Strawberries are one of the most nutritious fruits, loaded with vitamins and minerals, being beneficial in maintaining one’s overall health. As suggested by old wives’ tales, a craving for strawberries during pregnancy might also indicate a girl in waiting.
Is it safe to eat strawberries during pregnancy?
Eating strawberries while pregnant is healthy and safe in the first, second, and third trimesters for its high nutrient content.
Can you drink strawberry tea?
Tea prepared from strawberry and its leaves is said to come with many health benefits, but make sure to consult a doctor before having it.
Health benefits of strawberries during pregnancy
1. High in vitamins
Getting adequate prenatal vitamins is necessary for the mother and baby, and strawberries have them in abundance. Besides being a good source of vitamins C and B9, this fruit also contains limited amounts of vitamins B6, E, and K.
Vitamin C is essential for collagen formation and growth of skin and bones, while B9 or folate, highly necessary in the first trimester, lessens neural tube defects and other birth deformities. B6 fosters brain and nervous system development, relieving nausea and vomiting. On the other hand, Vitamin E protects the body tissues from free radical damage and maintains your prolactin levels.
2. Good source of minerals
Strawberries contain minerals like manganese, potassium, copper, iron, phosphorous, and magnesium. Manganese assists in bone and cartilage formation, protecting the cells from damage. Potassium works towards keeping your pains and cramps at bay. Copper fosters the development of the fetus’ blood vessels, heart, nervous system, and skeletal system, while its iron content is beneficial for hemoglobin production and boosting the immune system. Phosphorous helps the body in energy generation and usage alongside maintaining proper bone health, whereas magnesium (vital in the second trimester) prevents premature contraction of the uterus.
2. Rich in fiber
Pregnant women need 25-30 grams of dietary fiber daily to have proper bowel movements and lessen the possibility of constipation. A cup of strawberries provides 3 grams of fiber, making it a worthy addition to your daily diet alongside other fiber-rich foods.
Ideas for adding strawberries to your diet
- Having some fresh juice or milkshake
- Making delicious jam at home
- Mixing some raw or cooked strawberry pieces in your yogurt
- Making some smoothies along with fruits like apples and bananas
- Some non-alcoholic daiquiri is made with fresh or frozen strawberries, ice, and lime juice.
Things to remember while eating strawberries in pregnancy
- Strawberry-flavored ice creams and cakes should be eaten in limited amounts as they are high in sugar and calorie. If making at home, do not taste the cake batter, and make sure to use pasteurized eggs for homemade ice creams to avoid any viral or bacterial infection (e.g., salmonella).
- Homemade strawberry sodas are safer than the commercially available ones since the latter have caffeine and artificial sweeteners that may harm the fetus.
Can eating strawberries during pregnancy be bad?
Though they are good during pregnancy, eating too many strawberries in one go may have some adverse effects. If you develop rashes, itchiness, diarrhea, heartburn, stomachache, or any other symptoms after eating it, stop consumption immediately and contact your health care provider.
References:
- https://www.momjunction.com/articles/is-it-safe-to-eat-strawberry-during-pregnancy_00346354/
- https://eatrightmama.com/5-reasons-why-you-should-eat-strawberries-while-pregnant/
- https://www.pregnancyfoodchecker.com/strawberries-during-pregnancy-safe-healthy-fruit/
- https://www.news24.com/parent/pregnant/faqs/qa-strawberry-misconception-20150826
- https://www.theprenatalnutritionist.com/strawberriesduringpregnancy/
Dr. Mashiach has completed his MD at the Sackler School of Medicine, TAU; specialization in gynecology at the Lis Maternity and Women’s Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center; fellowship in Endoscopy at the Polyclinique de I’Hotel-Dieu, Universite d’Auvergne, Clermont, France.
He is a Senior Physician, Director of the Department of Gynecology, which provides routine and preventative care services to its patients and a full range of gynecological surgical procedures for adequately managing its patients with benign gynecologic disorders.
He offers advanced care in all gynecological subspecialties such as Urogynecology, Colposcopy, Fetal Loss Clinic, and Post Menopausal Clinic.
