Pregnancy is an amazing adventure and a time when a woman goes through a lot of changes, both physically and emotionally. With these changes comes a renewed emphasis on eating a nutritious and healthful diet. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the litany of dos and don’ts.
Every culture has its own set of preconception taboos and restrictions, particularly when it comes to diet and nutrition. Some of the advice may be reasonable, but not all of it is. These far-fetched notions contribute to anxiety and tension. The experts explain and clarify many of the misunderstandings and misinformation that pregnant women may find when seeking advice on a healthy diet…
#Myth 1: Eating papaya could result in a miscarriage
Well-ripened papaya is safe and high in vitamins A, B, and potassium, all of which are favourable to the growth of the fetus. However, unripe or semi-ripe papaya should be avoided since it contains papain, which might cause oxytocin and prostaglandin output to increase. These hormones can cause uterine contractions, which can lead to early labour.
#Myth 2: A pregnant woman needs to eat for two
This prevalent belief that one must eat for two while pregnant is completely false. This is harmful and can lead to unwarranted weight gain.
In truth, if you’re pregnant with one child and eating the daily suggested calorie intake for your height and weight, you only need an extra 300-350 calories. It’s also vital to concentrate on the quality of the food you eat rather than the number of calories you ingest.
#Myth 3: Having Saffron While Pregnant Brightens Your Baby’s Skin Color
While saffron has numerous benefits, including being high in antioxidants, helping with mood swings, and relieving cramping, it has not been found to have any effect on skin colour. To be clear, skin colour is determined only by genetics, and food has no bearing on it.
#Myth 4: Increasing Ghee Consumption in the Ninth Month Makes Delivery Easier
Ghee’s popularity among Indians knows no bounds. Drinking ghee throughout the ninth month of pregnancy is thought to lubricate and relax the abdominal and pelvic muscles, allowing the baby to slip out’ more readily during normal birth. There is, however, no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Even though ghee offers numerous health benefits, it should be used in moderation because it contains saturated fatty acids, which can contribute to weight gain and obesity.
#Myth 5: Don’t Eat Spicy Foods While Pregnant
True, but not for the reasons you may think. Contrary to popular belief, eating spicy foods while pregnant will not cause your kid to become blind.
However, it may give you indigestion and heartburn. You should avoid meals that make you feel nauseous when pregnant to feel your best and stay active and healthy while your baby grows.
Spicy Foods Can Induce Labor Spicy foods do not influence your chances of naturally inducing labour unless your body is ready to give birth.
#Myth 6: Fish should be avoided because it contains mercury
Not all fish are dangerous to eat. There are several mercury-free options available, such as salmon, sardines, sole, and so on. 2 to 3 servings of fish each week is a good goal. Seafood is high in protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, both of which are essential for your baby’s development and growth.