Oranges are great fruit for pregnant women, but pregnant women should eat in moderation.
Health Benefits Of Eating Oranges During Pregnancy
1. Good Source Of Vitamin C
Oranges are rich sources of vitamin C that boost immune system of the expecting mother during pregnancy.
Vitamin C helps the body in the absorption of zinc and iron which further strengthen the immune system.
Various studies around the world have confirmed that oranges can keep the growing fetus healthy other than strengthening your immune system.
2. Good source of folic acid
Folic acid is an essential vitamin during pregnancy. It helps in the creation of blood cells and aids development of new tissues. Birth weight of the fetus increases with increased intake of folate.
Folic acid also helps prevent neural tube defects in the babies. Oranges contain more than 9% of the recommended amount of folic acid that pregnant women need daily.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Oranges are anti-inflammatory which help treating the conditions like joint problems, arthritis, etc
4. Prevents Hypertension
The high potassium content present in oranges helps prevent high blood pressure in pregnant women as potassium prevents blood clotting.
5. Prevent constipation
Oranges are good source of dietary fiber. Dietary fiber can prevent constipation during pregnancy. Due to hormonal change in body for pregnant women, constipation can occur often during pregnancy. Having sufficient fiber in diet can reduce chance of constipation.
6. Carotenoids
The high carotenoid content in oranges helps in maintaining the respiratory health at optimal levels during pregnancy.
Side effect of oranges
Oranges, when consumed in moderation, is usually harmless. However, When eaten in excess, the greater fiber content can have a negative effect on digestion, causing abdominal cramps and could also lead to diarrhea.
Because oranges are a high-acid food, oranges can contribute to heartburn which is a common complaint experiened by many pregnant women. People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), also called acid reflux disease, may experience heartburn or regurgitation if they eat too many oranges.
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