Pumpkins and pumpkin seeds can help control blood sugar (goodbye gestational diabetes!), Are good for the gut, and contain a number of things that are beneficial for the developing fetus. Check out these five benefits of pumpkin and pumpkin seeds during pregnancy.
5 BENEFITS OF PUMPKIN AND PUMPKIN SEEDS
1. AN EXCELLENT SOURCE OF VITAMINS AND MINERALS
The pumpkin is full of vitamins and minerals. Probably evident from the orange color, pumpkin is high in beta-carotene, so eating pumpkin can easily help pregnant women meet their daily vitamin A needs. Pumpkin is also a good source of iron, which prevents anemia during pregnancy and may help reduce the risk of preterm labor. It also contains vitamin C, which helps in the absorption of iron and is a good stimulant of the immune system. They are also a good source of vitamin B6, protein, zinc, and are loaded with antioxidants, which help boost immunity levels and protect against infections.
In terms of nutrition, 100 grams of pumpkin contains around 26 calories and is free of cholesterol and saturated fat. This means that pumpkin is a great snack option or can be added to a meal as a great source of these important vitamins and minerals.
Pumpkin seeds are also packed with beneficial nutrients during pregnancy. The benefits of pumpkin seeds vitamins and minerals include omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and magnesium. These are the perfect mid-afternoon snacks that will not only ward off hunger but also help meet those important nutritional needs.
2. HELPS REGULATE SUGAR IN BLOOD
Perhaps one of the most surprising benefits of pumpkin and pumpkin seeds is that their consumption is effective in helping to regulate blood sugar levels during pregnancy thanks to the potassium and magnesium they contain. Low levels of magnesium are common in people with insulin resistance, which is one of the reasons diabetes occurs. Some sources recommend that pregnant women consume around 350 mg of magnesium per day, and a single ounce of pumpkin seeds contains 168 milligrams (mg) of magnesium.
It is important to note that to take full advantage of this benefit, pumpkin should be consumed without the addition of additional sugar.
3. GOOD FOR DIGESTION
Because it is high in fiber, which is known to help people stay "regular," consuming pumpkin may help relieve the constipation that pregnant women often experience due to hormonal changes. It can also help reduce abdominal cramps that can sometimes occur during pregnancy.
Relieving constipation can also have the great side effect of avoiding the hemorrhoids that often accompany it!
4. HEALTH CUR
Eating pumpkin during pregnancy is good for your heart because the fiber, potassium, and vitamin C in pumpkin support heart health. The potassium and antioxidants in pumpkin can help prevent heart disease and have a positive effect on blood pressure. It can also help control cholesterol levels during pregnancy.
Studies suggest that getting enough potassium can be almost as important as reducing your sodium intake in treating high blood pressure. Increased potassium intake is also associated with a reduced risk of stroke.
5. GOOD FOR FTAL DEVELOPMENT
The health benefits of pumpkin and pumpkin seeds aren't just for mom. They also apply to fetal development. The beta-carotene found in pumpkin contributes to the development of the heart, lungs, bones, eyes, kidneys, nerves, and circulatory system of the fetus. Iron helps carry oxygen to the fetus. Zinc helps in brain development. The omega-3 fatty acids in pumpkin seeds contribute to the development of the central nervous system of the fetus.
There are so many great benefits of pumpkin and pumpkin seeds during pregnancy that they should definitely be considered for any prenatal diet. Another good news is that eating pumpkin and pumpkin seeds during pregnancy has few side effects; However, be sure to talk to your doctor before making any changes to your diet or if you have any concerns.
Pumpkin is very easy to include in meal planning. Add pumpkin to oatmeal in the morning for breakfast. Grilled pumpkin seeds for the perfect midday snack. You can even roast squash for a delicious side dish to accompany your dinner.
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