10 Benefits And Side Effects of Almond Milk During Pregnancy
Almond Milk During Pregnancy - Health Benefits, Side Effects, And Precautions
A pregnant woman needs to eat a healthy and well-nutritious diet for the optimum nourishment of her little one. Almond milk is a healthy drink option for those expectant mothers who are lactose intolerant or dairy allergic. It is a plant-based beverage made up of filtered almonds and water. It is naturally dairy and lactose-free which makes it a good option for vegans as well. If you don't like dairy milk then almond milk can be a good alternative for you.
Nutritional Value of Almond Milk
It is very low in calories compared with cow's milk. It contains various nutrients and is an excellent source of Vitamin E. It is low in protein and is commonly fortified with Vitamin D and calcium while processing. One cup (240 ml) of unsweetened, unfortified almond milk contains the following nutrients :- Calories: 30
- Sugar : < 1 g
- Fat : 3 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Carbs: 1 g
- Fiber : < 1g
- Calcium : 481 mg
- Vitamin D : 0 g
- Vitamin B12 : 0 g
- Potassium : 163 mg
10 Amazing Health Benefits of Almond Milk During Pregnancy
It is a great source of Vitamin E. It also contains several nutrients that play a key role in a healthy pregnancy. It's safe to have almond milk during pregnancy. Some of the amazing health benefits provided by almond milk while pregnant are:1. Excellent Source of Vitamin E
Almond milk is a rich source of vitamin E which is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps to protect your body cells from free radical damage. It also helps to promote eye and skin health. It works as an antioxidant and helps to reduce oxidative stress during pregnancy. Vitamin E also helps to lower your risk of developing serious health conditions such as stroke, heart disease, and even cancer.2. Good Source of Magnesium
Almond milk is a good source of magnesium, a mineral that is essential to regulate blood pressure levels and support muscle relaxation thereby making delivery less painful. This mineral also helps to alleviate leg cramps and prevent premature uterine contractions. It also helps to strengthen your baby's bones and teeth. Lack of magnesium can lead to chronic fatigue, muscle contractions, leg cramping, and even premature uterine contractions. So, to avoid all these complications it's essential to take a magnesium-rich diet during pregnancy.3. Regulate Blood Sugar Levels
Unsweetened almond milk is low in sugar and carbohydrates. It has a low glycemic index which makes it a good option to keep blood sugar levels under control.4. Prevent Osteoporosis
Almond milk is fortified with calcium which is an essential mineral to keep your bones strong and also helps your body to fight osteoporosis during pregnancy.5. Healthy Heart
It contains omega-3 fatty acids which are crucial for fetal neurodevelopment. They also play a major role in determining the length of gestation and in preventing perinatal depression. These fatty acids are vital in pregnancy as they're building blocks of the fetal brain and retina. They also help to keep your heart healthy.6. Good option for vegans
Almond milk is a good option for vegans as it doesn't contain any animal by-products. So, if you're vegan then almond milk is a good choice for you.7. Contain Vitamins
It is a good source of vital vitamins such as vitamin A, B12, E, and D. All these vitamins play a key role in a healthy pregnancy. Vitamin A is crucial for the immune system, visual health, and fetal growth and development. Vitamin B12 helps to maintain the health of your nervous system. Vitamin E keeps your skin and hair healthy. Almond milk contains antioxidants that help to reduce oxidative stress during pregnancy.8. Healthy Skin
It is a great source of Vitamin E which helps to make your skin healthy and keeps you away from skin problems in pregnancy.9. Prevent Gestational Diabetes
Unsweetened almond milk has a low glycemic index that helps to keep your blood sugar levels under control thereby reduces your risk of developing gestational diabetes.10. Long Shelf Life
Almond milk is easy to store. It has a long shelf life in comparison to cow's milk. You don't need to store it in the refrigerator. You can easily carry it if you're planning to travel long distances during pregnancy.Side Effects of Almond Milk during pregnancy
Although almond milk is healthy and contains several nutrients. If you also want to add it to your pregnancy diet there are some things to look out for :1. Lack of Protein Content
Almond milk contains low protein content in comparison to cow milk or soy milk. Protein is very essential for a healthy pregnancy. It plays a major role in the optimal growth and development of the fetus. Protein provides amino acids for the development of bones, cells, and muscles. Taking an adequate amount of protein during pregnancy also helps to reduce neonatal complications. Some of the good sources of high protein include fish, seafood, poultry, dairy products, beans, nuts, and seeds.2. May contain Additives
Processed almond milk can contain additives such as sugar, salt, guar gum, flavorings, and the thickening agent called carrageenan. All these ingredients are not good for you especially during pregnancy if you've them in high quantities.3. Low in fat and calories
It is low in fat and calories. Limiting your calories and nutrients during pregnancy can lead to low birth weight, development delays, and even health complications later in life.4. Unhealthy Weight Gain
Many sweetened and flavored almond milk contain high sugar that can increase your risk of excess weight gain, dental problems, gestational diabetes. To avoid such complications choose unsweetened and unflavored varieties of almond milk while pregnant.5. Allergic reactions
If you're allergic to nuts then it's better to avoid taking almond milk while pregnant as it might be possible that you may experience allergic reactions.6. Contain Goitrogen
Almonds contain goitrogens which are well known to suppress the functioning of the thyroid gland. Although its impact is minimal, if you're already suffering from any kind of thyroid dysfunction then almond milk won't be safe for you.Precaution to be taken while having Almond Milk during pregnancy
Some of the precautions that you should take while having almond milk during pregnancy are:- Choose almond milk which is unsweetened, unflavored, and without any added thickeners such as guar gum, emulsifiers, and carrageenan.
- Always check labels while buying almond milk as brands may differ a lot.
- Opt for those brands of almond milk that are pasteurized or heat-treated, fortified with vitamin D and calcium.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How to choose the best almond milk during pregnancy?
Almond milk is undoubtedly healthy and contains various nutrients but remember to choose an unsweetened and unflavored variety of it. During pregnancy, choose that variety of almond milk that is unsweetened, unflavored, and fortified with calcium and Vitamin D. Unsweetened varieties of almond milk are naturally low in sugar and calories while providing plenty of Vitamin E while pregnant. If you want to enjoy almond milk you can go for an unsweetened and unflavored variety for sure but don't forget to add protein-rich foods such as eggs, chicken, nuts, seeds, seafood, and beans to your pregnancy diet.2. Is almond milk good for pregnant women?
Yes, almond milk is good for pregnant women. It's much better for you if you choose that variety of almond milk that is unsweetened, unflavored, and without added thickeners.If you want to include almond milk in your pregnancy diet make sure to consult your health care provider. If your doctor gives you a green signal then go for it and add this amazing healthy drink to your pregnancy diet.
Watch this video to know the benefits and side effects of having Almond Milk during pregnancy.
https://youtu.be/xTFutIqa0k8
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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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