Is ber fruit good in pregnancy?
If you are an expecting mother, searching for answers on what to eat and avoid during this crucial time can be overwhelming. Every day, new information is surfacing regarding the benefits or harm of certain foods to your health and that of your baby. With so much to consider, it’s not surprising many women get confused about what they should eat.
One food item that may have caught your attention recently is the ber fruit. This little-known fruit has become a topic of discussion among pregnant women worldwide, with some claiming it offers numerous health benefits while others are concerned about its safety.
In this article, we will explore whether the Ber fruit is good for expectant mothers and if consuming it poses any risks to their pregnancy.
What exactly Is The Ber Fruit?
Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana) also commonly known as Indian Jujube or Chinese date due to its appearance originated from Indian sub-continent but grows across continents ranging from North America all through down under in Australia in tropical climate zones. It belongs botanically to Rhamnaceae family similar cousins include buckthorn(senna), cascara(mouseberry) which possesses purgative effects on human intestines.Attractive Yellow-green berries highly regarded some cultures as the sacred fruits-based on religious tales rather than contemporary health science evidence.
What Nutritional value does it contain?
As with most natural foods, Ber contains various beneficial compounds such as Vitamin C(ascorbic acid), carotenoids like beta-carotene(lutein/zeaxanthin) , fiber, antioxidants such Tannins etc .The FDA label does NOT endorse nutrient claims for non-synthetic plants including BER
| Nutrient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Calories | 40kcal |
| Protein | 1gram/3% DV |
| Total Fat | 0.2grams/1% DV |
| Carbs | 11 grams/12% DV |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.5 grams/23% |
| Sugar | 8gram |
What are the Benefits of Eating Ber Fruit?
Ber fruit is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with numerous beneficial compounds that make it perfect for expectant mothers. Here are some of the proven benefits women who consume this fruit can expect:
Boosts Immunity and helps fight colds
Ber’s high Vitamin C content makes it an excellent source to help ward off illness during pregnancy.
Promotes Digestive Health and Alleviates Constipation
Expecting mothers often experience digestive issues such as constipation due to hormonal changes in their bodies – making their bowel movements very infrequent.
The fiber-containing ber fruits may improve stool regularity while alleviating other stomach troubles like bloating, heartburn or indigestion during pregnancy period.
### Provides Iron Necessary For Healthy Red Blood Cells Production And Development
It is common for pregnant women to be iron deficient (anemia), which lead s symptoms such as fatigue, paleness ,rapid heartbeat etc .Fortunately Ber contains some non-heme iron which along others co-nutrients like vitamin c,zinc,folic acid enhances absorption compared heme sources in meats
### Regulates blood sugar levels and helps manage gestational diabetes
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus(an impaired glucose tolerance)occurs exclusively throughout pregnancies thus might result into excessive weight gain/still birth.The alkaloid compounds contained therein improve glucose homeostasis by breaking down complex carbs slowly preventing spikes on insulin &blood sugars level
### Aids In Fetal Brain Development
A significant number of nutrients play crucial parts in fetal brain development During early trimesters.Therefore ,getting enough folic acid,vitamin k,Vitamins Bs plus anti-oxidants from skin will support overall growth Both In early Embryogenesis Through brain,skeletal organ formation
Supports healthy skin and hair
The high vitamin A content in ber fruits help maintain healthy vision, support reproductive health, immunity & lastly skin health. It supports collagen production, helping with blemishes.Taking Ber Fruits Topically Might stimulate Hair Growth Though no textual evidence
Anti-Cancer Effects
Ber is loaded with cancer-fighting antioxidants like flavonoids,tannins etc.These compounds inhibit proliferation of cancerous cells by reducing DNA oxidative damage
Are There Any Risks to Consuming Ber Fruit During Pregnancy?
While the benefits of consuming this fruit during pregnancy are numerous, there are concerns about its safety since few reliable scientific studies have been conducted on it.
One major concern is that ber fruit contains tannins which can bind minerals such as iron and zinc making them less absorbable. So even though it has a small amount of non-heme iron (iron from plant-origin food sources) – expectant mothers who rely primarily on fruits might limit bioavailability than other dietary sources .
Additionally,Ber Skin produces latex/ sap compounds which causes contact dermatitis resulting In mild inflammatory responses on delicate skins.Excessive consumption might exacerbate symptoms leading more severe allergy-related issues.& Besides these potential side effects, Excess Consumption Of raw BER(inconsistent ripeness level /dosage )may Chance Risk for Diarrhea And Or Upset Stomach To Infants In early day breast fed babies
Lastly ,since the fruit is not very common globally,it’s crucial consider rigorous hygiene practices before/between washing especially in places Where soil contaminants,bacterial or virus infections present pose endemic tropical infectious diseases risk factors
Therefore moderation ingestion amounts will balance up possible risks v benefit ratio trade-offs as well receiving Health Professionals Feedback On Recommended Safe Limits Especially When Breast Feeding
Given their high nutritional value and an array of health benefits, Ber Fruits make an excellent addition to the diet of expectant mothers! As always, it’s imperative you discuss this fruit with your healthcare provider to determine if it is right for you.
While Ber fruits are generally safe, few reliable studies have been conducted on them. If taken in moderation,the potential benefits will likely outweigh its side effects, so go ahead and enjoy a little bit of what nature has blessed us with.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article should not be used as a replacement for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor or nutritionist before making significant changes to your diet during pregnancy.