Watermelon
Watermelon is a nutrient-rich tropical fruit. This popular summer fruit helps keep the stomach cool, treating the usual pregnancy symptoms of cramps, morning sickness and heartburn.
Stay cool by eating or drinking watermelon. The fruit is filled with water, vitamins and minerals and may lower blood pressure. However, excessive intake could have adverse effects.
Watermelon Nutrition
Nutritional information of 100 g of watermelon as per USDA.
- Energy - 30 Kcal
- Carbohydrate - 8 g
- Protein - 0.6 g
- Fat - 0.2 g
- Cholesterol - 0 mg
- Potassium - 112 mg
Can we eat watermelon during pregnancy?
Yes, it is safe to eat watermelons during pregnancy. When consumed in moderation, watermelons benefit a pregnant woman and the child in the womb and are also completely safe.
Most people throw away the seeds while eating watermelon. The nutrients in these seeds can be beneficial for both the mother and the developing child. When roasted, watermelon seeds become crispy and can be a tasty and healthy snack.
The high vitamin C concentration of watermelon seeds helps strengthen the developing fetus’s immune system.
Watermelon seeds are a good source of protein, healthy fats, folate, vitamin B and vital minerals like iron, magnesium, potassium and zinc, which help the foetus grow and develop normally.
Benefits of watermelon during pregnancy
Heartburn relief
Gastrointestinal problems, such as acid reflux, are common during pregnancy. Watermelon soothes the food pipe and the stomach, thereby reducing such issues. Heartburn will be immediately relieved by its cooling properties.
Treats morning sickness
Nausea and vomiting are common during pregnancy, especially in the first few weeks of pregnancy. Though it is termed morning sickness, these episodes can happen at any hour of the day.
The best remedy for this issue is a glass of watermelon juice in the morning. A morning drink of watermelon juice is highly energising and refreshing in addition to relieving morning sickness.
Beats dehydration
It is recommended to consume adequate water during pregnancy to prevent dehydration. Premature labour and delivery can also result from dehydration.
Eating watermelon helps you stay hydrated as it is more than 90% water.
Prevents oedema
Oedema, often known as swelling in the hands and feet, is a common problem for pregnant women.
The unusual buildup of fluid in certain body tissues is oedema. Watermelons’ high water content aids in clearing obstructions and relieves oedema.
Subsidies muscle cramps
Muscle cramps are another issue most pregnant women have besides morning sickness. As pregnancy proceeds, changes in the body cause changes in the muscles, which cause pain.
L-citrulline, an amino acid, helps muscles obtain oxygen more quickly, reducing muscle discomfort. Watermelon has large amounts of this amino acid. Eating watermelon can relieve pregnancy-related cramping.
Prevents pigmentation
During pregnancy, skin problems, including pigmentation, are common. Watermelon promotes easy digestion and maintains normal bowel movements. This makes the skin feel better and maintains its glow. Consuming watermelon during pregnancy helps prevent skin issues.
Constipation relief
Constipation is a very common problem for pregnant women.
A safe and effective treatment for irregular bowel motions is watermelon. Its high fibre level promotes the development of stools, while the water content clears the digestive tract, putting pressure on the bowels.
Cures Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Many pregnant women experience urinary tract infections (UTIs) in the early stages of their pregnancy. It’s a common yet troublesome issue that becomes worse as taking the right treatment and medication is a hindrance during pregnancy.
Watermelon is a tried-and-true natural remedy to cure this problem.
Due to its high-water content and antibacterial properties, this luscious fruit is ideal for maintaining the health of the urinary system. Watermelon assists in the urinary tract’s cleansing process, relieving the need to urinate frequently and in pain.
Diuretic and detoxifying effects
The diuretic and detoxifying properties of watermelon help in the maintenance of internal organ health, such as the kidney, and lower the risk of UTIs, which are frequent in pregnant women.
Boosts immunity
A pregnant woman’s body fights off illnesses and infections for the mother and the developing child. A decrease in immunity levels could occasionally result from this.
Lycopene, a potent antioxidant found in watermelons, gives them their vibrant red colour and is also known to strengthen the immune system.
Reduces preeclampsia occurrence
Watermelon has the highest concentration of lycopene among all fruits and vegetables. There is less chance of preeclampsia during pregnancy due to this factor. Preeclampsia may be risky for both the mother and the child.
Supports fetus development
Watermelon is especially rich in calcium and potassium, which are essential for optimal bone development in a child.
Increases energy levels
Watermelon is rich in minerals, including potassium and magnesium, as well as vitamins A, B1, and B6. These nutrients provide the body with high energy because they are natural energy enhancers. They are beneficial for the growth of the baby’s nervous, immunological and optical systems.
Reduces heat rashes
Pregnancy increases body heat, which can lead to heat rashes that can cause itching and irritation. Watermelon is a great remedy for these rashes due to its strong moisturising and cooling properties.
This summer fruit also keeps the skin hydrated and free from itching by preventing prolonged dryness.
Ways to eat watermelon during pregnancy
Sometimes, watermelon is all a pregnant woman can eat during morning sickness while pregnant.
Watermelon can be taken in the form of fresh juice, watermelon ice pop or just a large slice of watermelon as such.
It is one of the summer’s ideal nutrient bundles due to its abundance of health benefits and juicy, refreshing flavour.
Watermelon juice
Method of preparation
- Blend in cut, seedless watermelon pieces for 30 seconds.
- The juice will be too fibrous. According to personal taste, you can strain the juice or drink it as such.
- Serve the juice immediately or refrigerate it.
- Add 1 tablespoon of citrus juice (such as lime, lemon or orange) to enhance the flavour.
Watermelon milkshake
Ingredients
Preparation
- Blend all the ingredients to produce a watermelon milkshake.
- Serve the milkshake immediately. Add ice cubes if necessary.
Watermelon salad with avocado
Ingredients
- Avocado - 2 large
- Watermelons cut - 4 cups
- Balsamic vinegar dressing for taste
Preparation
- Peel and cut two avocados and place them in a bowl.
- Combine this with four cups of cubed watermelons.
- Add the balsamic vinegar dressing before consuming.
Side effects of eating watermelon in pregnancy
Though watermelon has several health benefits, excessive watermelon intake during pregnancy can lead to complications.
These are a few adverse effects that might result from consuming too much watermelon when pregnant.
- Consuming too much watermelon can raise blood sugar levels, which increases a pregnant woman’s risk of developing gestational Diabetes.
- Eating watermelon left out in the open for a while may induce stomach problems. Thus, always consume freshly cut watermelon or freshly made watermelon juice, especially during pregnancy.
- The detoxifying properties of watermelon help maintain internal organ health. However, excessive watermelon consumption may cause the body to lose important minerals and toxins.
- Like other meals, watermelon should not be eaten while pregnant without consulting a doctor. Moderation is always the key.
Conclusion
Watermelon consumption during pregnancy provides many essential nutrients to the body. The fibre and nutrients in them help ease the physical discomforts in a pregnant woman, such as morning sickness and dehydration.
Watermelon can be eaten raw, as juice or added to salads. However, excessive consumption of fruit may cause side effects. Moderate consumption is advisable.
It is always recommended to consult your doctor before taking any medications and food during pregnancy.
