Eating right during pregnancy is very important for the safety of both mother and child. There are a lot of foods which are otherwise healthy. But may be dangerous if consumed in excess during pregnancy. One of the renowned and tasty seasonal fruit is litchi. These are white jelly-like sweet and sour fruit inside a rough red jacket. Litchis have been rumoured to be unsuitable during pregnancy. Let us analyse the benefits and side effects of litchis. To decide whether consuming litchi during pregnancy is safe or not.
Litchi is an oval shaped fruit that is pinkish on the outside. The inside of the fruit it is a transparent flesh that has an inedible seed. The fruit is also known as lychee and is grown in the tropical and sub-tropical regions and belongs to the soap berry family. Litchi is a juicy fruit that is soft on the teeth, with a very short-shelf life. Litchi is usually dried and sometimes canned for a longer shelf life.
Nutritional value of litchi during pregnancy:
The following are the nutrients received from eating 100g of litchi:
Nutrient Quantity
- Water 81.76g
- Calories 66Kcal
- Carbohydrates 16.53g
- Protein 0.83g
- Fibre 1.3g
- Fat 0.44g
- Sugars 15.23g
- C Vitamin 71.5mg
- E Vitamin 0.07mg
- Folic Acid 14mcg
- Niacin 0.603mg
- Riboflavin 0.065mg
- Thiamin 0.011mg
- Potassium 171mg
- Sodium 1mg
- Calcium 5mg
- Iron 0.31mg
- Magnesium 10mg
- Zinc 0.07mg
- Phosphorous 31mg
Where g= grams, mg=milligrams, mcg=micrograms, IU=International Units
See More: Blackberries during pregnancy
Benefits of eating Litchi during Pregnancy:
A tropical fruit, litchi is the favourite of many. The distinctive flavour, fleshy pulp and sweet fragrance. Are what make it desirable for all, especially during pregnancy. Some expectant mothers questions. Can I eat litchi during pregnancy and refrain from eating. From avoiding any harm to their baby. Eating litchi during pregnancy is safe provided you must eat in moderation. Read on to learn more about the benefits of litchi during pregnancy.
1. Improves The Immune System of Body:
Litchi is the warehouse of Vitamin C that helps to boost immunity. Normal functioning of the immune system is mostly dependent on this nutrient. Besides, Vitamin C also helps the body to fight infections like cough, cold and flu. So, next time when you catch a common cold, try eating litchis to fight disease instead of taking other medications.
2. Aids Blood Circulation:
Vitamin C present in abundance in litchi. Also aids absorption of iron in the body. Iron is an essential constituent to maintain optimum blood haemoglobin levels. Which in turn is necessary for blood circulation. Hence it is rightly stated that eating litchi during pregnancy regulates blood circulation. Eating litchi in pregnancy is not a bad idea after all.
3. Maintains Fluid Balance:
Litchi is also an excellent source of potassium. That helps to maintain the electrolyte balance in the body. That is, healthy fluids and sodium levels. Moreover eating litchi also keeps a check on the blood pressure. That in turn reduces the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
4. Prevents Constipation:
Irregular bowel movement and constipation is a widespread problem in most of the pregnancy cases. Relieving constipation is one of the superb benefits of litchi fruit during pregnancy. litchi has an extremely high content of water and fibres. That help to ease bowel movements and also aids digestion.
5. Good For Skin:
Yes, eating litchi is also good for your skin during pregnancy. The antioxidants in litchi help to fight the free radicals, thereby providing a smooth and youthful feel to the skin.
6. Energy booster:
Litchis are an excellent source of potassium which boosts the energy level. Besides eliminating the muscle cramps and reducing fatigue.
7. Rich in Vitamin C:
Vitamin C plays a vital role in producing serotonin in the body. It aids in maintaining healthy bones and teeth and also helps in iron absorption in the blood.
8. Anti-inflammatory benefits:
Litchi possesses anti-inflammatory properties. That support in speedy recovery from wounds and also prevents injuries.
See More: Grapefruit in pregnancy
Side effects of litchis during pregnancy:
The actual answer to the question is litchi good for pregnancy, is yes. No direct harm is caused to your baby by eating litchi; however, there can be some side-effects when eaten in excessive amounts.
A. Increase in internal heat:
Internal heat can be dangerous for the baby and litchis are known to generate a lot of internal heat. which might lead to unwanted complications during pregnancy.
B. Gestational Diabetes:
Litchi has high sugar content. So eating beyond limits can increase the blood sugar level and may lead to gestational diabetes.
C. Haemorrhage:
Consuming litchi excessively during pregnancy. Can result in haemorrhage and there is also an increased risk of contracting infections.
D. Stillbirth:
It has been found that in some rare cases, excessive consumption of litchi can result in stillbirth.
How to consume litchi during pregnancy?
There are numerous ways in which one can consume litchi during pregnancy. Here are some of them:
- Litchi is a very juicy and tasty fruit and hence can be consumed directly just by removing the outside cover.
- Litchi milkshake is also very tasty and healthy for consumption.
- Add litchi to yoghurt to make flavoured yoghurt.
- Make fresh juice of litchi or mix it with other fruits to make a mocktail.
- Add it to dessert.
- See More: Lentils when pregnant
Now we know that eating litchi benefits in pregnancy. But consume in moderation or else you might fall prey to some nasty complication in the pregnancy. And even if you are not pregnant enjoy eating. Litchi as it is not only juicy and tasty but also very beneficial in pregnancy and otherwise.
Frequently Asked Questions And Answers:
Q1. Is eating litchi in pregnancy safe or not?
Ans: Eating litchi during pregnancy is safe provided it is consumed in extreme moderation. They are a brilliant source of Vitamin C. And, are a rich source of antioxidants and potassium. Which is beneficial for pregnancy. However excess of litchi consumption may cause your blood pressure. To rise to dangerous levels and cause internal bleeding and haemorrhage. And, thereby making you deliver still a baby. Hence you should be extremely careful. While consuming litchi during pregnancy and it should undoubtedly be an occasional treat only.
Q2. How many litchis can a pregnant woman eat each day?
Ans: Litchi if eaten in moderation has a lot of benefits. Eating 8-10 litchis a day can be considered a safe quantity. It is, however, better to consult your doctor for the safe quantity. If you cannot resist them and want to eat them on a daily basis.
Q3. Can I have litchi juice when pregnant?
Ans: Litchi is nutritionally rich for consumption during pregnancy. However over consuming the same can be dangerous for the pregnancy. Litchi juice is safe for consumption during pregnancy. Provided the same is not consumed daily. A glass of litchi juice once in a while is absolutely safe during pregnancy.
