Goji berries during pregnancy? If you’re expecting, you might be pondering if it’s okay to consume goji berries. Goji berries, also known as wolfberries, are a vibrant scarlet Chinese fruit. They are frequently ingested for alleged health advantages such as enhanced immune function, improved eye health, and greater energy. However, when you are trying to conceive you must remember few things In this article, we will look at goji berries and pregnancy, including whether they are safe to consume and what possible advantages and risks they may offer to expectant mothers.
What Are Goji Berries?
Goji berries are a type of fruit that comes from the Lycium barbarum plant.They are most commonly produced in China and Mongolia, but they have been used in traditional Chinese medicines for thousands of year. Goji berries are renowned for their bright crimson colour and sweet flavour comparable to raisins.They can be used fresh or dried, and can be mixed into smoothies, salads and other meals.
Nutritional Value of Goji Berries
Goji berries have a lot of nutrients making them a popular choice for people looking to improve health. Goji berries are high in vitamins A, C, iron, zinc and antioxidants.. One ounce of goji berries contains approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g |
| Calories | 349 kcal |
| Protein | 14.3 g |
| Fat | 1.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 77.0 g |
| Fiber | 13.0 g |
| Vitamin C | 48 mg |
| Vitamin A | 2400 µg (300% DV) |
| Iron | 9 mg (50% DV) |
| Zinc | 2 mg (18% DV) |
| Selenium | 50 µg (91% DV) |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 1.3 mg (100% DV) |
| Niacin (B3) | 4.4 mg (28% DV) |
| Potassium | 1120 mg (24% DV) |
| Copper | (144% DV) |
| Manganese | 3.3 mg (143% DV) |
Benefits of Goji Berries During Pregnancy
There are several potential benefits of eating goji berries during pregnancy. Here are some of the most notable:
Effective for morning sickness
Morning sickness is one of the most common symptom of pregnancy. Eating goji berries can provide some relief from the morning sickness. Goji berries have beneficial effects on pregnancy related malaise and morning sickness.
Improved Immune Function
Goji berries are believed to help improve immune function, which can be especially important during pregnancy. This is due to the fact that pregnancy can decrease a woman’s immune system, making it more susceptible for illness.
Goji berries can be eaten by pregnant women to increase their immunity and lower their chance of becoming sick.
Maintain Blood sugar levels
Goji berries are low in glycemic index. Due to there slow absorption they cause a gradual increase in blood sugar levels and prevents sudden spikes in blood sugar levels. The slow release of carbohydrates into bloodstream helps stabilize blood sugar levels, and avoids insulin spikes or crashes that can be caused by high-glycemic foods.
Some compounds like Polysaccharides that are found in goji berries helps in increasing insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake into the cells. This improves the ability of cells to use glucose for energy. It can also help regulate blood sugar levels. Research have shown that Goji berries improves insulin sensitivity that eventually results in increase glucose uptake.
Promotes good sleep
Pregnancy related sleep deprivation is one of the concerns for all the womens who are pregnant.Goji berries are used for the sound sleep and also for reducing depression and anxiety in traditional Chinese medicine.Pregnant women can use the Goji berries to lower stress levels and induce sleep.
Helps in constipation
Constipation is a common issue during pregnancy, and there are several safe and effective ways to relieve it, one of them is taking high fiber containing diet.While goji berries are often promoted as a superfood with digestive benefits, Goji berries are a good source of fiber. Eating them during pregnancy can helps in prevention of the constipation.
Increased Energy
Many pregnant women feel fatigued and lack of energy in their first trimester.
Goji berries are a good source of carbohydrates, which can provide a quick energy boost. They also contain B vitamins, which are essential for energy production.
Better Eye Health
Goji berries are high in vitamin A, which is good for your eyes.This is especially essential for pregnant women, as vitamin A deficiency can cause eye issues and other consequences.
Reduced Inflammation
Goji berries contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body. It can be beneficial especially during the pregnancy as inflammation plays a major role in the complications like preeclampsia.
Improved Digestion
Goji berries are packed with fiber which will make your digestion better and also helps in the prevention of constipation.This is important during pregnancy, as constipation is a common problem that can be uncomfortable and even painful.
Can you eat goji berries during pregnancy?
According to Herbal medicine: Biomolecular and clinical aspects which highlights the negative affects of betaine it states that Betaine which is a mineral found in goji berries which known to cause abortion and menstruation (NCBI) according to (Drugs.com) the safety status of the betaine is not known.
Goji berries can also mimics the effects of estrogen as mentioned in the chinese book 1998 which explain the pharmacological study on the goji berries water extract.
One research that has been done on rabbits found that goji berries improves the reproductive and productive traits and also shows higher litter weight in rabbits when they are exposed to supplementation of 1% goji berries. Another study shows that 3% goji berries helps in lowering the blood glucose levels due to the better insulin response.
So whats the take away? There is not enough information available about the safety of gojiberries for pregnant women. It is better to avoid gojiberries during pregnancy (WebMD).
Betaine in pregnancy?
Very few studies have examined betaine in pregnancy and the possible effects on the fetus. It is therefore important to understand the benefits and risks associated with betaine, and to consult your doctor if you are unsure if it is safe for your health.
Risks of Eating Goji Berries During Pregnancy
While there are many potential benefits of eating goji berries during pregnancy, there are also some risks to consider. Here are a few potential risks:
Pesticide Residues
Goji berries are often grown using pesticides, which can leave residue on the fruit. Pesticides exposure has been associated with negative health effects and this is a point to be concerned about.To reduce your exposure to pesticides, it’s best to choose organic goji berries whenever possible.
Allergic Reactions
While rare, some people may be allergic to goji berries. Hives, itching, swelling, and trouble breathing are all symptoms of an allergic response. Stop ingesting goji berries instantly if you experience any of these symptoms and seek medical care. Some researches have shown that allergic reactions can be from the Goji berries.
How to Incorporate Goji Berries into Your Pregnancy Diet
If you are pregnant and decided to eat goji berries so there are alot of ways available you can incorporate them into your diet.Here are a few ideas:
- Add goji berries to your morning smoothie for an extra boost of nutrition
- Mix dried goji berries into your oatmeal or yogurt for a tasty and nutritious snack
- Use goji berries as a topping for salads or stir-fries
- Enjoy goji berry tea as a caffeine-free alternative to coffee or black tea
Goji berries, like all other foods, should be eaten in moderation during pregnancy. No doubt it has some beneficial health effects and should be a part of well balanced diet.
Conclusion
Goji berries can be safe and healthy food choices during pregnancy. Goji berries are full of vitamins, minerals, as well as antioxidants. They can be beneficial for your health, including better vision, improved immune function and increased energy. Consuming Goji berries in moderate quantities is considered safe during pregnancy but You should be aware of potential dangers associated with the use of Goji berries and it is recommended to always consult with your healthcare provider before taking goji berries . Goji berries should only be consumed in moderation.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:
Meditation for getting pregnant?
Inositol breastfeeding during pregnancy?
when to start drinking okra water during pregnancy?
Is bakuchiol safe in pregnancy?
Amniotic fluid injection side effects?
Can i get laser hair removal while breastfeeding?
Gurgling water sound in belly during pregnancy?
Amazing placenta tincture benefits?
Are Enemas Safe During Pregnancy? | Risks, Benefits, and Alternatives
Why to avoid banana during pregnancy? The Surprising Facts
Can You Take Theraflu While Pregnant? A Comprehensive Guide for Expecting Mothers
Understanding and Managing Lower Back Pain After a C-Section
Early Signs of Pregnancy: Understanding presumptive signs of pregnancy
Can you eat crawfish while pregnant? A Comprehensive Guide
“Lemon Juice and Pregnancy Tests” will lemon juice make a pregnancy test positive
“Bump-Friendly Remedies: Natural Ways to Relieve Cough during Pregnancy”
Combating Postpartum Hair Loss : Postpartum hair loss home remedies
Decoding the Connection: Is Diarrhea a Sign of Pregnancy Implantation?
Milk Thistle for Breastfeeding: Nurturing Motherhood Naturally
Dark Belly After Giving Birth: The Importance of Belly Skin Care After Childbirth
Navigating Pregnancy Safe Hairspray: A Comprehensive Guide