Let’s know about Strawberries during pregnancy. Since it is recommended to reduce the intake of sugar during pregnancy, fruit salad is a good option when you are craving something sweet. Sour-sweet strawberry is liked by almost everyone among the many fruits put in fruit salad. However, it is necessary to take some precautions regarding eating strawberries while pregnant.
Can Pregnant Women Eat Strawberries?
When it comes to deciding whether strawberries should be included in a pregnant woman’s diet, you should know that there are actually many benefits of eating strawberries and they should not be avoided at all.
Nutritional Value of Strawberries
The nutrients present in a cup of strawberries can effectively benefit a pregnant woman.
| Nutrients | Quantity |
| folate | 30 µg |
| selenium | 1.2 mg |
| phosphorus | 32 mg |
| fiber | 4 grams |
| calcium | 25 mg |
| magnesium | 16.5 mg |
| Iron | 0.7 mg |
| vitamin C | 95 mg |
| Vitamin A | 0.0135 mg |
| potassium | 45 mg |
| carbohydrates | 11.7 grams |
| protein | 1.2 grams |
Health benefits of eating strawberries during pregnancy
Strawberries are a seasonal fruit, and it is important that you eat plenty of them when they are in season.
1. Good for Heart
Different studies have shown that strawberries contain certain substances that lower bad cholesterol within the body and reduce plaque in the arteries. Thus, consuming strawberries reduces the chances of suffering from any heart-related diseases and helps you maintain good health.
2. Improves vision
Vitamin A is present in abundance in strawberries. It acts on the cornea and retina of the eyes, strengthening them, and consequently protecting the eyes, as well as reducing the chances of age-related blindness or even cataracts.
3. Increases immunity
Vitamin C is also found in sufficient quantity in strawberries. It is helpful in strengthening the immunity of the body, protecting it from many infections.
4. Reduces the effects of aging
Toxins in the body cause internal damage and accelerate aging. Various nutrients found in strawberries help in repairing this damage and thus prevent rapid aging.
Tasty Strawberry Recipes for Pregnant Women
One of the best ways to consume strawberries in a quick and delicious way is by making a smoothie. Here we have told you some great recipes for making smoothies.
1. Banana Strawberry Smoothie
Having this smoothie with your breakfast can be a great way to start the day.
Material:
- Vanilla yogurt – 1/2 cup
- Oats – 1/2 cup
- Almond milk – 1/2 cup
- Banana – 1
- Strawberries – 1 cup
Method:
- Blend all ingredients together.
- If you like your smoothie thinner, add some milk and mix.
- Top it off with some strawberry slices or add ice cubes if you want to drink it chilled.
2. Kiwi Strawberry Smoothie
If you’re looking for tangy flavor along with nutrition, then this smoothie will suit you.
Material:
- Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon
- Milk – 1 cup
- Kiwi pieces – 1/2 cup
- Strawberry pieces – 1 cup
Method:
- Blend all the ingredients together.
- You can make it slightly thicker by adding milk.
- Garnish with some kiwi pieces, strawberries and ice cubes.
3. Healthy Strawberry Preserve
Strawberry puree can be made during strawberry season and preserved for use in months to come. It is healthy and can give you that taste even after the strawberry season is over.
Material:
Strawberries – as many as you want
Method:
- Blend all the strawberries together until you get a smooth puree. If you want to make it in large quantity, then take a few strawberries and make a puree.
- Freeze the puree in an airtight ziplock bag, and use when needed. Instead of one large bag, you can store the puree in several smaller bags so you don’t have to defrost all the puree when needed.
- After defrosting, you can use this strawberry puree to make smoothies, milkshakes etc.
- Tip – Keep in mind that while preserving strawberries, use only ripe strawberries, as raw strawberries can turn sour.
Risks of Eating Strawberries in Pregnancy
Although strawberries are generally safe, sometimes there may be situations when its consumption can be risky for a pregnant woman.
- If there is a history of strawberry allergy in your family, there are chances that you too may develop the same. Any allergy during pregnancy can also affect the unborn baby.
- Eating raw fruits and vegetables can expose you to E.coli bacteria and other parasites. The infection caused by this can reach the baby through the placenta and harm it. Therefore, wash strawberries thoroughly before eating.
Strawberry Eating Tips
Eating strawberries isn’t rocket science. Keeping in mind some easy tips, you will be safe and will also be able to take its spicy test.
- Balance strawberries with other fruits and vegetables for proper nutrition.
- Try your best to make strawberry smoothie at home with fresh and washed strawberries.
- Don’t eat strawberry jam or anything that uses preserved strawberries.
- Before starting eating strawberries daily, check whether you are allergic to it.
Consuming strawberries during the early days of pregnancy can have a lot of benefits, but can cause problems if precautions are not taken before consumption. The most important thing that you have to do is to follow the basics and wash and use the strawberries properly.
