Sunday, 20 August 2017

15 Nutritious Fruits To Eat During Pregnancy

Diet is of foremost importance in your pregnancy. A very important part of your diet should be fruits and vegetables; these should form a massive chunk of your everyday meal. Eating healthy food rich in vitamins, fiber and minerals takes care of your unborn baby’s complete nutrition as well as your health.

Importance Of Fruits In Your Diet:

Fruits are an important food group that you need to incorporate into your routine diet. Fruits provide you and your baby with important nutrients like beta carotene that helps in developing the tissue and cell development, while laying foundation for a stronger immune system. The vitamin C present in fruits is vital for progress of teeth and bones, while folic acid helps prevent the fetal growth defects.
The rich fiber found in fruits; help you to steer clear of issues such as constipation and formation of hemorrhoids. The following are the best fruits during pregnancy.

Top 15 Fruits To Eat During Pregnancy: 

Here are the different kinds of fruits you can eat during your pregnancy. These are all very healthy for your baby’s development and will provide you with ample nutrition and energy.Your diet should include following fruits during pregnancy.

1. Apricots:

Apricots are tasty and are consumed as drupe fruits, where both the kernel and the flesh are edible.
  • Apricots contain Vitamin A, C, E, Beta Carotene, Phosphorus, Silicon, Calcium, Iron and Potassium.
  • They come loaded with all the super nutrients that assist in the healthy development of your baby.
  • They are a rich source of iron, which is important to prevent anemia.
  • You can consume up to 2 to 4 apricots every day.

2. Cherries:

Cherries are a great source of Vitamin C.
  • While pregnant, you will require sufficient amount of Vitamin C to fight infections such as common cold and rashes.
  • Eating cherries also helps in efficient blood supply to the placenta and the baby.
  • Cherries also come packed with Melatonin, a powerful antioxidant hormone that helps in stimulating the cell growth while your belly stretches during pregnancy.
  • Experts say that melatonin helps you to get a good night sleep with its powerful anti-stress inducing factor.

3. Grapes:

Grapes can be your healthy snacking option during the pregnancy period.
  • Grapes are full of essential nutrients such as glucose, fructose, pholbaphene, galic acid, silicic acid, oxalic acid, pectin, magnesium, calcium, iron, folic acid and vitamins B1, B2, B6, B12, A, C, P, PP, K.
  • This fruit also rich in other important enzymes.

4. Guava:

The good old guava is a tropical fruit that you will mostly love biting into while you are pregnant. Most women also report having guava cravings.
  • Guava is mostly a mommy’s food, helping to regulate your immune system and blood pressure during pregnancy.
  • Guava comes rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Iso-flavonoids, Carotenoids and Polyphenols.
  • The fruit helps in easy digestion while providing strength to your growing baby’s central nervous system.

5. Kiwi:

Kiwis are ripe and tasty.
  • They come with important nutrients like Vitamin C, E, A, Potassium, Phosporus, Magnesium, Folic Acid and dietary fiber.
  • Kiwis are known to have healing effects on human respiratory system.
  • You are less likely to be affected by cough, cold and wheezing if you eat kiwis every day.
  • The fruit helps in lesser blood clotting because of its richness in phosphorus content.
  • Kiwi also felicitates easy absorption of iron.

6. Apple:

Having apple helps in many ways.
  • It enhances the immunity and strength of your baby.
  • There is reduced risk of wheezing, asthma and eczema in your child in his later stages of life if you take apple during your pregnancy.
  • Apples are rich in Vitamins A, E, D and Zinc.

7. Mango:

If you are one of those women who crave for mangoes in their pregnancy, we suggest you go right ahead.
  • Mango contains heavy amounts of Vitamin C required to regulate your digestion, reduce constipation and relieve you from minor infections.
  • The fruit is available only in summer, so if you are due around that time, make sure include this delicious seasonal fruit.

8. Pear:

There is a lot of confusion about whether pears are good to be consumed during pregnancy or not, so we suggest you definitely check with your doctor before having.
  • Pears contain high amounts of folate or folic acid, ideal for would be moms.
  • Folic acid is vital to prevent neural tube defects in growing babies during the pre-natal stage.

9. Strawberries:

Just like cherries, strawberries are a great snacking delight.
  • While you can indulge in a bowl of strawberries any time of the day, the delicious fruit keeps you nourished with great amounts of vitamins and fiber.
  • Just like mangoes, strawberries are high on folate content.
  • There are other nutrients such as manganese and potassium that aid in the growth of stronger bones for your baby.

10. Watermelon:

Watermelon is a rich source of Vitamin A, C, B6, Magnesium and Potassium.
  • Loaded with minerals, it is also rich in fiber ideal for pregnant conditions.
  • Watermelon also helps ward off that queasy feeling during morning sickness.
  • In your last trimester, watermelon helps reduce heart burn, swelling in your hands and feet, reduces muscle cramps and keeps you hydrated.
  • It is an essential addition to your pregnancy diet.

11. Blueberries:

Consumption of blueberries should be avoided in excessive quantities.
  • One cup of blueberries contains 114 milligrams of potassium, very vital for regulating your blood pressure.
  • Blueberries also have Vitamin C, folate, calcium and fiber.
  • The best way to consume blueberries is to add them with breakfast such as corn flakes and other cereals.

12. Chikoo (sapodilla):

Chikoo is very good during pregnancy.
  • Chikoo is full of electrolytes, Vitamin A, carbohydrates and energy, perfect for lactating mothers as well.
  • Chikoo has multiple health benefits for expectant moms.
  • Apart from helping you cope with dizziness and nausea, chikoo also prevents conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.
  • The fruit also helps improve the production of collagen, while fighting stomach related disorders like diarrhea and dysentery.

13. Banana:

Bananas are one of the healthiest foods to have during pregnancy.
  • Bananas have folate, vitamin C, B6, potassium, magnesium, etc.
  • The folate does its usual super job of protecting the pre natal fetus from neural tube defects.
  • Vitamin B6 helps regulate your sodium levels, controlling nausea and vomiting.
  • The rich magnesium content in a banana helps restore a healthy fluid balance.
  • Potassium is vital to protect yourself from the possible attack of stroke or any other pregnancy related complications.
  • Doctors usually recommend consuming one banana every day during your first trimester.

14. Custard Apple:

Perhaps this is one of the best fruit during pregnancy that can be consumed, custard apple comes seasonally. So if you are pregnant right in time when the fruit arrives, feel free to indulge.
  • Custard apple comes loaded with Vitamin A and C, which are absolutely good for the eyes, skin, hair, and body tissues of your growing baby.
  • The tasty seasonal fruit is also said to enhance cognitive functioning of your baby in the pre natal period of development.
  • For expectant mommies, high fiber in custard apple helps prevent constipation and also eases the pain while in labor.
  • The rich antioxidants present in this delightful fruit help you keep active and detoxified while preparing for childbirth.

15. Pomegranates:

The red pearly pomegranates are nature’s gift to a pregnant woman.
  • Pomegranates contain good amounts of energy, calcium, folate, iron, protein and Vitamin C.
  • Thus it is absolutely beneficial to consume pomegranates during the pregnancy period, be it as a whole fruit or as juice.
These are some of the fruits that should be a part of your diet while you are pregnant. Remember, a balanced diet of fruits and vegetables along with other supplements is a must. Talk to your health care practitioner to know more about your daily fruit intake. Enjoy this wonderful period and pamper yourself with some super healthy fruits.
What is your favourite fruit during pregnancy? We would love to know that:
Happy Pregnancy!

50 Foods That Are Super Healthy

Eating healthy does NOT have to be boring.
There is a massive amount of foods out there that are both healthy and tasty.
Here are 50 incredibly healthy foods. Most of them are surprisingly delicious.

1-6: Fruits and Berries

Fruits and berries are among the world's most popular health foods.
This is not surprising, given that they taste incredible. Fruits are also very easy to incorporate into the diet, because they require little to no preparation.

1. Apples

The apple is high in fiber, vitamin C and numerous antioxidants. Apples are very fulfilling, and perfect as snacks if you find yourself hungry between meals.

2. Avocados

Avocados are different than most fruits, because they are loaded with healthy fats instead of carbs. They are creamy, tasty and high in fiber, potassium and vitamin C.

3. Bananas

Bananas are among the world's best sources of potassium. They are also high in vitamin B6 and fiber. Bananas are ridiculously convenient and portable.

4. Blueberries

Blueberries are not only delicious, but also among the most powerful sources of antioxidants in the world.

5. Oranges

Oranges are well known for their vitamin C content. They are also high in fiber, antioxidants and taste incredible.

6. Strawberries

Strawberries are highly nutritious, and are low in both carbs and calories.
They are loaded with vitamin C, fiber and manganese, and are arguably among the most delicious foods in existence.

Other Healthy Fruits

There are many other healthy fruits and berries that aren't listed here.
Some examples: Cherries, grapes, grapefruit, kiwi, lemons, mango, melons, olives, peaches, pears, pineapples, plums and raspberries.

7. Eggs

Eggs are among the most nutritious foods on the planet.
They were previously demonized for being high in cholesterol, but new studies have shown that they are perfectly safe and healthy (1, 2).

8-10: Meats

It is a myth that all meat is harmful. Unprocessed, gently cooked meat is one of the healthiest and most nutritious foods you can eat.

8. Lean Beef

Lean beef is among the best sources of protein in existence, and loaded with highly bioavailable iron. Choosing the fatty cuts is fine if you're on a low carb diet.

9. Chicken Breasts

Chicken breast is low in fat and calories, but extremely high in protein. It is a great source of many nutrients. Again, feel free to eat fattier cuts of chicken if you're not eating that many carbs.

10. Lamb

Lambs are usually grass-fed, and their meat tends to be high in Omega-3 fatty acids.

11-16: Nuts, Seeds and Peanuts

Despite being high in fat and calories, studies suggest that nuts and seeds can help you lose weight (3, 4).
These foods are crunchy, fulfilling and loaded with important nutrients that many people don't get enough of, including magnesium and vitamin E.
They also require zero preparation, which is important because it makes it easier to incorporate them into the diet.

11. Almonds

The almond is a popular type of nut. It is loaded with vitamin E, antioxidants, magnesium and fiber. Studies show that almonds can help you lose weight, and provide impressive benefits for metabolic health (5).

12. Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are among the most nutrient dense foods on the planet. A single ounce (28 grams) contains 11 grams of fiber, and a large part of the recommended intake for magnesium, manganese, calcium and various other nutrients.

13. Coconuts

Coconuts are loaded with fiber and powerful fatty acids called medium-chain triglycerides.

14. Macadamia Nuts

Macadamia nuts are very tasty. They are much higher in monounsaturated fats, and lower in Omega-6 fatty acids, than most other nuts.

15. Walnuts

Walnuts are highly nutritious and loaded with fiber and all sorts of vitamins and minerals.

16. Peanuts

Peanuts (technically legumes, not nuts) are incredibly tasty and high in nutrients and antioxidants. Several studies show that peanuts can help you lose weight (6, 7).
However, take it easy on the peanut butter. It is very high in calories and incredibly easy to eat excessive amounts of it.

17-26: Vegetables

Calorie for calorie, vegetables are among the world's most concentrated sources of nutrients.
There is a wide variety available, and it is best to eat many different types of vegetables every day.

17. Asparagus

Asparagus is a popular vegetable. It is low in both carbs and calories, but loaded with vitamin K.

18. Bell Peppers

Bell peppers come in several colors, including red, yellow and green. They are crunchy and taste very sweet, and are a great source of antioxidants and vitamin C.

19. Broccoli

Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that tastes great both raw and cooked. It is an excellent source of fiber, vitamin K and vitamin C, and contains a decent amount of protein compared to other vegetables.

20. Carrots

The carrot is a popular root vegetable. It is extremely tasty and crunchy, and loaded with nutrients like fiber and vitamin K. Carrots are also very high in carotene antioxidants, which have numerous benefits.

21. Cauliflower

Cauliflower is a very versatile cruciferous vegetable. It can be used to make all sorts of healthy recipes, and also tastes pretty good on its own.

22. Cucumber

The cucumber is one of the world's most popular vegetables. It is very low in both carbs and calories, and consists mostly of water. However, it does contain a number of nutrients in small amounts, including vitamin K.

23. Garlic

Garlic is incredibly healthy. It contains allicin, a bioactive compound with powerful biological effects, including improved immune function (8).

24. Kale

Kale has been very popular in recent years, for good reason. It is incredibly high in vitamin K, vitamin C, fiber and a number of other nutrients. It is perfect to add a satisfying crunch to salads and recipes.

25. Onions

Onions have a very strong flavor, and are very popular for use in recipes. They contain a number of bioactive compounds believed to have health benefits.

26. Tomatoes

omatoes are usually categorized as a vegetable, although they are technically a fruit. They are tasty and loaded with nutrients like potassium and vitamin C.

More Healthy Vegetables

These weren't listed, but are also very healthy: Artichokes, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, celery, eggplant, leeks, lettuce, mushrooms, radishes, squash, swiss chard, turnips, zucchini.

27-32: Fish and Seafood

Fish and other seafoods tend to be very healthy and nutritious.
They are especially rich in in omega-3 fatty acids and iodine, two nutrients that most people don't get enough of.
Studies show that people who eat the most foods from the sea (especially fish) tend to live longer and have a lower risk of many diseases, including heart disease, dementia and depression ( 9, 10, 11).

27. Salmon

Salmon is a type of oily fish that is incredibly popular due to its excellent taste and high amount of nutrients, including protein and Omega-3 fatty acids. It also contains some vitamin D.

28. Sardines

Sardines are small, oily fish that are among the most nutritious foods you can eat. They contain hefty amounts of the majority of nutrients required by the human body.

29. Shellfish

Shellfish isn't eaten very often, which is a shame because it contains more nutrients than almost every other food. It ranks similar to organ meats when it comes to nutrient density. Edible shellfish includes clams, mollusks and oysters.

30. Shrimp

Shrimp is a type of animal found in the sea. It tends to be low in fat and calories, but high in protein. It is also loaded with various other nutrients, including selenium and vitamin B12.

31. Trout

Trout is another type of delicious oily fish, similar to salmon.

32. Tuna

Tuna is very popular in Western countries, and tends to be low in fat and calories, but high in protein. It is perfect people who need to add more protein to their diets, while keeping calories low.

33-35: Grains

Grains have gotten a bad rap in recent years, mainly due to them being a forbidden food on the wildly popular paleo diet.
However, it is a mistake to lump all grains together. There are many different types of grains, and some of them are very healthy.
Just keep in mind that they are still pretty high in carbs, so they are not recommended on a low carb diet.

33. Brown Rice

Rice is one of the oldest cereal grains, and is currently a staple food for more than half of people in the world. Brown (whole grain) rice is fairly nutritious, with a decent amount of fiber, vitamin B1 and magnesium.

34. Oats

Oats are incredibly healthy. They are loaded with nutrients, and also contain powerful fibers called beta-glucans, shown to have numerous benefits.

35. Quinoa

Quinoa has become incredibly popular among health conscious individuals in recent years. It is a tasty grain that is high in nutrients like fiber and magnesium. It is also an excellent source of plant-based protein.

36-37: Breads

Most people eat a lot of bread.
For those who are trying to adopt a healthier diet for the first time, it can be extremely challenging to find something to eat instead of bread.
Fortunately, there are several healthy (or at least "less bad") options available.

36. Ezekiel Bread

Ezekiel bread may be the healthiest bread you can buy at the store. It is made from organic, sprouted whole grains, and also contains several types of legumes.

37. Homemade low-carb breads

The safest choice for healthy bread is something that you make yourself. Here is a list of 15 recipes for healthy breads that are gluten-free and low in carbs.

38-40: Legumes

Legumes are another food group that has been unfairly demonized in recent years.
It is true that legumes contain anti-nutrients, substances that can interfere with digestion and absorption of nutrients.
However, these anti-nutrients can be eliminated by soaking and properly preparing the legumes before eating them (12).
What we're left with is an incredibly cheap source of quality nutrition, including a great plant-based source of protein.

38. Green beans

Green beans, also called string beans, are unripe varieties of the common bean. They are very popular in Western countries.

39. Kidney beans

Kidney beans are loaded with various vitamins and minerals, and are very high in fiber. Just make sure to cook them properly, because they are toxic when raw.

40. Lentils

Lentils are another popular legume. They are high in fiber and are among the best sources of plant-based protein. Lentils also taste delicious, and have a very satisfying texture.

41-43: Dairy

Many people can't tolerate dairy products.
However, for people who do tolerate them, they are a healthy source of various important nutrients.
Full-fat dairy products seem to be the best, and studies show that people who eat the most full-fat dairy have a lower risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes (13, 14).
If the dairy comes from grass-fed cows, then that may be even better, as it is higher in some bioactive fatty acids like CLA.

41. Cheese

Cheese is incredibly nutritious, and a single slice of it contains about the same nutrients as an entire cup of milk. It is also one of the most delicious foods you can eat.

42. Whole milk

Whole milk is very high in vitamins, minerals, quality animal protein and healthy fats. It is one of the best sources of calcium.

43. Yogurt

Yogurt is made from milk that is fermented by adding live bacteria to it. It has many of the same health effects as milk, except with the added benefits of the friendly probiotic bacteria.

44-46: Fats and Oils

The "war" on fat is lost, and many fats and oils have been making a comeback as health foods.

44. Butter from grass-fed cows

Butter from cows that were fed on grass is high in many important nutrients, including the very important vitamin K2.

45. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is loaded with powerful fatty acids called medium chain triglycerides. Coconut oil may have benefits for Alzheimer's disease, and has been shown to help you lose belly fat (15, 16).

46. Extra virgin olive oil

Extra virgin olive oil is the healthiest fat on earth. It contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and is very high in antioxidants with powerful health benefits.
47-48: Tubers
Tubers are the storage organs of some plants. They tend to contain a number of beneficial nutrients.

47. Potatoes

Potatoes are a very popular food around the world. They are loaded with potassium, and contain a little bit of almost every nutrient we need, including vitamin C.
They are also incredibly fulfilling. One study found that boiled potatoes were by far the most filling of 38 foods that were tested (17).

48. Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are among the most delicious starchy foods you can eat. They are loaded with antioxidants and all sorts of healthy nutrients.

49. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is incredibly popular in the natural health community. Studies show that it can help lower blood sugar levels and cause modest weight loss (18, 19).
It is great to use in salad dressings, and to add flavor to meals.

50. Dark Chocolate

Not only is dark chocolate the most delicious food on this list, but it may also be the healthiest.
Dark chocolate is loaded with fiber and magnesium, and is one of the most powerful sources of antioxidants in existence (20).

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