Pumpkin is an autumn fruit that is very tasty and healthy and has a low-fat content of about 28 fat per 100 grams. This autumn fruit contains vitamins and minerals that are suitable for all ages.
Pumpkin at a Glance
- It is not forbidden to use pumpkins during pregnancy.
- Pumpkin contains folic acid, potassium, calcium, and beta-carotene.
- Pumpkin improves digestion, relieves cramps, and improves eyesight.
- Note that the pumpkin must be washed before cooking.
- Avoid bitter gourd as much as possible.
Is it safe to Eat Pumpkin During Pregnancy?
Pumpkins can be consumed in different ways. Just make sure that it is really ripe.
Depending on the type of pumpkin and how it is cooked, you can eat pumpkin with the skin during pregnancy. Just make sure to wash the pumpkin thoroughly. If you want to cook the pumpkin briefly, it is better to peel it first. Because some squashes, such as pumpkins or nutmegs, their skins are very tough, in addition to the fact that the skins are basically edible. And it also takes a long time to soften when cooked. If raw pumpkin is consumed, it should be noted that it is well-ripe.
The reason for the bitterness of the pumpkin is the “cucurbitacin” contained in it, which leads to food poisoning with stomach pain, nausea, or even vomiting.
Vitamins and Minerals in Pumpkin
- Beta-carotene: It is an excellent source of nutrients for eyes, bones, and mucous membranes.
- Iron: Iron is needed for the formation of hemoglobin, which in turn is responsible for transporting oxygen in the human body.
- Folic acid: helping the healthy development of the fetus during pregnancy.
- Calcium: stabilizes teeth and bones.
- Potassium
What are the Benefits of Eating Pumpkin During Pregnancy?
Rich in nutrients
It contains protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, iron, calcium, niacin, and phosphorus.
Prevention and relief of abdominal cramps
Cramps that occur in the abdomen during pregnancy, pumpkin can help prevent and even take care of it. It can be steamed, fried, or baked.
Prevention of diarrhea
Pumpkins can reduce diarrhea and eczema, which is a common diseases during pregnancy. Pumpkin helps remove worms from the intestines and cleanse the spleen, reducing the likelihood of stomach infections during pregnancy.
Blood sugar level control
Pumpkin lowers blood sugar levels.
Rich in protein
Pumpkin contains a lot of protein. Rich in fiber that prevents constipation during pregnancy.
Benefits of Eating Pumpkin Seeds During Pregnancy
Useful for the heart
Eating a quarter cup of pumpkin seeds provides almost half of the daily magnesium requirement. It helps the heart to pump properly and helps the baby’s bones and teeth to form. It also helps prevent constipation, which is a common problem faced by pregnant women.
Prevention of diabetes
It helps improve insulin regulation and reduces oxidative stress and prevents any complications of diabetes.
Rich in zinc
The zinc in pumpkin seeds helps boost the immune system, improves sleep, and helps control mood swings that are common during pregnancy.
It relieves and delays the effects of menopause
Enhancing sleep
Pumpkin seeds contain tryptophan, an amino acid that your body converts into the sleep hormone melatonin.
Can Pumpkin be Harmful to Pregnant Women?
Eating a lot of pumpkins, due to their high fiber content, can cause stomach aches. Pumpkins may cause an allergic reaction that causes shortness of breath, wheezing, vomiting, or stomach cramps.
Pumpkin products such as pumpkin chips or pumpkin pie may not be very healthy, especially during pregnancy. So avoid eating unhealthy pumpkin-based foods like pumpkin pie, pumpkin candy, or pumpkin cake.
Conclusion
Diet is an important thing that must be carefully checked, especially during pregnancy and for mothers because it may be harmful to the mother and the child. Pumpkins can help meet some nutritional needs. It should be noted that pumpkin should be consumed in moderate amounts because eating too much pumpkin can lead to stomach problems. It is better to have a moderate diet and consult your doctor or nutritionist about your diet plan.
