7 Side Effects Of Eating Almonds During Pregnancy
Side Effects of consuming Almonds during pregnancy
Almonds are a good source of nutrients such as fiber, folic acid, iron, vitamin E, magnesium, zinc, sodium, and many more. All of these nutrients are essential for both the expectant mother and her growing baby. Almonds are considered healthy and safe to consume during pregnancy if taken in moderation but excessive intake of almonds can cause adverse effects on your health.
Some of the side effects caused due to the overconsumption of almonds during pregnancy are:
1. Gastrointestinal Problems
Almonds are a rich source of fiber that is essential for proper digestion. A pregnant woman needs to take at least 28 grams of fiber per day. So, including fiber-rich foods in your pregnancy diet is quite essential to keep your digestive tract healthy. Consumption of high fiber foods helps to keep you away from constipation throughout your pregnancy. Almonds are one of the great sources of dietary fiber and excess intake of almonds may lead to a higher amount of fiber in the body. Eating too much fiber can cause complications for you during pregnancy. Overconsumption of fiber can cause constipation and make you feel bloated, crampy, or gassy. So, always remember to take the recommended amount of fiber in pregnancy.2. Vitamin E Overdose
Almonds are one of the great sources of vitamin E that play a key role during pregnancy. It is a fat-soluble vitamin and acts as a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the cells from the damage caused by the free radicals. Vitamin E is also known as Alpha Tocopherol. It helps to keep your skin and hair healthy throughout your pregnancy period. It also helps your body to create and maintain red blood cells. Vitamin E is also required to strengthens your natural immune system. So, you need to include a healthy dose of vitamin E during pregnancy. Almonds are rich in vitamin E and excess intake of almonds can lead to vitamin E overdose. A pregnant woman needs to take 15 mg of vitamin E per day. If you're taking multivitamin supplements that also consist of vitamin E then in such case you don't need to take additional amounts of vitamin E unless your health care provider recommended you do so. A high dosage of vitamin E can cause complications for you during pregnancy. Overconsumption of vitamin E can increase the chances of bleeding, birth defects, or heart defects in babies.3. Diarrhea
Almonds are an excellent source of dietary fiber. A single ounce (28 grams) of almonds contains 3.5 g of dietary fiber. Fiber helps to keep you away from constipation thereby improve your digestive tract health. The recommended intake of fiber is one of the best ways to keep constipation and digestion issues at a bay. However, overconsumption of fiber can lead to several complications while pregnant such as bloating, diarrhea, or gas.
(Also read: Dehydration Signs and Reasons During Pregnancy)
4. Headache
Almonds are one of the healthiest nuts that are loaded with vital nutrients that your body required to nourish your baby during your pregnancy period. The recommended intake of almonds provides you all the essential nutrients that are present in them. However, excess intake of almonds can cause some problems too. They're a good source of vitamin E and excess intake of almonds may lead to vitamin E overdose that can cause several complications such as headaches, blurred vision, nausea, diarrhea, or lightheadedness. So, always keep in mind that moderation is the key.5. Allergic Reaction
Some women can cause allergic reactions due to the consumption of almonds or some other nuts. The symptoms of allergic reactions caused due to intake of almonds may include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, low blood pressure, shortness of breath, a scratchy or itchy throat, and swelling of tongue, mouth, or lips. If you're allergic to nuts before pregnancy then must consult your doctor before indulging in them during pregnancy.
(Also read: Side Effects of Mango during pregnancy)
6. Excess Weight Gain
A single ounce (28 grams) of almonds contains about 164 calories. Almonds are high in calories and fats. If you consume them in the excess amount it can result in excess and unhealthy weight gain especially if you're physically inactive during your pregnancy period.7. Increased risk of premature delivery
According to some reports, overconsumption of raw almonds during pregnancy can lead to premature delivery.Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the side effects of eating almonds during pregnancy?
Although almonds are among the healthiest nuts to consume while pregnant. They're perfectly safe and provide you several benefits if you consume them in the recommended amount. Excess consumption of almonds can cause some side effects such as vomiting, bloating, constipation, gas, nausea, headache, an allergic reaction, or vitamin E overdose.2. Can I eat almonds in the first trimester?
Yes, almonds are a good source of folic acid, fiber, and many more nutrients that you require for a healthy pregnancy. Folic acid helps to prevent your baby from developing certain birth defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. So, it's good to consume almonds during the first trimester of pregnancy.
(Also read: 13 Amazing Benefits of Prenatal Yoga)
3. How many almonds to eat per day during pregnancy?
A single ounce (28 gram) of almonds is safe to eat per day during pregnancy.4. How to consume almonds during pregnancy?
There are a number of ways to include almonds in your pregnancy diet. Some of the ways to consume almonds during pregnancy are:- Almonds can be eaten raw as a snack. They're one of the healthiest and quick snacks to satiate your hunger pangs while pregnant.
- You can soak almonds overnight and then consume them the next morning. Soaking them will make them a much healthier alternative than the raw ones as it will remove the toxins present in their coat and releases phytic acid that is responsible to slow down the absorption of nutrients in the body. Soaked almonds are much healthier than raw ones. So, it's best to consume soaked almonds during pregnancy.
- You can make almond butter at home or can buy it from the store. It is fully packed with monosaturated fat, protein, fiber, and many more vital nutrients.
- Almond milk is highly nutritious and is a good choice for those expectant mothers who're lactose intolerant or dairy allergic.
- Slice almonds and use them as a crunchy topping for desserts, salads, or smoothies.
5. Is it safe to eat raw almonds during pregnancy?
Yes, raw almonds are safe to consume during pregnancy. But if you're allergic to nuts then it's better to consult your doctor first before adding them to your pregnancy diet.6. Which one is better during pregnancy - Soaked Almonds or Raw Almonds?
Both forms of almonds are packed with nutrients and it's good to them consume during pregnancy but soaked almonds are much healthier than the raw ones. Soaking almonds overnight removes the phytic acid and neutralizes tannin.
(Also read: Sweet Potato During Pregnancy)
7. Is it good to eat almonds on an empty stomach during pregnancy?
Yes, you can eat soaked almonds on an empty stomach as they're healthy and packed with numerous nutrients.8. Is it safe to eat almonds during pregnancy?
Almonds are totally safe to eat during pregnancy. They're a great source of fats, fiber, folic acid, beta carotene, calcium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, and many more vital nutrients that are required for a healthy pregnancy. However, if you're allergic to nuts or almonds before pregnancy then it's better to consult your doctor before consuming them during your pregnancy phase.Almonds are good to consume while pregnant but in the recommended amount. Excess intake of almonds will result in undesirable side effects that may lead to several other complications. So, it's best to take them in a moderate amount.
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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.
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