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Can We Consume Super Foods Whilst Pregnant?
This is a question we ear often: can I consume superfoods whilst pregnant? The best person to answer this question is without a doubt your doctor. He is the one who knows your clinical case and the context of your pregnancy. You should consult with a specialist if you wish to continue to consume the superfoods that you were already having before or if you are thinking of consuming them as reinforcement.
Yet we can already anticipate the answer to that question is “it depends”. Today we will give you a few insights for you to understand which ones of the superfoods can be your allies and the ones you need to avoid during this very special phase of your life.
Almost every mother is looking for the same during the 9 months of her pregnancy: reinforce her immune system (to avoid taking any medications), consume fibre (often the gut becomes lazy) and lower glycaemia. This without forgetting that the main goal is always guaranty and support a healthy growth and development for the baby.
The answer is yes but with a few exceptions.
If you are pregnant these are the superfoods you need to prioritize:
Camu Camu and Baobab – Rich in vitamin C which help reinforce the immune system. They are also foods that increase the absorption of iron which is fundamental during pregnancy.
Mix Omega Iswari – This mix from Iswari was created for the people that need to reinforce the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant function of their body. During pregnancy, omega 3 supports the neurological and cognitive development of the baby and the mother and it reduces the risk of miscarriage. You can also find Omega 3 and 6 in our Buddha’s Awakening range, as well as in chia seeds.
Coconut sugar – if you feel like indulging in something sweet during your pregnancy without increasing your blood sugar levels, coconut sugar is the solution to your problem. Another good option is Xilotol.
Fibre – supports healthy bowel movements which are very often affected during pregnancy. They are a lot of superfoods that can support a better gut function such as hemp fibre, Iswari sprouted oats and Buddha’s awakening.
However, not all superfoods are appropriate to eat during pregnancy. Some have counterindications and some can even lead to miscarriage. For that matter if you are pregnant pay attention to this article and get the proper information before consuming any of these superfoods:
Turmeric – During pregnancy it is important to balance your consumption of Turmeric. Its use as a condiment (in a curry or a sauce for instance) is not counter indicated, the problems is when you use it as a supplement. In that case it can overstimulate the uterus, which can cause bleeding, precipitate labour and even lead to miscarriage.
Chlorella and Spirulina – There is no consensus on the use of those green superfoods during gestation. Both superfoods (especially chlorella) may be over detoxifying and the toxins may move to the placenta.
Moringa: there is also no consensus on the subject of Moringa’s consumption. On one hand it has beneficial properties for pregnancy (iron, proteins and calcium, on the other hand its excess consumption can have negative effects for the baby.
Maca, Matcha and Guarana – any of those superfoods can increase your blood pressure. Matcha and Guarana both contain Caffeine, which besides increasing blood pressure, can also increase the heart rate and make your feel more nervous.
It is a delicate subject and it is important to be well informed before taking any decision. But the best advice for a healthy pregnancy is to lead an active lifestyle together with a conscious alimentation with you and your baby in mind. Find a way to keep your calm and tranquillity: meditation and Yoga for your pregnancy can be a massive help!
