Eating Flax Seeds While Pregnant: Potential Benefits and Tips
Pregnancy cravings may want you to indulge in the most succulent dishes. While it is okay to give into your cravings at times, it is also important to maintain a balance and give your body the nutrition it needs, especially during pregnancy. When you are responsible for the nourishment of yourself and the life growing inside you, it is crucial to be mindful of your nutrition requirements.
In this beautiful journey, you can include certain superfoods in your diet that can give you the much-needed boost of essential nutrients. One such superfood is flax seeds. Consuming flax seeds during pregnancy can elevate your healthy eating goals and provide a plethora of benefits. If you are wondering whether flax seeds are good for pregnancy, what their benefits are and how to include them in your diet, you have come to the right place. In this blog, you will learn all there is to know about eating flax seeds while being pregnant.
Is It Safe To Consume Flax Seeds During Pregnancy?
Flax seeds are generally safe to be consumed during pregnancy. They are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, fibre and lignans which are substances with antioxidant effects. However, some doctors recommend staying away from flax seed oil during pregnancy as it may be linked to mild hormonal effects and premature birth. To find out whether eating flax seeds while pregnant might be good for you or not, it is always better to consult your healthcare provider. Being mindful of the quantity consumed is also important, so talk to your doctor before making any dietary changes.
Benefits Of Eating Flax Seeds During Pregnancy
1. Supports Brain Development
Flax seeds are rich in alpha-linolenic acid, which is an omega-3 fatty acid that supports the development of the brain and eyes of your baby. Omega-3s also play a critical role during pregnancy since they enhance the neurological and visual development of the foetus. Consuming flax seeds during pregnancy regularly can help you meet your daily recommended nutrients essential for your baby’s heart and brain health.
2. Promotes Heart Health
During pregnancy, maintaining the heart health of the mother and the baby is extremely important. Flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and decrease the risk of heart diseases. This healthy fat could regulate normal blood pressure levels, decrease cholesterol levels and therefore promote cardiovascular well-being during pregnancy.
3. Regulates Hormone Production
Flax seeds are rich in lignans, plant compounds known to help regulate hormone levels. Hormonal balance is essential for both the mother's health as well as the baby's growth during pregnancy. Lignans might balance the production of oestrogen, which helps stabilise mood swings that are very common during pregnancy.
4. Strengthens Immune System
Pregnancy takes a toll on the woman’s immune system. This makes it important to increase the intake of foods that help strengthen the immune system. Antioxidants in flax seed help protect cells against the damaging action of free radicals, ensuring healthy defensive reactions against viral infections. Flax seeds, can therefore, help reduce the risk of infections and diseases during pregnancy.
5. Improves Digestive Function
Constipation is one of the most common complaints during pregnancy. Hormonal imbalance and pressure from a growing foetus can disturb the regular bowel movements. Flax seeds are very rich in dietary fibre, which may ensure regular bowel movements and improve digestion. You can add flax seeds to your diet to ease the discomfort associated with constipation.
6. Help With Pregnancy Cravings
Flaxseeds are rich in fibre and healthy oils which keep one fuller for longer periods. This fullness may help address the pregnancy craving by regulating the need to indulge in less healthy foods.
7. Promotes Better Skin And Hair
The sudden imbalance in the hormonal levels may take a toll on your skin and hair health. The beneficial fatty acids and antioxidants in flax seeds enhance the elasticity and hydrate the skin, thus helping reduce the chances of developing stretch marks. Besides, the nutrients in flax seeds can help in producing healthier hair, reduced hair loss, improved shine and strength.
By knowing and leveraging the advantages of flax seeds, you can support a healthier pregnancy journey, for you and your baby. Always make sure to discuss any kind of dietary change with your doctor to ensure the changes work best for your individual health needs.
How To Incorporate Flax Seeds In Your Diet During Pregnancy
Flax seeds can be easily added to your diet and in various forms. Here are a few ideas:
You can grind and sprinkle ground flax seeds on your cereal and yoghurt.
Sprinkle them into your smoothies.
Use flax seed oil with your dressings while making salads.
Stir ground flax seeds into soups and stews for a fibre-rich addition.
Incorporate ground flax seeds into bread, muffins, and cookies as a substitute for part of the flour.
Make flax seed laddus for a sweater and more indulging experience.
Please consult with your healthcare provider before you add any of these suggestions to your existing diet.
Summary
To sum it up, flax seeds can help you enjoy a healthy pregnancy. They offer a plethora of benefits that support your dieting requirements during pregnancy.
Consuming flax seeds during pregnancy can promote brain development, heart health and improve the digestive function. Through these aspects, both you and your baby can have a healthier pregnancy journey. To reap maximum benefits of eating flax seeds during pregnancy, consume it in moderation and only upon consultation with your healthcare provider.