Should pregnant mother eat grapefruit or not?

Grapefruit is a delicious, nutritious fruit, but pregnant mothers also need to note some problems when eating grapefruit during pregnancy.

If you are craving a few grapefruit pods when you feel sad but unsure of the safety of this fruit, read our article below to understand better.

About the grapefruit

Grapefruit is a citrus fruit. This is also a native fruit of Southeast Asian countries, but now grapefruit is available in most parts of the world. Grapefruit is larger than grapefruit, with white, yellow, or pink or red flesh. Grapefruit peels are usually green or yellow in color, and taste sweet or sour depending on the type. The white grapefruit has a milder flavor than the pink grapefruit.

This is one of the lesser known citrus fruits. In terms of nutrition, grapefruit includes all substances found in citrus cousins ​​such as oranges , grapefruit and tangerines.

Benefits of eating grapefruit during pregnancy

All citrus fruits containing the same nutrients have a difference in the% DV (daily value). So you can get the same source of nutrients if you eat an orange, a grapefruit or a grapefruit. An example of a difference in their nutritional composition is the antioxidant compounds found in various citrus fruits. Here are some of the health benefits of grapefruit during pregnancy:

All citrus fruits like grapefruit are good sources of folic acid. The lack of folic acid during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects of the fetus;

Grapefruit is a rich source of vitamin C. Pregnant women need at least 85 mg of this nutrient per day. Mothers enjoying a fresh grapefruit or grapefruit juice are a great way to meet vitamin C requirements during pregnancy or find more variety of recipes to enjoy this fruit during pregnancy. In addition, vitamin C also protects us from cold infections and boosts the immune system. Moreover, vitamin C in grapefruit is an antioxidant that helps to protect cells for mothers;

Grapefruit is another source of antioxidants such as lycopene found in pink or red grapefruit varieties;

Grapefruit provides a source of fiber for the body. Regular consumption of grapefruit and citrus helps your body absorb a significant amount of fiber, thus alleviating problems during pregnancy such as constipation ;

Grapefruit supplements a good source of potassium and calcium. Potassium keeps muscles and nerves healthy. It also helps maintain normal blood pressure for pregnant mothers. You can also eat grapefruit to meet the calcium needs that the body is needed during pregnancy.

Is it safe to eat grapefruit during pregnancy?

Eating grapefruit and other citrus fruits during pregnancy is considered safe. However, there are some issues you should pay attention to when eating these fruits, it is better to discuss with your doctor for more information.

If the body absorbs vitamin C in higher than recommended doses it can cause certain side effects such as diarrhea and kidney stones. During pregnancy, you will notice side effects such as nausea, cramps and heartburn after eating foods rich in vitamin C like grapefruit. Please share this concern with your doctor. Consuming too much vitamin C can also harm the fetus, as your body cannot store excess vitamin C. If you notice any unusual reactions during pregnancy as mentioned above, consult your doctor about this immediately;

Some of the active ingredients found in grapefruit and other citrus fruits like grapefruit may interact with cancer and heart cancer medications. A good example is the furanocoumarins found in grapefruit. Please share with your doctor about citrus consumption during pregnancy if you are taking the above medications and medications.

So, if your doctor allows you to eat grapefruit in your diet, you should also consider eating grapefruit in moderate amounts. Eating a healthy and sensible diet will also keep your baby healthy!