Pregnancy is a beautiful period. A woman learns a lot of things during this time. The body goes through many transitions to prepare for the comfort of the tiny life growing inside. What an expecting mother thinks, does, and eats during this time directly affects the fetus.
A healthy mom gives birth to a healthy baby. Her nutrition should be met daily without any compromise. The diet consisting of nutrients and minerals must be a part of the mum-to-be's diet. It should include fruits and veggies as they are packed with nutrients.
However, not all fruits and veggies are good for the expecting mother. Some foods have certain bacteria’s and elements that harm the growing baby.
Let us look at the fruits and veggies that should be avoided during pregnancy, according to doctors.
Steer clear of these fruits and vegetables when you are expecting
Fruits and vegetables are nature's gifts to expecting mothers, however, do not put the below-mentioned items in your grocery cart:
Fruits that should be avoided:
1. Papaya
Papaya is loaded with nutrients and fibres that keep your gut healthy and your skin glowing. However, experts believe that papaya should be avoided during pregnancy. This is because of the latex enzyme present especially in unripe or semi-ripe papaya. This enzyme is proven to have stimulated early contractions, which as a result, can lead to early labour. During pregnancy, the immunity system is compromised, making the body prone to diseases and weaknesses. This is why it is best to avoid papaya during pregnancy.
2. Pineapple
Another fruit on our list is pineapple. We know you must be disappointed. But this fleshy sweet treat is not good for the growing baby. Doctors and health experts collectively ask pregnant mothers to avoid consuming pineapple in any form during the first trimester. The first trimester is a delicate period both for the unborn baby and the expectant mother. Consuming pineapple during this period might produce premature contractions of the uterus, which in some cases can even cause miscarriage. This is because the protein-digesting enzyme bromelain in pineapple softens the cervix wall, which can lead to the onset of early labour.
3. Grapes
While grapes contain high levels of Vitamin A and C which are good for pregnant moms, they are best avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy. The external skin of grapes contains a compound called resveratrol that could be toxic to pregnant women. It could even result in irregular development of the baby’s pancreas resulting in a higher probability of the baby developing diabetes later. Grapes are often sprayed with pesticides and there is always a risk of causing health issues in the foetus. Consumption of grapes can also result in constipation. Grapes are therefore best avoided during pregnancy.
Onto Vegetables Now
While those fruits should be avoided during pregnancy, we are not nearly done with our list. Let's take a look at the vegetables that are not good for expecting mommies
1. Sprouts
Raw sprouts have been deemed "unsafe" for pregnant women by doctors and health experts. According to studies, sprouts may include bacteria, including Listeria, Salmonella, and Escherichia coli, which have been linked to harmful effects on both the expecting mothers and the growing baby. Therefore, avoid consuming sprouts if you expecting. Plenty of alternatives are safe for pregnant mothers and growing babies.
2. Radishes
This harmless-looking vegetable that is a staple in every Indian's salad should be avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy. It has great nutritional value but also health hazards for expecting mothers. A pregnant woman who consumes radish in its raw form runs the danger of getting serious illnesses like shigellosis, salmonellosis, and toxoplasmosis. This is because of the enzymes found in raw radishes. These can lead to issues that could endanger the unborn child.
3. Bitter melon
We know you do not like the taste of karela, but now that you are pregnant, you have a valid excuse to avoid it. Bitter melon or karela is not good for expecting women and nursing mothers. It might cause uterine contractions, damage, and fetal bleeding. Bitter melon can also make the muscle of the uterus uncomfortable and induce premature labour. Bitter melon should not be consumed by nursing mothers either since it may pass toxic substances to the infant through breast milk.
Feel like you are missing out? Try these fruits and vegetables instead
Did we make you upset with our list? Don't be sad because there are loads of fruits and vegetables that you can consume during pregnancy. Fruits such as apples, pears, oranges, and mangoes are safe to consume during pregnancy. They are packed with nutrients that make your body stronger and nourish the fetus. These fruits have loads of Vitamin A, C, and E, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and folates.
Along with the above fruits, certain vegetables fulfil the nutrition requirements of an expecting mother. Vegetables such as spinach, mustard greens, fenugreek, beetroot, sweet potato, and tomatoes are good for you when you are pregnant. These vegetables provide iron, folic acid, vita A, and phosphorus to the body.
Some Important Tips to Consider while Consuming Fruits and Veggies
Excess of anything is bad, no matter how nutritious the food is. Make sure you consume every food item in moderation.
Always consult your doctor before trying any new fruit or vegetable and also about the portion of it. Usually, one cup of freshly washed chopped fruits is considered the appropriate portion to feed the expecting mother.
Avoid drinking fresh vegetable and fruit juices as they can cause digestive troubles. If you crave a glass of fresh fruit juice at any time in the pregnancy, you can consume fresh prune juice. It is loaded with nutrients and also relieves constipation.
Only consume fruits and vegetables that have been washed properly. According to researchers, a bacteria named toxoplasmosis found in fertile soil can harm the growing baby's health.
Diabetic pregnant mothers should avoid consuming fruits and vegetables with a comparatively high sugar or fructose content.
Try to consume fruits and vegetables that are rich in fibre. This will help you with constipation and an upset tummy.
Final Thoughts
Pregnancy is difficult but avoiding your favourite food items feels more difficult. Now that you know what to consume and stay away from, you can make healthier choices for yourself and your unborn baby. Instead of focusing on what you cannot eat, focus on the food items you are free to enjoy.
The nine months of pregnancy is a beautiful phase that needs to be enjoyed and cherished as it culminates in the arrival of your little one. There is no need to consume fruits or vegetables that are prohibited by doctors. You would be better off having a nutritious diet that includes all the permitted food items that would help your unborn baby while keeping you full and satiated. The journey of motherhood does begin with some sacrifice, but the outcome is so fulfilling that this is just a temporary blip.
