For anyone who is currently pregnant and you actually are tempted by the thought: cabbage during pregnancy. You will see many beneficial info on this specific topic, as well as tips, suggestions, thoughts, and answers to questions regarding pregnancy, proper nutrition and eating plans.
For an expecting mother, taking care of her health becomes twice as important, as there are twice as many lives to take care of. To ensure a safe delivery and healthy baby, a mindful diet is essential. Making green vegetables a part of her diet has many benefits. One such vegetable is cabbage, also popularly known as Patta Gobi in India. It provides a number of medical benefits for the health of the expectant mother. But there are some warnings about the risks of consuming cabbage. In this article we discuss its benefits during pregnancy and when to avoid it.
Is it safe to eat cabbage in pregnancy?
Yes, it is absolutely safe and, in fact, health specialists recommend the inclusion of cabbage in the pregnancy diet. However, you should avoid eating raw cabbage as it is more prone to bacterial contamination and in turn more likely to cause food poisoning. Foodborne illnesses such as listeria are very risky, as the infection can make you and your fetus sick, and has often led to miscarriages, premature births, or even fetal death.
If you consume Patta gobi while pregnant, be sure to wash, boil, cook or roast it properly before eating it. You may want to avoid coleslaw that includes raw kale. It can be consumed in various preparations such as cabbage pancakes and soup.
Nutrients available in cabbage
Cabbage is a low-calorie, high-fiber vegetable. This leafy ball is loaded with nutrients that are essential for your body, such as:
- Nutrients – Calories, Carbohydrates, Proteins, Fiber, Fat
- Vitamins: vitamin A, C, K, B6, folic acid, pyridoxine, niacin, riboflavin, thiamine
- Electrolytes – Potassium, Sodium
- Minerals – Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Zinc, Phosphorus
Health benefits of eating cabbage during pregnancy
Nutrient-dense cabbage provides many health benefits due to its nutritional content, some of which are:
1. Better digestion
Constipation is a common symptom in pregnant women, and cabbage helps regulate bowel movements due to its high amount of dietary fiber. If you have gas-related problems, you should avoid consuming large amounts.
2. Improved DNA health.
The folic acid in cabbage protects the fetus from neural tube birth defects and facilitates proper DNA replication.
3. Bone health
Cabbage is also a rich source of calcium and vitamin K that helps strengthen bones and helps build strong bones for the baby.
4. Regulation of blood pressure.
The electrolytes there play a vital role in regulating blood pressure and heart rate, and cabbage is loaded with them.
5. Boost immunity
As it is a rich source of antioxidants and vitamin C, cabbage helps improve your immune system.
6. Low weight gain
Since cabbage is low in energy density and high in nutrients, it often plays a key role in a weight loss diet. It can make you feel full by allowing you to consume fewer calories.
7. Prevention of some forms of cancer
Anthocyanin, which is present in purple cabbage, is said to protect against certain types of cancer.
8. Treatment of gestational diabetes
The fiber-rich vegetable helps maintain blood sugar levels and therefore reduces the risk of developing gestational diabetes, which is quite common during pregnancy.
9. Lower risk of anemia
Iron deficiency is a major cause of anemia. A pregnant woman can benefit from the iron content in cabbage to ward off the threat of anemia.
10. Treatment of swollen legs.
Edema of pregnancy is a common condition identified by swelling in certain parts of the body from extra blood and fluids. Wrapping cabbage leaves around inflamed areas can help relieve swelling.
What variety of cabbage is beneficial for pregnancy?
Purple or red cabbage, although less popular than green, is richer in nutritional value. Although green cabbage is richer in vitamin K, purple cabbage contains comparatively more amounts of vitamin C, vitamin A, and iron than the green variety. Anthocyanin is present in purple cabbage while it is absent in the other. With the availability of many varieties, it is possible to include different types in your diet. When choosing to buy cabbage in general, look for the ones that feel heavy for their size.
Harmful effects of eating raw cabbage when pregnant
Since it is sprayed with pesticides and fungicides, it is prone to bacterial infections and foodborne illness. It is still better to consume organic cabbage. Washing it thoroughly is a must!
Also, avoid eating too much cabbage if you are vulnerable to gas problems because consuming a large amount of it can lead to increased intestinal gas and pain.
When to avoid eating cabbage?
Although it is healthy to consume green or red cabbage during pregnancy, there are some precautions that must be taken. For example,
- Buy fresh cabbage and check for damage.
- You should try not to buy pre-cut cabbage as the vitamin C content begins to drop once it is cut.
- If you are allergic to it, it is advisable to avoid the consumption of cabbage.
- For people with thyroid problems, cabbage can be avoided as it reduces iodine absorption.
Things to remember
Knowing what to do is also crucial for a healthy diet. Therefore, let’s make a summary.
- Wash, boil, sauté or cook the cabbage. Avoid eating it raw during pregnancy.
- Avoid overeating.
- Shop wisely and make new preparations to keep it interesting.
Considering all the health benefits of cabbage during pregnancy, consume any variety in a safe and healthy way. Even better if you consult your doctor for a proper diet, tailored for your body and the best health for you and your baby.
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