women who are sensitive to sulphur should exercise caution.
- The fruit's tip contains the chemical compound amygdalin, which can cause digestive distress.
Conclusion
It is safe to consume apricots during pregnancy, and they have several health advantages. But while pregnant, one must be careful and not to do over apricot consumption. Maintaining a balanced diet during pregnancy, with caution taken with apricots, benefits both the mother and the child. It is advisable to consider possible risks such as allergies and stomach pain. For any unforeseen medical issues, health insurance might offer financial support.