Let us know about black gram during pregnancy. black gram is a pulse that contains essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that our body cannot make naturally. According to Indian Ayurvedic practices, urad dal called Masha has been considered highly beneficial during pregnancy since time immemorial. It is still widely used in Ayurvedic and alternative medicine. However, there is some speculation regarding its safe consumption during pregnancy.
Is it safe to eat urad dal during pregnancy?
It is an old belief that urad dal is not safe to be consumed during pregnancy but should this fact be taken seriously? Urad dal is safe and beneficial during pregnancy if certain precautions are taken, which are mentioned below. But first, let us know about its benefits.
What important nutrients are found in black gram?
Black gram is not only rich in fatty acids, but it also contains several nutrients:
| nutrients | nutritional value |
| essential fatty acids | One cup contains 603 mg of omega-3 and 43 mg of omega-6. |
| calories | 341 per 100 grams |
| total fat | 1.6 grams per 100 grams |
| sodium | 38 mg per 100 grams |
| potassium | 983 mg per 100 grams |
| total carbohydrate | 59 grams per 100 grams |
| protein | 25 grams per 100 grams |
| calcium | 0.13 per 100 grams |
| Iron | 42 % per 100 grams |
| Vitamin B-6 | 15% per 100 grams |
| magnesium | 66% per 100 grams |
10 health benefits of urad dal during pregnancy
Loaded with so many nutrients, urad dal is one food item that has the following benefits during pregnancy:
1. Fetal brain growth
The essential fatty acids in urad dal help in boosting the brain development of the unborn baby.
2. Aids digestion and urination
Fiber-rich urad dal helps maintain good gut bacteria that help our digestive and urinary systems.
3. Antioxidant
The antioxidants present in urad dal prevent various diseases. Antioxidants fight aging, cell and tissue damage, and various types of cancer. They also help in keeping our hair and skin healthy.
4. Cholesterol Check
The fatty acid may lower high cholesterol levels in pregnant women who are at risk for cholesterol problems.
5. Strong Bones
Urad dal helps the body absorb calcium and contains several minerals that keep bones strong and healthy.
6. Prevention of anemia
The amount of iron present in urad dal helps prevent anemia in pregnant women.
7. Thoughts of the Heart
It protects the heart with its high fiber, magnesium and potassium content.
8. Energy Bank
It contains a lot of energy-giving nutrients for pregnant women to beat fatigue.
9. Extra Protein
Its high protein content gives pregnant women the extra protein needed for the formation of new cells.
10. Relief in pain and swelling
Urad dal has properties that relieve pain and inflammation.
Tasty Urad Dal Ladoo Recipe for Pregnant Women
There are dozens of recipes for urad dal, but one of the easiest and super healthy is urad dal laddoos. It takes only half an hour to prepare this dessert, which can be eaten as a snack anytime, anywhere. Urad dal laddoos are a healthy option even when you are craving something sweet during pregnancy!
Material
- Urad Dal – 1 cup
- Sugar – 1 cup
- Ghee – 1/2 cup
- Cashew nuts fried in ghee
Method
Roast the urad dal well so that the bacteria get killed by the heat. Then blend it in a blender. Add sugar and ghee. Make small laddoos from the mixture. Roast some cashews in ghee and apply on top of the laddoos.
Precautions to be taken while consuming black gram during pregnancy
Urad dal should be washed thoroughly and cooked till it boils well. This is because it may contain dangerous bacteria such as E. coli, listeria or salmonella. Cooking it to boiling point can destroy them. These bacteria are especially harmful to pregnant women because they can cause diseases that can lead to preterm birth, miscarriage, stillbirth, and other serious problems in the newborn. Avoid this when you eat outside food as you do not know how well it will be cooked.
Do not eat too much urad dal during pregnancy. This is because it increases the level of uric acid and this can cause problems with circulatory and kidney functions.
Another problem with any beans is that they can cause acidity. So, you should consume it in moderation if you are prone to acidity during pregnancy.
Urad dal can be cooked in many ways. You can use it as a tempering when you prepare other dishes, especially vegetarian dishes. It is a good source of proteins, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamin B6. As long as you follow the precautions, it would be a good idea to include some urad dal in your pregnancy diet.
