Consuming Jaggery During Pregnancy

Consuming Jaggery During Pregnancy - Nutritional Value, Health Benefits, Side Effects, Is It Safe To Eat

Jaggery is a natural and non-processed form of sugar. Jaggery is a sweetener and a healthy substitute for sugar. It is a type of unrefined sugar that is usually made from sugarcane, date, or palm sap. It is a good source of iron and also contains carbohydrates, protein, minerals. Jaggery also contains a small amount of vitamin B and minerals such as zinc, copper, and phosphorus. A pregnant woman should eat a healthy and nutritious diet to ensure the proper growth and development of her little one. Consuming jaggery during pregnancy is very beneficial.

Nutritional Value of Jaggery

It's essential that you know the nutritional value of the food item before adding it to your pregnancy diet. The nutritional content provided by 100 gm (half of a cup) of jaggery is:

• Calories - 383

• Sucrose - 75 grams

• Fructose and Glucose - 13 grams

• Fat - 0.15 grams

• Protein - 1.05 grams

• Iron - 11 mg

• Magnesium - 70-90 mg

• Potassium - 488 mg

• Manganese - 0.5 mg

(Also read: Health Benefits of eating Nuts during pregnancy)

Health Benefits of Jaggery during pregnancy

Eating jaggery during pregnancy is beneficial as it contains many essential nutrients that are required for the proper growth and development of your unborn baby. The health benefits of jaggery during pregnancy are:

1. Anemia Prevention

Jaggery is a rich source of iron. Iron deficiency can cause anemia during pregnancy. The high content of iron in jaggery helps to prevent anemia. 

2. Purifies Blood

The anti-bacterial properties of jaggery help to cleanse the blood. Jaggery acts as a blood purifier by flushing out waste and toxins from the body. Consuming it in the right amount also contributes to increasing red blood cell count in the blood. 

(Also read: 10 Best And Healthy Drinks You Must Consume During Pregnancy )

3. Promotes Good Intestinal Health

Jaggery is a good source of magnesium. Consuming it on a regular basis leads to good intestinal health.

4. Maintain Electrolytic Balance

Jaggery is a great source of potassium that helps in maintaining electrolytic balance and also reduces edema during pregnancy.

5. Regulates Blood Pressure

Jaggery lowers the sodium level in the body thus regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of developing hypertension, preeclampsia during the pregnancy period. Optimum blood pressure also helps you to reduce the chances of having kidney or heart-related issues.

6. Rich Source of Antioxidants

Jaggery is a rich source of antioxidants and helps to prevent cell damages. Antioxidants also help to prevent infections and boost the immunity of the expectant mother. 

(Also read: Cashew Nuts in pregnancy)

7. Combats Inflammation

The anti-inflammatory properties of jaggery help to fight against inflammation during pregnancy.

8. Enhances Bone Density

Jaggery contains minerals such as magnesium, potassium and both of them help to strengthen the bones. It contains essential minerals that help to improve bone density.

9. Reduces Water Retention

Water retention is one of the most common problems faced by most pregnant women. Jaggery contains potassium that helps to reduce water retention in expecting mothers. It also helps to prevent edema.

10. Mood Enhancer

Mood swings are the result of fluctuating hormone levels in the body during pregnancy. Jaggery helps in releasing feel-good hormones 'Endorphins' and make you feel better.

(Also read: Benefits of Walnuts in pregnancy)

Side effects of Jaggery during pregnancy

Jaggery is recommended to eat during pregnancy as it has several health benefits but consuming it in large amounts can cause side effects too. Some of the side effects caused by the overeating of jaggery are:

Excess Weight Gain

Jaggery is high in calories and consuming it in large amounts can cause excess weight gain during pregnancy.

Increase Blood Sugar Levels

Consuming a high amount of jaggery can lead to an increase in blood sugar levels. So, always remember to eat in a moderate amount. 

(Also read: Coconut Water in pregnancy)

Is it safe to eat Jaggery during pregnancy?

Yes, Jaggery is considered perfectly safe to eat during pregnancy but always consume it in a moderate amount. Overconsumption of jaggery can cause side effects too. 



Also, read other articles:

• Top 15 best fruits to eat during pregnancy

• Benefits of Strawberry during pregnancy

• 12 bad habits to avoid during pregnancy

• Is eating potato beneficial for pregnant women or not?

• Best Pregnancy Diet Tips

• Benefits of eating watermelon in pregnancy

Disclaimer: This content is intended for general information only and it 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.