During pregnancy, the eating habits of a person are under close monitoring precisely. Because a lot of food items that are safe and healthy for consumption. Otherwise are forbidden for use during pregnancy. Then how safe is eating oranges during pregnancy? Though fruits and vegetables form an integral part of the pregnancy food, specific fruits and vegetables are restricted from consumption during pregnancy. In this article, we will analyse the various benefits of eating orange juice during pregnancy. And, also what is the safe quantity of oranges per day during pregnancy.
Is it safe to eat oranges during pregnancy?
Orange is a great fruit to be added during pregnancy. Eating the whole orange is more beneficial as compared to orange juice from a nutrition point of view. Orange juices that are available in tetra pack should never be consumed during pregnancy. Due to the preservatives present in it. It might not be suitable for your health at this point in time. If the juice is only what you wish to drink, then go for freshly peeled orange juice as that can provide you with an equally good amount of nutrition.
Nutritional value of oranges:
The following is the nutritional value contained in 100g of oranges.
Nutrient Quantity
- Calories 47Kcal
- Water 87%
- Carbohydrates 11.8g
- Sugar 9.4g
- Protein 0.9g
- Fibre 2.4g
- Fat 0.1g
- Omega-3 0.01g
- Omega-6 0.02g
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Consuming orange juice during pregnancy:
Freshly extracted orange juice without any additives or preservatives is a great addition to the meal during pregnancy, and one can drink up to 2 glasses of orange juice every day. Orange juice is rich in calcium, and hence it aids in strengthening the bones. If you are lactose intolerant or if you are facing a lot of morning sickness then orange juice can be a great substitute to milk, and it can aid in overcoming morning sickness. Squeeze out fresh juice from oranges and consume this fresh and healthy drink like an energy booster. However, do not add too much sugar as that could increase your glucose level and end up in gestational diabetes.
Benefits of orange juice during pregnancy:
Oranges are very nutritious food which should be added to a healthy pregnancy diet. The following are the benefits of consuming oranges or drinking orange juice in pregnancy.
1. Boosts immunity:
Oranges are a rich source of water-soluble Vitamin C. That aids in building a robust immune system in both mother and child. Oranges also provide iron and zinc which are again crucial for reducing the allergies and strengthening immunity.
2. Aids in baby’s brain development:
Oranges contain ample Vitamin B6 and folic acid. That aids in brain development of the baby and prevents any possibility of congenital disabilities.
3. Prevents constipation:
The oranges are a rich source of soluble as well as insoluble cellulose and fibres which aid in regularising the bowel movement and thereby removing constipation. It also cures bloating and other problems in the stomach and removes any discomforts in the gut.
4. Controls blood pressure:
The potassium in the oranges relieves the expectant mother of hypertension and thereby regulates the blood pressure.
5. Keeps hydrated:
Oranges are 80% water, and therefore it aids in staying hydrated during pregnancy.
6. Purifies kidneys:
As the burden on the urogenital system increases, a pregnant woman is more prone to kidney-related ailments. Kidneys are vital during pregnancy as they filter any toxins from the body. Oranges clean the bladder and the kidneys and thereby reduces the possibilities of kidney ailments. It also acts as an effective remedy for kidney stones.
7. Strengthens the heart as well as respiratory system:
There is an increased load on the heart as well as the respiratory system during pregnancy. Oranges are a rich source of potassium which aids in rebuilding and strengthening the blood vessels. They also supply the vital minerals that aid in keeping the respiratory system strong.
8. Benefits the skin:
Oranges helps in tightening of the skin and also keeps the skin hydrated thereby preventing the acne.
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Side effects of orange juice during pregnancy:
Oranges are very healthy and nutritious and have some miraculous benefits during pregnancy. However, the following are some of the side effects of drinking lots of orange juice during pregnancy.
- Oranges are rich in citric acid. Consuming a high amount of citric acid leads to erosion of the teeth enamel as well as a sore throat.
- Oranges are extremely fibrous fruit. Excess consumption may lead to cramps in the abdomen as well as loose motion.
- The glucose content in the oranges may cause gestational diabetes if consumed excessively.
- Consumption of excessive Vitamin C can lead to preterm labor.
How to prepare orange juice?
Drinking orange juice during pregnancy is very beneficial, and a must-have during pregnancy. However, it’s only the fresh orange juice that is advisable to be consumed during pregnancy. The orange juice that is available in tetra packs are full of preservatives and not advisable during pregnancy. This is how you can prepare fresh orange juice.
- Take a few fresh oranges and wash them properly under flowing water.
- Cut them into the half.
- Squeeze the orange juice in a juicer.
- Avoid adding sugar to it if possible.
- Relish the fresh orange juice but beware not more than 2 glasses per day.
See More: is apple juice good for pregnancy
Orange is a very nutritious fruit. Its benefits during pregnancy are amazing. However, the key rule of pregnancy is moderation, and the same goes with consuming the orange juice also. Drinking a lot of orange juice during pregnancy can cause more harm than good, and hence you must not overeat.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1. How much orange juice should I consume during pregnancy?
Ans: Oranges are very nutritious, and they must have during pregnancy. However, eating oranges can cause more harm than good. Hence it is advisable that one must drink orange juice in moderation to reap its maximum benefits. According to doctors, a maximum of 2 glasses of orange juice can be consumed each day safely.
Q2. Can I drink orange juice during breastfeeding?
Ans: Orange juice is rich in calcium, and it aids in increasing the milk quantity as well as the quality. You can safely drink orange juice during breastfeeding as its good for both you as well as your newborn.
Q3. Is orange good during early pregnancy?
Ans: During early pregnancy folic acid is a must to protect the newborn from any neural defects. Orange is a rich natural source of folic acid and hence a must-have during pregnancy. You can safely consume oranges during pregnancy.
Q4. Which juice is good for a pregnant lady?
Ans: Apple juice and orange juice are 2 great juices for pregnancy. Both apple juice and orange juice are rich in various minerals and nutrients and therefore highly recommended during pregnancy.
