Kiwi, a small fruit full of healing and nutritional properties, can play a very important role in maintaining the health of the mother and fetus during pregnancy. This fruit, which is known for its special and sweet taste, can help strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, and reduce pregnancy-related problems due to its unique combination of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. In this article, we will take a closer look at the properties of kiwi during pregnancy and explain why its consumption can be beneficial for expectant mothers.
Kiwi properties in pregnancy
Increase vitamin C levels
One of the most prominent Kiwi properties In pregnancy, its richness from Vitamin C is Kiwi contains large amounts of vitamin C, which can help strengthen the immune system. During pregnancy, due to the hormonal and physiological changes that occur in the mother’s body, the immune system may be weaker than usual and the pregnant mother is more at risk of diseases and infections. Vitamin C plays a vital role in fighting viruses and bacteria and helps maintain the health of the skin and body tissues. Therefore, kiwi consumption can protect the mother’s body, especially during this sensitive period.
Digestive health and prevention of constipation
One of the common problems in during pregnancy It is constipation that can cause pain and discomfort for the mother. Kiwi, as a rich source of fiber, can improve the function of the digestive system and prevent constipation to help The fiber in kiwi is especially the type of soluble fiber that is absorbed in the intestines and helps to soften the stool and facilitate its passage. In addition, kiwi contains enzymes such as actinidin, which break down proteins and facilitate digestion, resulting in better digestive function and reduced flatulence And it brings stomach gases. For this reason, adding kiwi to your daily diet can naturally reduce digestive problems during pregnancy.
Prevent anemia
One of the main concerns during pregnancy is anemia caused by iron deficiency. Due to the higher need of the body for iron during this period, many pregnant mothers may face a deficiency of this mineral. Due to its abundant vitamin C, kiwi helps in better absorption of iron from food sources. Vitamin C makes non-heme iron (iron found in plant sources) better absorbed by the body. Therefore, kiwi consumption can help prevent anemia and improve blood iron levels along with foods that contain iron. This is especially important in the first months of pregnancy when the fetus needs a lot of iron.
Improve skin health
Another property of kiwi in pregnancy is its positive effect on skin health is During pregnancy, especially in the last months, the skin of the body is under pressure and stretch marks may appear in different areas of the body such as the abdomen, breasts and thighs. As a rich source of vitamin C, which is the main factor in the production of collagen in the skin, kiwi can help strengthen the elasticity and flexibility of the skin. Collagen makes the skin more effectively able to withstand stretching and changes in body size and prevent stretch marks. Therefore, consuming kiwi can help improve the condition of the skin during pregnancy.
Maternal cardiovascular health
During pregnancy, the mother’s cardiovascular health is especially important because more blood flows through the body and the heart has to work harder to pump this volume of blood. Kiwi can help maintain heart health due to its high content of potassium and antioxidants. Potassium especially in regulation blood pressure It has an effective role and can prevent high blood pressure (which is one of the common problems of pregnancy). Also, the antioxidants in kiwi, such as flavonoids, prevent heart diseases by reducing inflammation and protecting blood vessels, and generally help strengthen the mother’s cardiovascular system.
Positive effects on sleep quality
As a rich source of vitamins and minerals, kiwi can help improve sleep quality in pregnant mothers. Many pregnant women experience insomnia and sleep problems due to hormonal and physiological changes. Research has shown that consuming kiwi fruit before bed can improve sleep quality. This fruit contains serotonin, which is a chemical compound that helps regulate sleep. In addition, kiwi, having a high amount of antioxidants and fiber, reduces stress and anxiety caused during pregnancy and helps to sleep more easily.
Blood sugar control
Gestational diabetes is one of the common problems that may occur during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. As a fruit with a low glycemic index, kiwi can help control blood sugar. The sugar in kiwi enters the blood gradually and this causes the blood sugar level to increase steadily and evenly. Also, the fiber in kiwi can help reduce sugar absorption and better blood sugar control. Therefore, kiwi consumption can be especially beneficial for pregnant mothers who are exposed diabetes are pregnant, be useful.
Aids in digestion
Another digestive problem that pregnant women may face is bloating and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach. Kiwi contains the enzyme actinidin, which can help break down proteins and speed up the digestion process. These enzymes can also help reduce gas and bloating. Therefore, daily consumption of kiwi can create a feeling of lightness and comfort in the stomach and reduce digestive problems.
Abortion prevention
Kiwi is a rich source of folic acid, which is one of the most essential nutrients for pregnant women. Folic acid plays a vital role in the formation of the neural tube of the fetus, and its consumption at the beginning of pregnancy can help prevent neural defects in the fetus. In addition, folic acid is generally effective in cell division and fetal growth and can accelerate the process of fetal development. Therefore, kiwi as a natural source of folic acid can be useful for expectant mothers.
Harms of kiwi in pregnancy
Allergy to kiwi
One of the most common problems that some people may face when consuming kiwi is an allergy to this fruit. Some people may be allergic to the proteins in kiwifruit, which can cause symptoms such as itching in the mouth, swelling of the tongue and lips, shortness of breath, or even more severe allergic reactions such as anaphylaxis. If these symptoms occur, kiwi consumption should be stopped and a doctor should be consulted immediately.
Increased stomach acid
Due to the natural acids it contains, kiwi can be harmful for some pregnant women who have gastric reflux or heartburn. The acid in kiwi may irritate the stomach and increase reflux symptoms and aggravate the feeling of burning and discomfort. If you have these problems, it is better to limit the consumption of kiwi or use other types of fruits.
Effects on rare bleeding
Kiwi has blood-thinning properties and its high consumption can interfere with anti-coagulant drugs. This can be especially dangerous for mothers who take blood-clotting medications during pregnancy. In these cases, kiwi consumption should be done with caution and a doctor should be consulted before use.
Risk of diarrhea
Kiwi is known as a fruit rich in fiber. Consuming too much kiwi can cause diarrhea or digestive problems such as bloating and abdominal pain. For pregnant women, consuming too much fiber in some cases may lead to digestive discomfort. For this reason, kiwi should be consumed in moderation to avoid digestive problems.
Sensitivity to calcium in the body
Kiwi contains a significant amount of oxalate, which can cause problems in calcium absorption in some people, especially if consumed in large quantities. Increasing the amount of oxalate in the body can lead to the formation of kidney stones. During pregnancy, mothers should be careful not to consume too much kiwi along with other oxalate-containing foods, leading to calcium-related problems.
Interference with blood pressure medications
Kiwi contains high amounts of potassium, which is useful for regulating blood pressure. But high intake of potassium may interfere, especially for mothers taking blood pressure medications. If you are taking blood pressure medication, be sure to consult your doctor before consuming large amounts of kiwi.
Oral allergy stimulation
Kiwifruit may cause allergic oral reactions, especially for people with pollen allergies. These reactions are usually accompanied by symptoms such as itching and swelling in the mouth, tongue and throat. If these symptoms occur, it is better to stop using kiwi and consult a doctor.
Increased blood sugar levels
Although kiwifruit naturally has a low glycemic index, consuming too much of it may increase blood sugar levels, especially in pregnant women with gestational diabetes. Although kiwi can be beneficial for blood sugar control in moderate amounts, excessive consumption should be done with caution.
Abdominal discomfort and bloating
The fiber in kiwi can lead to abdominal discomfort, bloating and gas if consumed suddenly and in large amounts. During pregnancy, the digestive system is affected by hormonal changes and consuming too much fiber may cause more pain and discomfort. Therefore, it is recommended to consume kiwi gradually and carefully.
Risks of using kiwi
Raw kiwi, especially for pregnant women in the first months of pregnancy, may cause problems. Consuming raw kiwi may cause allergies or digestive problems in some people. To reduce these risks, it is better to wash kiwi well before consumption and if possible consume it in a small cooked or processed form.
Effects on the fetus in case of high consumption
Although kiwi is generally a useful fruit, consuming too much of it during pregnancy may increase side risks for the fetus. Chemicals and compounds found in kiwi, consumed in large quantities, may affect the nervous system of the fetus and even cause hormonal changes in the mother’s body. Therefore, kiwi consumption should be balanced.
Problems in high-risk pregnancies
For mothers who have problems during pregnancy such as high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, or immunodeficiency, consuming too much kiwi may cause more problems. Especially in mothers with a weak immune system, kiwi consumption should be done under the supervision of a doctor and carefully, because in some cases it can cause side problems.
Source Link
