Is Broccoli Good For Pregnancy?

As a mom-to-be, you must be going through a lot of hustle and bustle as you plan to bring a new life into this world. Questions like what to eat, what not to eat, what to wear, and what to avoid must be clouding your mind. Among these questions, if one leaves you wondering: is broccoli good for pregnancy, the answer is certainly yes. Broccoli is a superfood packed with essential vitamins and minerals that secure your baby’s health. From preventing congenital abnormalities to promoting good cardiac health, broccoli has a lot to offer. Keep reading the blog further to know why you should not miss broccoli in those marvellous nine months.

Is it okay to have Broccoli during pregnancy?

The following factors will establish the argument in favour of including broccoli in your dietary intake during pregnancy.

• Antioxidant properties

Broccoli contains antioxidants, such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, and flavonoids, which shield your cells from harmful free radicals. It is your child’s shield against chronic diseases.

• Enhances immunity

A good immune system is essential for both the mother and the child. Broccoli is loaded with vitamin C and compounds, such as diindolylmethane and indole-3-carbinol, which help enhance immunity. 

• Rich in folate

Vitamin B9, also known as folate, is crucial for the development of your baby’s brain and spinal cord. Broccoli is a rich source of folate. Folate in broccoli prevents developmental disabilities in offspring, such as birth defects of the spinal cord and brain. 

• Prevents constipation

Irregular bowel movements often accompany pregnancy. If you are also struggling with a similar condition, broccoli is the solution. Sulforaphane, found in broccoli, regulates bowel movements and improves gut health. The high fibre content in broccoli aids in digestion as well.

• Reduces symptoms of preeclampsia

Gestational hypertension usually develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy. If left untreated, it might lead to severe complications during childbirth. Sulforaphane, a compound found in broccoli, regulates high blood pressure and endothelial function in pregnant women.

• Prevents anaemia

The National Family Health Survey (NFHS-V) estimates that approximately 52.2% of pregnant women in India suffer from iron deficiency. Broccoli is rich in iron and helps reduce the chances of anaemia during pregnancy. The presence of vitamin C also helps in the efficient absorption of iron by the body. 

• Prevents gestational diabetes

Blood sugar levels often soar during the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy. Certain hormones, such as oestrogen and cortisol, block the absorption of insulin in the placenta, adversely impacting your baby’s health. Broccoli, a non-starchy vegetable, helps maintain blood sugar levels during pregnancy.

Conclusion

Broccoli is not only good for pregnancy but also a powerhouse of essential nutrients to keep your baby healthy during breastfeeding. While you put broccoli in your shopping basket, don’t forget to invest in health insurance. As you plan for every stage of your pregnancy, remember that a healthcare plan offering maternity coverage can help you have a stress-free pregnancy journey. A comprehensive health insurance policy provides financial support during adverse circumstances and helps your family sail past pregnancy-related complications and other medical emergencies.