Even on normal days, we really love to munch and keep on bringing food into our mouth. Hence, it is no doubt that most expectant mothers will have an increased appetite.
However, pregnant mothers tend to get easily exposed to health conditions like constipation, gestational diabetes and anemia. So, what are the superfoods that are good for you and your little baby that can also help satisfy your hunger?
The Superfoods for Expecting Mothers
1. Kale
Kale is a green vegetable from the cabbage family that is filled with nutrients. It is the best source for Vitamin K which helps keep our blood vessel strong and this is very important for pregnant mothers as it helps in blood clotting.
2. Banana
A single banana contains a lot of Vitamin B6 which provides relief from nausea and also cures morning sickness. The vitamin also helps in the development of the baby’s nervous system. Mummies are also in a lower risk of oedema because of the potassium evident in bananas.
3. Avocado
This green filled fruit is filled with 20 different vitamins and minerals. It has an excellent source of Folate which is very good for fetal development and growth. Avocados also have a richer potassium level than bananas.
4. Yogurt
Yogurts are a good alternative for cakes and ice creams which is bad for expectant mothers. It is also high in protein and able to improve the digestive system.
Yogurts also contain Vitamin E which fights pigmentation like dry skin and also dark spots during pregnancy.
5. Carrot
First of all, carrots are rich in Vitamin C which boosts the immune system. It also prevents anemia because it contains both iron and Vitamin C, and Vitamin C helps in the absorption of iron.
Carrots also help suppress our blood sugar at a safe level.
6. Chia seeds
Chia seeds are rich in Calcium, which helps by strengthening babies’ teeth and bones. Two tablespoons of chia seeds has about 152 mg of Calcium.
Chia seeds also help with our digestive system. That is why many people like to drink chia seeds water for better health!
So, instead of drinking just plain water, you can also add some chia seeds into it.
7. Almond
Almonds are not just some ordinary nuts. It can help decrease our hunger hormone which is ghrelin and increase appetite-reducing hormone which is leptin.
Almonds also help with reducing weight for post-pregnancy. Hence, start snacking more on almonds after this!
8. Dates
It is not foreign anymore that dates contain all sorts of minerals that can be found from other foods such as Folate, Vitamin K, Potassium, Iron and Magnesium. It also has Proteins that produce Amino Acids that is essential for body growth.
9. Broccoli
Vitamin A in this vegetable supports eye health along with Beta-carotene. Broccoli also has an addition of Vitamin E, B and K which protects the skin.
10. Pumpkin seeds
Both the fruit and the seeds have its benefits but the seeds can relieve constipation that usually occurs in pregnant women. The seeds are also good for the heart because it contains Potassium, Fiber and also Vitamin C.
Overall, there are lots of superfoods that you can take to ensure the health of both you and your baby but, remember all good things have limits. Don’t overconsume and risk yourself to unexpected health deterioration.