Figs During Pregnancy - Health Benefits, Side Effects
Figs During Pregnancy - Health Benefits, Side Effects, Safe Or Unsafe, and How to eat Dried Figs
Fig is a nutritious fruit with numerous health benefits. It contains essential nutrients that are required for the better nourishment of the baby in the womb. Figs provide many health benefits to the expectant mother as well as her unborn baby. Figs contain nutrients such as dietary fiber, vitamin B6, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, protein, calcium, potassium, zinc, copper, carbohydrates, and many more which are crucial during pregnancy for the growth and development of the fetus. You can consume it directly or can add it to a salad or any other dish to make it a nutritious snack option during pregnancy. It is one of the most healthy and nutritious snack options which you can choose to satisfy your hunger pangs during pregnancy.
Health Benefits of Figs during pregnancy
The health benefits of eating figs during pregnancy are:1. Prevent Fatigue and Anemia
Figs are an excellent source of iron which reduces the risk of developing anemia during pregnancy. Anemia occurs due to iron deficiency in the body. It also helps to prevent fatigue during the pregnancy period.2. Strengthen Bones and Teeth
Fig is a good source of Calcium which is required for strengthening the bones and teeth of the expectant mother during the pregnancy period. Figs help in boosting the levels of calcium in the body.
(Also read: Benefits of Pregnancy after the age of 30)
3. Improves Digestion
Figs are a rich source of dietary fiber that helps to regulate bowel movements and reduce indigestion problems such as bloating and constipation which are very common complications faced by most women while pregnant. Hence the content of dietary fiber in figs helps to improve digestion during pregnancy.4. Prevent Birth Defects
Figs contain folate which is very crucial during pregnancy. Folate is very essential for a pregnant woman as it helps in preventing birth defects in babies.5. Improves Overall Health
Figs are a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and all of these are required to improve the overall health of the body, especially during the pregnancy period. It also improves blood circulation and is used to treat various skin problems. So, it makes skin healthy and beautiful.6. Prevent Osteoporosis
Figs are a good source of calcium which helps to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis during pregnancy. Osteoporosis is a medical complication that makes the bones weak and brittle.
(Also read: Complications due to High BP during pregnancy)
7. Regulates Blood Pressure Levels
Figs contain a high content of potassium which helps in regulating blood pressure levels. It reduces the risk of developing hypertension during pregnancy by lowering blood pressure levels. The content of potassium in figs helps to prevent preeclampsia during pregnancy.8. Promotes Optimal Development of Fetus
Figs are an excellent source of Omega-3 fatty acids which play an essential role in the optimal development of the fetus.9. Prevent Melasma
Melasma is a skin problem that causes brown or gray-brown patches on the face and it's a cause of concern in expectant mothers. Figs contain a chemical called Psoralens which is known to treat various skin problems. So, eating figs during pregnancy will help in treating the problem of Melasma.10. Reduce the risk of Heart-Related Issues
Figs contain a good amount of potassium which helps to keep the heart healthy and reduces the risk of heart-related issues by regulating blood pressure levels.
(Also read: Tips to look beautiful post-delivery)
11. Promotes Bone Development
Figs contain a high content of Calcium which is required for the bone development of the fetus. The calcium content of fig also helps in the development of strong teeth and bones of the fetus.12. Maintain Cholesterol Levels
Figs contain Phytotesterol, Omega 3, Omega 6 fatty acids, and all of these healthy compounds are well known to reduce cholesterol levels in the body. These healthy compounds keep arteries healthy and flexible.13. Alleviate Morning Sickness
Most of the women faced the problem of morning sickness especially in the first trimester of pregnancy. Figs contain Vitamin B6 which helps to alleviate morning sickness during the pregnancy period.14. Healthy Nervous System
Figs contain Vitamin B6 that increases the production of amino acids, proteins, fats in the body. Vitamin B6 is required for brain development and the healthy nervous system of the fetus.
(Also read: Health Benefits of eating Avocados during pregnancy)
15. Powerhouse of Antioxidants
Figs are fully loaded with antioxidants that neutralize the free radicals in the body and fight against diseases.16. Boosts Energy
Figs contain carbohydrates which is crucial to increase the energy levels of the body. Adding figs to a pregnancy diet to boost energy levels is a good idea. It makes you feel energetic for a longer time.Side Effects of Figs during pregnancy
The side effects of eating figs during pregnancy are:1. Skin Problems
However, figs are very healthy to eat during pregnancy but overeating of figs can lead to skin problems such as Photodermatitis. Figs contain a high content of a chemical called Psoralens which helps to treat skin problems but if a high amount of psoralens enter into the body then it can lead to photodermatitis. So, eating figs in a moderate amount is a must.2. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
Figs lower the blood sugar levels. It can be beneficial for diabetic persons but not for those people who are already suffering from low blood sugar levels.3. Allergic Reactions
If you're allergic to figs then it can cause conjunctivitis. So, it's better for you to avoid eating figs during pregnancy.4. Stomach Ache
Overconsumption of figs can lead to stomach-related problems such as stomach ache or bloating during pregnancy.5. Loose Stool or Diarrohea
Overconsumption of figs can lead to loose stool or diarrhea due to its laxative effect.Is it safe to eat Figs during pregnancy?
Yes, figs are totally safe to eat during pregnancy. Fresh and dried both types of fig fruits are healthy and safe to eat while pregnant. Figs are one of the healthiest fruits and it's beneficial to eat it during pregnancy.Are Dried Figs good for a pregnant lady?
Yes, dried figs are perfectly safe to consume during pregnancy. Dried Figs contain a high content of Omega-3 fatty acids which are crucial for the growth and development of the fetus.How to eat Figs during pregnancy?
You can eat raw and fresh figs or dried figs. You can either eat fresh figs directly or can add them to a salad or in any other dish. You can include figs in milkshakes as well.
(Also read: Which foods to avoid during pregnancy?)
Are Figs harmful during pregnancy?
No, figs are not harmful during pregnancy if eaten in a moderate amount. Don't consume them in an excess amounts as they can cause several side effects during pregnancy.How many Figs to eat in a day during pregnancy?
You can eat 1-3 figs in a day during pregnancy. Don't eat them in excess amounts as they can cause adverse effects, especially during pregnancy.How to eat Dried Figs during pregnancy?
- You can eat dried figs directly or can consume figs after soaking them in water overnight.
- You can also consume them by soaking them in milk.
- You can add dried fruits to your soup also to make it much healthier and to enhance its taste.
- You can add chopped dried figs in yogurt, cereals, oatmeal, or ice cream as well.
- You can even bake them with your favorite dishes.
Health Benefits of Dried Figs during pregnancy
The health benefits of eating Dried Figs during pregnancy are:
- Dried Figs contain a high amount of calories than fresh figs.
- Dried figs contain an antioxidant called Phenol which helps to reduce the risk of heart-related issues. Phenol also helps to reduce the risk of various types of cancer.
- Dried figs are rich in vital vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K and minerals such as zinc, phosphorus, potassium, iron. All of these are crucial for the overall development of the body.
- Dried Figs are a high-calorie fruit that is a rich source of fiber that helps to make you feel full for a longer time and also helps to relieve constipation.
- Dried Figs contain a high content of Mucilage which helps to heal a sore throat.
(Also read: Is Pineapple safe to eat during pregnancy?)
Is Fig juice good during pregnancy?
Yes, fig juice is good to consume during pregnancy as it provides numerous health benefits. If you don't like the taste of fresh fig or dried fig you can try fig juice during your pregnancy period.Figs are highly nutritious and provide lots of essential nutrients which are required during pregnancy. But every pregnancy is different so it's better that you consult with your doctor before adding figs in your pregnancy diet.
Here's wishing you a very healthy and safe pregnancy. Best wishes to you. May God bless you and your little one.
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Disclaimer: This content is intended for general information only and should not be used as the basis of patient treatment. The given content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, treatment, or any diagnosis. Always consult a doctor for more information. Our website doesn't claim responsibility for this information.
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