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You are here : home > Pregnancy Safety Tips > Pregnancy Diet Safety Tips > Is it safe to eat banana during pregnancy?

Is it Safe to Eat Bananas during Pregnancy?

Is it Safe to Eat Bananas during Pregnancy?

Are you pregnant and confused whether bananas are safe or not? Have you heard of the myth related to eating bananas during pregnancy? Read on to know what are the benefits of eating bananas and what is it that causes harm and how.
   

Bananas are a highly sought-after fruit in the world of nutrition and diet. However, there are certain myths surrounding this fruit like excessive consumption of Banana thicken the umbilical cord making it difficult to be cut. Scientific Research done by FDA has proved this myth to be wrong. There are plenty of advantages you and your baby can reap when you consume bananas on a regular basis. Here is what you need to know while including Banana in your diet plan during pregnancy.

In this article

Benefits of Eating Bananas During Pregnancy

Let us take a quick look at the health benefits of eating bananas during pregnancy.

Good Source of Potassium

Bananas are known to be a very good source of potassium which helps regularize the blood pressure and keep it at a neutral or normal level. Banana also has a calming effect on the nerves and a revitalizing effect on kidneys. According to research one banana has about 350 mg of Potassium which fulfils more that 13% of the recommended daily intake of potassium.

Storehouse of Vitamin B6

Bananas have an amazing store of Vitamin B6 and one banana alone can fulfil half of the daily recommended dose of Vitamin B6 during pregnancy. This vitamin is responsible for helping the body manufacture Red Blood Cells and some neurotransmitters like Serotonin. Interestingly Serotonin is also known as the “Feel Good Hormone” and it helps control the dreaded mood swings during pregnancy.

Good Reserve of Vitamin C

Bananas have very good reserves of Vitamin C which has a beneficial effect on the immune system. Vitamin C is a natural antioxidant which can also guard against heart disease and early onset of ageing. Consumption of Vitamin C will also increase the skin’s resistive ability against the dreaded stretch marks which occur after pregnancy. One standard sized banana will fulfil one quarter of the daily recommended dose of Vitamin C.

Improves Haemoglobin Levels

Iron is one of the most important nutrients that are required by pregnant women for having a healthy pregnancy. As it is one of the most used nutrients by the body during pregnancy, most of the pregnant women face the deficiency of this nutrient. The deficiency of iron can result in complications like anaemia during pregnancy which is caused due to low haemoglobin levels. Eating bananas during pregnancy can help to improve or maintain haemoglobin levels by increasing the red blood cell production in the blood.

Helps to Improve Digestion

Bananas is a storehouse of dietary fibre as well as other nutrients like potassium and other minerals. The nutrients like fibre and potassium are necessary for smooth functioning of the digestive system. It is also a source of pectin which helps in easing the process of digestion.

Good for Bones

Bananas are a rich source of Calcium which is essential for healthy development of bones in mothers as well as in the baby. Calcium is also useful to maintain muscle contraction in the body.

Provides Antioxidants

Bananas are a rich source of antioxidants which is useful in helping the body fight free radical damage and safeguards from cellular damage. It is also very useful in boosting the immune system of the foetus.

Helps to Cope with Loss of Appetite

Some women cope with the loss of appetite during pregnancy. Consuming bananas can help such women in dealing with this issue.

Provides Folic Acid

Folic acid is vital for the development of the brain and spinal cord. It is very beneficial for preventing neural tube defects and other birth defects in babies. Folic acid is also very useful in preventing premature births.

Provides Energy

Bananas are considered as energy boosters. They are a rich source of carbohydrates. They can provide an instant dose of energy as the fructose, sucrose and glucose content in it are easily metabolised.

Helps to Prevent Oedema

Water retention or oedema is common in the second and third trimester of pregnancy. This issue can lead to swelling in the different parts of the body like ankles, feet and joints. If such a problem is observed doctors usually advise to reduce salt intake and include bananas in diet. Such dietary changes can help to reduce swelling.

Aids in Development of Baby’s Nervous System

As bananas are rich in Vitamins like Vitamin B6 it aids in development of the central nervous system. Therefore, pregnant women should start consuming this fruit in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Helps to Regulate Blood Pressure

Bananas are also a good source of potassium which is useful for regulating the blood pressure in the body. The fluctuations in the blood pressure levels in the body can be controlled by including bananas in the diet.

Helps in Dealing with Acidity and Heartburn

Acidity and heartburn are common during pregnancy. Dealing with acidity and heartburn can be easy if bananas are included in the diet during pregnancy. Bananas have the capability of protecting stomach and esophageal walls from gastric acid. The problems like acidity and heartburn increase as the digestion slows due to bodily and hormonal changes during pregnancy. Consuming bananas can aid in digestion thereby reducing such problems.

Benefits of Eating Bananas During Pregnancy

Bananas cannot be simply eaten raw. Raw bananas can be included in the pregnancy diet in cooked form. It can be included in the diet in moderation in the form of baked chips and banana bakes. It can also be added to curries.

How to Include Bananas in the Diet During Pregnancy?

Bananas are one of the wonder fruits that can be included in the diet in many different ways. This fruit not only fulfils the nutritional requirements during pregnancy but also helps to satiate the pregnancy cravings. Bananas can be eaten as a whole fruit or it can be included in a diet through various recipes. Here are some ways in which bananas can be included in the diet during pregnancy.

Banana Milk Shake

For making a delicious Banana Milk Shake you can blend a ripe banana with milk. You can also add a health drink powder that is prescribed by your doctor. Adding a health drink powder can add a unique flavour to your banana milk shake.

Banana Oatmeal

Banana oatmeal is a simple recipe that pregnant women can include in their diet. You can add sliced bananas, yogurt and nuts to the oatmeal and enjoy it as a healthy breakfast or an evening snack. This recipe can give a good dose of energy as it is rich in fibre, carbohydrates and minerals. 

Banana Chips

Crispy banana chips can be a good option for pregnant women too much-on for dealing with sudden hunger pangs. Pregnant women can prefer baked chips instead of fried ones so that it becomes a healthy eating option.

Banana Fries

Marinated slices of raw bananas with turmeric powder, chili powder and lemon juice can be shallow fried in oil. These banana fries are crispy and delicious. These fries can be included in the diet in moderation to avoid oily stuff.

Banana Curries

You can add pieces of raw bananas to any of your favourite curries. Raw bananas add a distinctive taste to curries.

Raw Banana Subji

You can add raw bananas to your diet in the form of Subji. It is very simple to prepare banana Subji. Remove the skin of the banana and cut it into small pieces. Take a little oil in a pan and season the banana pieces with mustard and cumin seeds. Add chopped green chillies and curry leaves to the seasoning. Then add some chopped onions. Fry the onions till they become pink and then add chopped bananas. Add a little turmeric powder and salt to taste. You can add some grounded black pepper for enhancing the taste of the Subji.    

How Many Bananas Can a Pregnant Woman Eat?

A pregnant woman can in a day eat 1 to 2 bananas which are medium sized and fresh. Bananas should be eaten in moderation during pregnancy. To know about the exact quantity of bananas that can be included in the diet during pregnancy, it is necessary to consult a doctor.   

Is it Safe to Eat Red Bananas During Pregnancy?

The nutritional content of bananas is the same as the nutritional content of yellow bananas. Therefore, it is safe to eat red bananas during pregnancy. However, it is necessary to check with the doctor before including it in the diet during pregnancy. In India, red bananas from Kamalapur village and its neighbouring areas in Gulbarga district of Karnataka are very popular.

Is it Healthy and Safe to Eat Bananas during Pregnancy?

Pregnancy commonly brings about constipation as a side effect. To conquer constipation the consumption of dietary fibre must be increased. Each banana contains about 2.3 gm of dietary fibre which make them a good antidote to constipation.

Diarrhoea and/or morning sickness is a frequent and ugly side effect of pregnancy. Bananas can benefit women who have been dealing with either or both of these problems. This is because bananas have good quantities of both gum fibre and pectin in them. These substances absorb the excessive water in the body and provide some relief from diarrhoea.

Bananas contain high amounts of potassium too and this helps in relieving the painful feeling that is associated with cramps. However, excessive consumption of this fruit does have some side effects on the body and so it is wise to eat them in moderation only.   

Harmful Effects of Consuming Bananas during Pregnancy

Banana is undoubtedly packed with a lot of nutrients and vitamins which make it an excellent food choice especially during pregnancy. However, there is also a cause of concern as bananas are rich in chitinase which is a very common allergen. The chitinase allergen is connected to the latex fruit disorder. If you are allergic to or respond negatively to fruits containing latex then bananas might not be good for you.

Apart from bananas, kiwis, chestnuts and avocados contain high amounts of chitinase. In case you have already demonstrated intolerance to any of the above-named fruits it is recommended that you check with a doctor before incorporating bananas as a major part of your diet. 

What Kind of Precautions Should Be Taken While Eating Bananas?

It is necessary to take the right kind of precautions while eating bananas during pregnancy. A pregnant woman should always choose the bananas that are fresh and clean. Eating bananas that are overripe or which have turned black should be avoided. It is always better for a pregnant woman to include bananas in diet after consulting a doctor. For women who are allergic or coping with gestational diabetes must surely consult a doctor.    

Can I Eat Bananas during Pregnancy?

Simply because Bananas are good for you does not mean that you keep overdosing on them during pregnancy. You should consult your nutritionist and doctor about a suitable diet plan including bananas if you have been tested negative for latex allergy. Only follow the recommended dosage as prescribed by the doctor. Under normal circumstances the dose is 1 to 2 bananas per day.  

Who Should Avoid Eating Bananas during Pregnancy?

A healthy woman having a healthy pregnancy can safely eat bananas. However, women coping with gestational diabetes should avoid eating bananas as it can increase sugar levels in the body. Some women having allergic reactions to latex component called chitinase in bananas should avoid eating this fruit. The other fruits containing chitinase include fruits like kiwis and avocados.  

If you consume bananas in a moderate way there are high chances that both you and your baby will gain a lot from this humble fruit which is so loaded with vitamins and nutrients.     

What are the benefits of eating bananas during pregnancy? Is it safe to eat bananas during pregnancy? What are the harmful effects of consuming bananas excessively during pregnancy? Discuss here.



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