Pistachios (Pista) During Pregnancy - Beneficial Or Harmful?
13 Wonderful Benefits of Pistachios During Pregnancy
Health Benefits of Pistachios During Pregnancy
Pistachios are extremely nutritious and provide several health benefits to both the expectant mother and her growing baby. Some of the amazing health benefits of consuming pistachios while pregnant are:1. Rich in Protein
Pistachios are a rich source of protein that plays a key role in fetal development. It ensures the proper growth of your baby's tissues, muscles, and organs including the brain. They have a higher content of essential amino acids, the building blocks of protein when compared to other nuts such as walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts.2. Good Vision
Pistachios are a great source of antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin. Both of these substances are essential for your eye health. Thus including pistachios in your diet help to promote good eye health.(Also read: Benefits of Cabbage During Pregnancy)
3. Promote Gut Health
Pistachios are a good source of fiber that helps to prevent constipation and encourages a healthy digestive system by moving food through the gut.4. Healthy Weight Gain
Pistachios are low in calories but high in fiber and protein content which keep you full for a longer time thereby help to prevent excess weight gain during pregnancy.5. Good Heart Health
Consumption of these nuts during pregnancy helps to prevent the risk of cardiovascular diseases. They help to reduce high blood pressure levels thereby protect your heart from diseases and promote good heart health.6. Regulates Blood Pressure Levels
They have a low-glycemic index and consuming them when pregnant helps to regulate blood sugar levels and reduces the risk of developing gestational diabetes.7. Immunity Booster
Pistachios contain an ample amount of antioxidants such as vitamin A, vitamin E, carotenes that help to boost your immunity while pregnant.8. Prevent Swelling
The anti-inflammatory properties of pistachios help to alleviate joint pain and swelling which are common complications faced by most pregnant women.9. Rich in B Vitamins
Pistachios contain an adequate amount of B vitamins such as riboflavin, niacin, folate, thiamin which play a major role in fetal development.10. Promote Fetal Brain Development
These super healthy nuts are a wonderful source of omega-3 fatty acids such as oleic and linoleic acid, which play a key role in fetal brain development.11. Maintains Lipid Levels
They contain monosaturated fats that are well known to reduce the levels of bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol levels hence balance lipid levels.(Also read: Eating Peanuts (Groundnuts) During Pregnancy)
12. Prevent Anemia
These crunchy nuts are a great source of iron, an essential mineral that promotes the formation of red blood cells. Consumption of pistachios while pregnant helps to prevent anemia, a condition caused due to the deficiency of iron.13. Rich in Antioxidants
These delicious nuts are a great source of antioxidants than most other nuts and seeds. Antioxidants play a vital role in a healthy pregnancy. Antioxidants help to prevent cell damage and also reduces the risk of cancer. They contain polyphenols and tocopherols that help to prevent cancer and heart-related diseases.Nutritional Value of Pistachios
The nutritional value for 100 g of pistachios:
Nutrient Value of Pistachios per 100 g
Principle | Nutrient Value |
---|---|
Energy | 557 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 27.97 g |
Protein | 20.60 g |
Cholesterol | 0 mg |
Dietary Fiber | 10.3 g |
Fat | 44.44 g |
Vitamins | |
Vitamin A | 553 IU |
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.870 mg |
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavine) | 0.160 mg |
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 1.3 mg |
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) | 0.520 mg |
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) | 1.7 mg |
Vitamin B9 (Folates) | 51 µg |
Vitamin C | 5 mg |
Vitamin E | 22.60 mg |
Minerals | |
Calcium | 107 mg |
Iron | 4.15 mg |
Copper | 1.3 mg |
Magnesium | 121 mg |
Manganese | 1.2 mg |
Phosphorus | 376 mg |
Selenium | 7 µg |
Zinc | 2.20 mg |
Electrolytes | |
Sodium | 1 mg |
Potassium | 1025 mg |
Phyto-nutrients | |
Carotene-ß | 332 µg |
Crypto-xanthin-ß | 0 µg |
Lutein-zeaxanthin | 0 µg |
Side Effects of Pistachios During Pregnancy
1. Digestion-Related Issues
Pistachios contain fructans that can cause several digestion issues such as bloating, abdominal pain, flatulence, constipation, and diarrhea.2. Allergic Reaction
Pistachios contain a chemical compound called anacardic acid which can cause allergic reactions such as itching or rashes to those who're allergic to nuts. In case you're allergic to nuts it's best to talk with your health care provider before adding them to your diet.3. Increase Blood Pressure Levels
Roasted pistachios contain more sodium as they're coated with salt and eating them in excess can raise your blood pressure levels. Hence, it's best to have their plain and unsalted variety during pregnancy.Ways to include Pistachios in pregnancy diet
-> You can add them to your fruit salad or in your dishes.
-> You can make a milkshake or smoothie by adding pistachios or other dry fruits of your choice.
-> You can use them as a topping for your dishes or desserts.
-> Finely dice or crush some pistachios and sprinkle them in your oatmeal, cereals, yogurt, or any other dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it safe to eat pistachios during pregnancy?
(Also read: Benefits of Eating Walnuts During Pregnancy)
2. What are the possible side effects of pistachios during pregnancy?
3. What are the benefits of pistachios during pregnancy?
4. How many pistachios can I eat in a day while pregnant?
5. Can I eat pistachios during pregnancy?
6. Is it good to eat pistachios during pregnancy?
7. What happens if I eat too many pistachios during pregnancy?
-> Digestive Issues
-> Allergic Reactions
Pistachios are considered one of the healthiest nuts and offered many health benefits which are required for a healthy pregnancy. They're crunchy, delicious, and packed with essential nutrients that are crucial for the healthy growth and development of the fetus. You can have them in pregnancy as well but make sure to eat them in limited quantities. Consult your doctor before adding them to your daily pregnancy diet.
Congratulations on your pregnancy. Enjoy this wonderful and unforgettable journey of your life. May God bless you and your little one.
Also, read other pregnancy-related articles:
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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