12 Best Fruits to Eat During Pregnancy

“A new baby is a miraculous gift that brings great fulfilling pure joy.”

– Wayne Chrisa

Are you an expecting mother or planning to get pregnant? If so, then you have a whole world of surprises ahead of you.

Bringing a new baby into the world is an immense responsibility. When you become pregnant, you are not only responsible for your own life but also that of your baby. It goes without saying that a well-balanced diet is of paramount importance for a pregnant mother. A healthy diet includes fruits, vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats. A nutritional diet is key for the proper development of the fetus. It is also significant for the well-being of the mother.

Fruits play a significant role in the diet of a prospective mum. They not only satisfy her sugar cravings in the healthiest way possible but also provide the vitamins and nutrients necessary for both the mum and her baby. The antioxidants in fruits boost the immune system of both mother and child, thus reducing the possibility of infection and illness. Fruits rich in fiber help in easing constipation, a recurrent issue with most mothers. Also, it is important to note that what mothers eat during their pregnancy plays a major role in shaping the eating habits of the baby as they grow up. Hence, eating healthily during one’s pregnancy is of utmost importance.

Here I am with a list of some of the healthiest fruits to consume during one’s pregnancy.

Apple

We all know the proverb that says, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Well, it is true. Apples are indeed very rich in nutrients. Naturally, they are a great addition to an expecting mum’s diet. They strengthen the baby and enhance the immune system. Eating apples while pregnant greatly diminishes the possibility of asthma, eczema, and wheezing in your baby. Apples have a high content of fiber and also is a great source of Vitamin A, potassium, and pectin. It is noteworthy that pectin is really good for your gut. As an added benefit, even the peel of an apple is edible. Moreover, apples can be used as an ingredient in some very succulent recipes, thus catering to your taste buds.

Orange

It is undeniable that oranges are very delicious and a great way to hydrate. Moreover, the juicy fruit is rich in folate, Vitamin C, and of course, water. Vitamin C helps in iron absorption and the prevention of cell damage. Folates play a key role in preventing neural tube defects like spina bifida and anencephaly. Additionally, oranges help in reducing blood pressure. Having oranges are a win-win. They not only give you a taste of tropical goodness but also make sure that you and your little one are healthy.

Avocado

Speaking of folates, avocados contain a ton of them. Additionally, they are packed with monounsaturated fatty acids, Vitamin C, Vitamin B, Vitamin K, fiber, choline, iron, copper, magnesium, and potassium. As they are rich in potassium and magnesium, avocados help in alleviating leg cramps and nausea, both common symptoms in pregnant women. The choline content aids in preventing neural tube defects and memory impairment in the baby.

Banana

Bananas are highly recommended during pregnancy. It is a super fruit that contains essential nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, folate, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. As already discussed, folate protects the fetus from neural diseases. Vitamin B6 plays an important role in regulating the sodium content in your body. Bananas also help in combating nausea and leg cramps.

Lemon

Lemons are very soothing and savory. Lemons and their citrusy aroma help pregnant mothers battle their nausea. Being rich in Vitamin C, they stimulate the digestive system and give relief to constipation. Lemons can easily be added to a wide range of dishes or even your regular water to soothe your senses.

Berries

Berries come in all shapes, colors, and sizes. Hence, we have a wide range of options to choose from. Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, blackberries, and goji berries are all amazing sources of antioxidants and are packed with essential nutrients like carbohydrates, Vitamin C, fiber, and folate. They also boast of phytonutrients like flavonoids and anthocyanins. Berries can be eaten individually or can simply be whipped into your favorite smoothie.

Watermelon

Consisting of 92% water, watermelons are a great source of relief from dehydration during pregnancy. The potassium, zinc, and folate of watermelon help to alleviate cramps and also aides in the little one’s spinal development. Moreover, the crunchy and saccharine flavor makes the fruit very palatable.

Cherries

Cherries are pretty and palatable. Their high Vitamin C and melatonin content help in the development of the baby’s brain and your own sleep regulation. As a plus, cherries have a very low content of calories.

Custard Apple

Custard Apples are seasonal fruits that help in the cognitive development of your baby. Having a high content of Vitamin A and Vitamin C, custard apples are great for the development of the baby’s eyes, hair, skin, and body tissues.

Pomegranate

Pomegranates are incredibly tasty. Moreover, they are full of iron, folate, protein, fiber, calcium, and Vitamin K. Being very rich in iron, they help in reducing the risk of iron deficiency. Pomegranates are all incredibly good for the bones. Also, it is believed that the consumption of pomegranate juice by expecting mothers reduces the risk of injury to the placenta.

Kiwi

Kiwis are full of potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, folate, fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E. They soothe the respiratory system. They protect us from cough and cold. Also, their high phosphorus content help in reducing the risk of blood clotting. They absorb iron as well.

Guava

Guavas are mouth-watering. Being rich in a plethora of nutrients like iso-flavonoids, carotenoids, polyphenols, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E, they are an important addition to a would-be mother’s diet. Guavas are great for digestion. Also, they strengthen the baby’s nervous system.

Conclusion

It is best to have at least one or two servings of fruits a day while you are pregnant. They are mouth-wateringly delicious and have the added bonus of providing you with a plethora of essential nutrients.

Do vote for your favorite fruits in the list and comment to let me know what makes them your top choice.