24/09/2020
Benefits of Eating Bananas During Pregnancy
Fruits are healthy and should be a part of diet especially during pregnancy. Some of the benefits of eating bananas during pregnancy are mentioned below.
1. Provides Relief From Vomiting and Nausea
Bananas are a rich source of Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine. Vitamin B6 can cure nausea and morning sickness. Hence, eating bananas, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy is particularly recommended to women.
2. Helps Lower the Risk of Oedema
Many pregnant women experience oedema or water retention in the second and third trimesters of their pregnancies. Oedema can lead to swelling of the ankles, feet, and other joints. If you notice swelling in the joints or ankle, avoid consuming salty foods and include banana in your diet; it will help lower the swelling.
3. Gives a Quick Energy Boost
Bananas are high in carbohydrates as they contain simple sugars like glucose, fructose, and sucrose that can be metabolised quickly by the body to provide an immediate energy boost. During the last trimester of pregnancy, eating bananas can give you a quick energy boost. So, keep this fruit handy. Eating bananas will even help you fight fatigue and increase your energy levels.
4. Lowers the Chances of Birth Defects in the Baby
Bananas are a good source of folate, which is necessary for the development of the baby’s brain and spinal cord. Eating bananas during pregnancy improves folate levels in the body thus lowering the chances of folate deficiency, which is known to cause birth defects in the baby.
5. Help in the Development of the Baby’s Nervous System
Bananas are a rich source of the water-soluble Vitamin B6, which is necessary for the development of the central nervous system of the baby. Thus, regular consumption of bananas in the first trimester of pregnancy can prove beneficial for his brain development too.
6. Provides Relief From Constipation
Bananas contain a high amount of dietary fibre, which helps in stimulating the bowel movements and reduce bloating in the stomach caused by gas. A medium-sized banana contains about 6 grams of fibre. Constipation is a common problem during pregnancy and that’s why eating this easily available fruit can help. Eating bananas can improve bowel movements, thus providing relief from constipation.
7. Helps Maintain Blood Pressure
Bananas are a rich source of potassium. It is an essential mineral that controls blood pressure levels in the body. You can include banana in your diet and prevent fluctuations in your blood pressure levels.
8. Helps in the Bone Development
Bananas are an excellent source of calcium, which is necessary for the development of bones in both the baby and the mother. Calcium is also necessary for the regulation of muscle contraction in the body so include this fruit in your pregnancy diet.
