Is It Safe To Eat Garlic During Pregnancy?
Is It Safe To Eat Garlic During Pregnancy?
If you're expecting you need to be very cautious about the food you consume. Garlic is safe to eat during pregnancy but in a moderate amount. It is a herb that gives a delicious taste to dishes and soups. Garlic is highly beneficial for pregnant women due to its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains phytonutrients, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are vital during the pregnancy period. Garlic is low in calories and rich in vitamin C, B6. Garlic is a natural blood thinner. Overconsumption of garlic can adversely affect your health during pregnancy.Are you confused about whether to add garlic to your pregnancy diet or not? How many garlic cloves can you eat?
Don't worry. Find out all the answers and clear your doubts regarding the consumption of garlic while pregnant. Just read this article to know all about consuming garlic during pregnancy.
Health Benefits of Garlic during pregnancy
The amazing health benefits of consuming garlic during pregnancy are:1. Prevent Preeclampsia
Garlic contains a bioactive sulfur compound that is well known for lowering blood pressure. High blood pressure during pregnancy can lead to a pregnancy complication called preeclampsia that can cause many problems such as lowering kidney function, blood clotting. Consuming garlic during pregnancy lowers the chances of high blood pressure and protein retention in the urine. Hence, reduces the chances of developing preeclampsia.2. Prevent Infections
The antioxidant properties and phytonutrient content of garlic help the body to flush out all the harmful toxins thereby prevent the formation of free radicals. Consumption of garlic helps to boost the immune system that tends to become low during pregnancy.
(Also read: Carrots During Pregnancy )
3. Boost Baby's Weight
Garlic helps to boost the birth weight of babies. Research shows that consuming garlic lowers the chances of the baby being born underweight or prematurely. It also helps to reduce the chances of birth complications.4. Maintain Cardiovascular Health
Garlic contains a compound called allicin that is well known for balancing cholesterol levels. Consuming garlic during pregnancy helps to lower cholesterol levels and lowers the risk of developing heart-related issues thereby maintain cardiovascular health.5. Lowers the fatigue
Consumption of garlic helps to lower fatigue that is a very common complication during pregnancy. It also helps to keep dizziness and vomiting at a bay.6. Development of Baby's bones
Calcium is one of the crucial minerals that are vital during pregnancy as it helps in the bone and teeth development of your growing baby.7. Prevent Hair Loss
Many pregnant women suffer hair loss during or after pregnancy. Garlic contains a high content of a sulfur-based compound called allicin that prevents your hair from falling out and also promotes the growth of new hair.Side Effects of Garlic during pregnancy
Garlic provides amazing benefits if eaten in the right amount. Overconsumption of garlic can lead to side effects. The possible side effects due to the overconsumption of garlic are:- Overconsumption of garlic can lead to low blood pressure. Limit its intake if you already have low blood pressure during pregnancy.
- Garlic is well known for thinning the blood. Consuming it in excess amounts can lead to excessive bleeding during labor.
- Consuming garlic in excess amounts can lower the iodine absorption ability of the body that can lead to hyperthyroidism.
- Excess eating of garlic can lead to stomach issues during pregnancy.
- Overconsumption of garlic can cause heartburn during pregnancy.
(Also read: Eating Cauliflower During Pregnancy)
Nutritional Value of Garlic
100 g of garlic contains:| Calories | 149 kcal |
| Fats | 0.5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 33 grams |
| Protein | 6.36 grams |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.1 grams |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 9 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamin) | 0.200 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.110 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 0.700 mg |
| Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) | 0.596 mg |
| Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) | 1.235 mg |
| Vitamin B9 (Folate) | 3 µg |
| Vitamin C | 31.2 mg |
| Vitamin E | 0.08 mg |
| Vitamin K | 1.7 µg |
| Sodium | 153 mg |
| Potassium | 401 mg |
| Iron | 1.70 mg |
| Calcium | 181 mg |
| Copper | 0.299 mg |
| Manganese | 1.672 mg |
| Magnesium | 25 mg |
| Phosphorus | 153 mg |
| Selenium | 14.2 µg |
| Zinc | 1.160 mg |
| Carotene-β | 5 µg |
| Lyutein-zeaxanthin | 16 µg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I eat raw garlic cloves during pregnancy?
Yes, 2 to 4 cloves of garlic every day are safe to be eaten while pregnant. Talk to your doctor before consuming it in raw or any other form and also ask about the right amount of garlic cloves for you to consume during pregnancy.2. How much garlic is safe to eat during pregnancy?
You can consume 2 to 4 cloves of garlic that is approximately 600 to 1200 mg garlic extract daily while pregnant.Garlic is considered safe and highly beneficial for a pregnant woman as it is rich in vitamins and minerals that contribute to the healthy and proper development of the fetus. But always remember to consume it in a moderate amount. Consult your doctor before including this herb in your pregnancy diet.
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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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