Pregnancy is a delicate period in a woman’s life, marked by a heightened awareness of what she consumes. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals is crucial for both the mother’s health and the development of the growing baby. Among the plethora of recommended fruits, cherries stand out as an enticing option due to their exceptional Vitamin C content. However, like any dietary choice during pregnancy, cherries come with their set of considerations and potential drawbacks.
So read on this article on PregnancyBoss to know are cherries good for pregnancy, and benefits, risks, and important factors to bear in mind.
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Are Cherries Good for Pregnancy?
Yes, it is safe to eat cherries during pregnancy unless you are allergic to them. Cherries are a rich source of nutrients, including Vitamin C, which can boost immunity in pregnant women. They also contain antioxidants and have been found to have several health benefits during pregnancy, such as reducing the risk of pre-eclampsia. However, it is important to pit the cherries before eating them, as swallowing the seeds could be dangerous. It is also recommended to eat cherries in moderation to avoid gas and bloating.
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What is the nutritional value of Cherries?
As discussed earlier, cherries are highly nutritious and packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Here’s a summary of the nutritional values of cherries per one cup (154 grams) of sweet, raw, pitted cherries:
- Calories: 74-97
- Protein: 1.4-2 grams
- Fat: 0.23-0.3 grams
- Carbohydrates: 19-25 grams
- Fiber: 3-3.2 grams
- Vitamin C: 9.7-25% of the daily value
- Potassium: Varies depending on the source, but cherries are generally a good source of potassium
- Other nutrients: Cherries also provide B vitamins, manganese, copper, magnesium, and vitamin K
In addition to their nutritional value, cherries are rich in powerful polyphenol antioxidants, including anthocyanins, flavonols, and catechins, which contribute to their health benefits. Cherries are also a good source of dietary fiber, which helps promote bowel regularity and supports a healthy digestive system.
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What are the benefits of eating Cherries during Pregnancy?
Here are some benefits of eating cherries during pregnancy:
- Improved blood flow to the placenta: Cherries help in improving the blood flow to the placenta, which provides nutrition and oxygen to the baby.
- Boosted immunity: During pregnancy, the mother’s immune system is often somewhat compromised. Cherries contain vitamin C and a variety of antioxidants that can fight infection and boost immunity levels.
- Reduced risk of pre-eclampsia: Cherries have been found to reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine that can occur during pregnancy.
- Protection against cellular damage: Cherries include antioxidants that protect the body from cellular damage and lessen inflammation.
- Reduced risk of gestational diabetes: Cherry consumption during pregnancy helps in reducing gestational diabetes, managing blood sugar levels.
- Relief from cough and colds: Cherries are good for cough and colds.
- Relief from migraine headaches: Cherries help relieve migraine headaches.
- Relief from constipation, fatigue, and sleep problems: Cherries help prevent constipation, fatigue, and sleep problems.
- Support fetal brain development: Cherries may help boost fetal brain development.
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What are the side effects of eating Cherries during Pregnancy?
Here are the side effects of eating cherries during pregnancy in bullet format:
- Some pregnant women may experience abdominal pains, excess gas, and bloating upon consuming cherries during pregnancy.
- Cherries may trigger an allergic reaction in some women during pregnancy, like oral allergy syndrome.
- Consuming too many cherries can be harmful, even if you are not allergic to cherries. It may result in anaphylactic shock or anaphylaxis in rare cases, which can prove to be fatal.
- Eating too many cherries may cause bloating, gas, and stomach ache.
- Cherries may be contaminated if they are not washed properly, so it is important to wash them under running water before consuming and avoid any bruised bits.
- Pre-cut fruit salads containing cherries should be avoided as they are easily contaminated.
- It is recommended to eat no more than two or three servings of cherries per day during pregnancy.
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What are the precautions to take while consuming Cherries?
Here are some precautions to keep in mind:
- Consult a healthcare professional: If you have any underlying health conditions or are on medication, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before consuming cherries in large quantities.
- Allergies: Some individuals may have allergic reactions to cherries. If you have a known allergy to cherries or other fruits, it is best to avoid consuming them.
- Moderation: While cherries are generally considered safe when consumed in recommended amounts, it is important to practice moderation. Eating excessive amounts of cherries may lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea.
- Washing: Prior to consumption, ensure thorough washing of the cherries to prevent potential infections and health concerns for both the mother and the fetus.
- Remove pits: It is advisable to exclusively consume cherries that have had their pits removed, as these pits harbor prussic acid/cyanide, a toxic substance. If, by chance, you encounter a cherry with its pit intact, promptly extract it before consuming the fruit to avoid any inadvertent ingestion.
- Storage: When purchasing cherries, avoid those that are soft, mushy, or appear shriveled, as these may indicate that they are past their peak ripeness. Properly store cherries to keep them fresh and prevent spoilage.
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What are some Cherry Recipes you can enjoy during Pregnancy?
Here are some cherry recipes that you can enjoy during pregnancy:
- Cherry and Lime Slushie Recipe
- Cherry Turnovers with Puff Pastry
- Chocolate Covered Cherry Shake
- Cherry Mojito Mocktail
- Lavender Cherry Overnight Oats
- Cherry Pie
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Conclusion
So are cherries good for pregnancy? Yes, cherries are a great addition to a well-balanced diet during pregnancy. They are packed with essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can provide numerous benefits for both mother and baby. Incorporating cherries into your diet can help prevent some health complications during pregnancy and promote a healthy pregnancy for both the mother and baby. However, it is important to note that cherries should be consumed in moderation, as excessive consumption can lead to digestive issues due to their high fiber content. As with any dietary changes during pregnancy, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that it is safe for you and your baby.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many cherries can you eat during pregnancy?
There is no specific number of cherries that pregnant women should eat. However, it is recommended to consume a variety of fruits and vegetables to ensure a balanced diet.
Are cherries good for pregnancy?
Yes, cherries are good to eat during pregnancy. They are a rich source of vitamin C and micronutrients, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial during pregnancy.
Can cherries help with morning sickness during pregnancy?
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that cherries can help with morning sickness during pregnancy.
Can cherries help prevent constipation during pregnancy?
Cherries are a good source of fiber, which can help prevent constipation during pregnancy.
Which fruits should be avoided during pregnancy?
Some fruits that should be avoided during pregnancy include papaya, pineapple, and grapefruit. These fruits contain enzymes that can cause contractions and lead to premature labor. Pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider to determine which fruits are safe to consume during pregnancy.
Can eating cherries during pregnancy affect the baby’s skin color?Â
There is no scientific evidence to suggest that eating cherries during pregnancy can affect the baby’s skin color.
