Is It Safe To Use Olive Oil During Pregnancy?

Olive Oil during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a great phase of your life. During this phase, you've to make healthy food choices to ensure the proper and healthy development of your baby in the womb. You should be cautious about your food choices as whatever you eat has an impact on your little one.

So, if you're confused about whether to use olive oil in your pregnancy diet just read this article. We're going to share all aspects of adding olive oil to your daily pregnancy diet. Read this article to know all about having olive oil while pregnant.

Olive oil is a great source of vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids help to improve the baby's heart health. Using olive oil in your pregnancy diet helps to fade your stretch marks quickly. If you apply olive oil regularly on your expanded belly during pregnancy it even lowers the chances of developing stretch marks.

Is olive oil safe to consume during pregnancy?

Yes, olive oil is perfectly safe to consume during pregnancy. You can add it to your pregnancy diet without any fear as it provides several benefits to both the expectant mother and her unborn baby.

Benefits of Olive Oil during pregnancy

Olive oil provides numerous benefits during pregnancy. Some of the amazing benefits of olive oil are discussed below:

1. Great Source of Vitamin E

The vitamin E content of olive oil helps your baby to adapt better to the air-filled environment outside the womb. After birth, your baby gets it through your breast milk. It is extremely beneficial for premature babies as it helps their kidneys and pancreas to function properly.  Consumption of olive oil by the expectant mother has a positive impact on the baby's height and weight.

(Also read: How to get rid of Stretch Marks from Pregnancy?)

2. Prevent Stretch Marks

Developing stretch marks while pregnant is very common. If you include olive oil in your pregnancy diet and apply it to your belly on a regular basis it helps to reduce the chances of developing stretch marks during pregnancy. And if you even develop stretch marks during pregnancy, applying olive oil on the affected body parts helps to fade them quickly.

3. Prevent Infections

Olive oil is a good source of vitamin A which helps to build a strong immune system during pregnancy. A pregnant woman is more prone to diseases or infections due to low immunity. The vitamin A content present in olive oil helps to keep an expectant mother away from various infections. It helps to promote good vision in pregnant women and is also beneficial for fetal eye development.

4. Promotes Fetal Development

Olive oil is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids help to improve your baby's heart health. The omega-3 content of olive oil contributes to the proper and healthy development of the fetus. Consumption of olive oil while pregnant helps to improve the fetus' brain development. It also helps to improve your baby's learning skills as he/she grows. Consumption of olive oil on a regular basis promotes fetal development.

(Also read: Peanuts during pregnancy)

5. Prevent Cardiovascular Diseases

Consumption of olive oil on a regular basis helps to prevent cardiovascular diseases during pregnancy.

6. Development of fetus' heart and brain

It is a good source of healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids that are required for the proper development of the baby's nervous and immune systems. The healthy fats present in olive oil help in the development of brain cells.

7. Packed with antioxidants

Olive oil is fully loaded with powerful antioxidants and nutrients that fight inflammation. It also helps to protect blood cholesterol from oxidation thus lowering the risk of heart diseases. 

(Also read: Piles during pregnancy)

8. Healthy Digestive Tract

It helps to stimulate your digestive system by making food move smoothly through the colon which helps in speeding up bowel movements and hence prevents constipation. Olive oil helps to keep your digestive tract healthy.

Side Effects of Olive Oil during Pregnancy

When consumed in moderation, olive oil is generally considered safe during pregnancy and does not have any specific side effects. However, it's important to note that excessive consumption of any type of oil, including olive oil, can contribute to weight gain due to its high-calorie content. Here are a few points to consider:

1. Weight gain 

Olive oil is high in calories, containing about 120 calories per tablespoon. Excessive calorie intake can lead to unhealthy weight gain during pregnancy, which may increase the risk of complications. It's important to use olive oil in moderation and be mindful of portion sizes.

2. Digestive issues 

In rare cases, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort, such as diarrhea or upset stomach, after consuming olive oil. If you notice any adverse digestive symptoms, it's best to consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

3. Allergies 

Although rare, some individuals may have allergies or sensitivities to olive oil. If you have a known allergy to olives or have experienced an allergic reaction to olive oil in the past, it's best to avoid its consumption during pregnancy.

It's worth mentioning that olive oil is generally considered a healthy source of fat and has numerous benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet. However, individual reactions can vary, so it's always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized advice based on your specific needs and health status.

How to include Olive oil in your pregnancy diet?

Including olive oil in your pregnancy diet can be a great way to add flavor and healthy fats to your meals. Here are some ways you can incorporate olive oil into your diet:

1. Salad dressings 

Create homemade salad dressings using olive oil as the base. Combine it with vinegar or citrus juice, herbs, and spices for a delicious and nutritious dressing.

2. Cooking 

Use olive oil for sautéing vegetables, grilling, or roasting. It adds flavor and helps prevent sticking. Just be mindful of the smoke point of olive oil (around 375°F or 190°C) and avoid using it for deep-frying or at very high temperatures.

3. Drizzling 

After cooking, drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over your dishes to enhance the flavor. It works well on roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or pasta dishes.

4. Dips and spreads 

Make your own healthy dips and spreads using olive oil. For example, you can blend olive oil with herbs, garlic, and lemon juice to create a flavorful dipping sauce for bread or raw vegetables.

5. Marinades 

Use olive oil as a base for marinades. Combine it with herbs, spices, and other ingredients to marinate meats, tofu, or vegetables before grilling or baking.

6. Baking

In certain recipes, you can substitute butter or other oils with olive oil. It works well in baked goods like muffins, bread, and cakes, adding moisture and a subtle flavor.

Remember to use olive oil in moderation as it is calorie-dense. One tablespoon of olive oil contains approximately 120 calories, so be mindful of portion sizes to avoid excessive calorie intake.

Always opt for extra virgin olive oil when possible, as it is less processed and retains more of its beneficial properties. If you have any specific dietary concerns or medical conditions, it's best to consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.

Olive oil is beneficial and perfectly safe to use during pregnancy but remember to apply or consume it in the right amount. Excess of anything is harmful. So, be cautious about your food choices, especially during pregnancy. And if you're planning to include olive oil for the first time in your diet then consult your doctor before adding it to your pregnancy diet. 



Also, read other health-related articles :

• Pregnancy at 6 weeks - Symptoms, Ultrasound, Baby Development, What to expect, Things to do & Things to avoid

• Pregnancy 8 weeks - Symptoms, Ultrasound, Baby Development, Belly Size & Pregnancy Checklist

• Causes of Heartburn during pregnancy

• Reasons for Headaches during Pregnancy

• How to get relief from vaginal pain during pregnancy?

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.