Is It Safe To Eat Red Bananas During Pregnancy?

 Red Bananas During Pregnancy -  Health Benefits, Side Effects, Is It Safe

Red bananas provide numerous essential nutrients to the expectant mother and her baby. They're packed with vital nutrients just like yellow bananas. They're a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, magnesium, potassium, and fiber. They contain many nutrients which play a major role in the proper growth and development of the fetus. Read this article to know all about having red bananas during pregnancy.

Health Benefits of Red Bananas during pregnancy

Red bananas are of high nutritional value. They provide many health benefits to both the expectant mother and her growing baby. The amazing health benefits of eating red bananas during pregnancy are:

1. Boost Immunity

Red bananas are a good source of vitamin C that is essential for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C strengthens the cells of the immune system thereby boost your immunity during pregnancy. Red bananas are also a rich source of vitamin B6 that is essential for optimal immune system function. 

2. Lowers Blood Pressure

Red bananas are a great source of potassium and magnesium. Both of these minerals are well known to reduce blood pressure levels. The potassium and magnesium content of red bananas keeps your blood pressure levels under control thereby keeps heart-related issues at a bay and reduces the risk of developing hypertension or cardiovascular diseases.

(Also read: Greek Yogurt During Pregnancy - Is It Safe?)

3. Fetal Brain Development

They're a rich source of vitamin B6 which is essential for your baby's brain development and immune system. It is not only beneficial for the baby but for the expectant mother too. Vitamin B6 is well known to reduce vomiting and nausea which are common complications during pregnancy. You need 1.9 mg of vitamin B6 per day while pregnant. 

4. Good Vision

They contain carotenoids such as lutein and beta-carotene which support eye health. Consumption of red bananas during pregnancy help to promote good vision.

5. Packed with antioxidants

They're fully loaded with powerful antioxidants such as carotenoids, dopamine, vitamin C, and anthocyanins. All these antioxidants help to prevent cellular damage caused due to free radicals. Consumption of red bananas during pregnancy helps to reduce the risk of chronic diseases. 

6. Healthy Digestive Tract

Red bananas contain prebiotics and are a good source of dietary fiber. Both of these helps to prevent constipation, reduces bloating, ease regular bowel movements, and removes inflammation in the gut thereby promotes a healthy digestive tract. 

(Also read: Potatoes During Pregnancy - Are They Safe?)

7. Reduce Cholesterol Levels

They have a low glycemic index that supports healthy blood sugar control and also reduces cholesterol levels. Pregnancy is the time when you feel tired and exhausted and you need additional energy. Eating red bananas while pregnant is extremely beneficial as they're one of the great sources to get instant energy.

8. Healthy Weight Gain

Red bananas are high in fiber and low in fat and calories. The high fiber content of red bananas keeps you full for a longer time thereby promote healthy weight gain. 

Nutritional Value of Red Bananas 

One small red banana (3.5 ounces) contains the following nutrients:

• Calories:  90

• Carbs:     21 grams

• Protein:   1.3 grams

• Fiber:   3 grams

• Fat:   0.3 grams

• Vitamin B6:  28% of the RDI (Reference Daily Intake)

• Vitamin C:   9% of the RDI

• Potassium:   9% of the RDI

• Magnesium:  8% of the RDI

(Also read: 12 Benefits And Side Effects Of Eating Beetroots During Pregnancy)

Side effects of red banana during pregnancy

Red bananas are totally safe for consumption and also contain plenty of essential nutrients too. They provide several health benefits to both the expectant mother and her growing baby. However, consume them in moderation during pregnancy. Overconsumption of bananas can cause some side effects too which are:

• Overconsumption of red bananas can cause excess and unhealthy weight gain during pregnancy.

• Don't consume too many red bananas if you're suffering from gestational diabetes.

• If you're allergic to bananas then avoid consuming them during pregnancy. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the differences between red bananas and yellow bananas?

Red bananas and yellow bananas both are rich sources of fiber. They both are likely similar but still, they have a few differences which include:

• Red bananas contain more vitamin C and a low glycemic index than yellow bananas.

• Red bananas are sweeter, smaller, and denser than yellow ones. They're also higher in some antioxidants too.

2. Can you eat red bananas during pregnancy?

Yes, you can eat red bananas during pregnancy as they are a rich source of numerous vital nutrients that are crucial for you and your baby's growth and development.

3. Is it safe to eat red bananas during pregnancy?

Red bananas are nutritious and good to consume during pregnancy. They're considered safe to consume but remember moderation is the key. Don't overeat them. 

(Also read: Mango benefits and side effect in pregnancy)

4. Is red banana good during pregnancy?

Yes, red bananas are healthy and nutritious. They're a good source of antioxidants, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals which are beneficial for the expectant mother and her little one. 

5. How many red bananas can I eat during pregnancy?

One to two medium-sized red bananas are enough to consume while pregnant.

Red bananas are one of the healthy additions to your pregnancy diet. They're high in dietary fiber and contain powerful antioxidants. Consumption of red bananas during pregnancy is highly beneficial as they are packed with many key nutrients that you required for a healthy pregnancy. They're generally safe to consume but consult your doctor before including them in 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 Headache 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.