Pistachios are the egg-shaped nuts that have a hardcover on the outer top and the fruit inside. Grown on the small shrubs in the tropical regions of Africa and Asia. Pista, as they are commonly known, are rich in many nutrition. And, it is highly recommended that you consume pistachio during pregnancy for its nutritional value. The following are the various amazing facts about pista.
Pistachios can be a great addition to your pregnancy diet. If you know how much to eat. Because these small food items are actually rich in proteins and other minerals. Including fibre that helps quite directly in the strengthening of your body. and, the direct growth and development of your baby.
Is it reasonable to eat pista during pregnancy?
Pistachios are rich in proteins, fibres, minerals, and various other nutrients and hence are highly recommended for consumption during pregnancy. However, as it goes for all the other products, the same follows for pista as well – moderation. As we all know anything consumed in excess during pregnancy may do more harm than good, and hence they must be consumed in moderation only to reap its maximum benefits.
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Nutritional value of pistachios during pregnancy:
The following are the nutrients in 100g of pistachios:
Nutrient Quantity
- Calories 560Kcal
- Carbohydrates 27.17g
- Protein 20.16g
- Fiber 10.6g
- Fat 45.32g
- Sugars 7.66g
- A Vitamin 516IU
- C Vitamin 5.6mg
- E Vitamin 2.86mg
- Folic Acid 51mcg
- Pyridoxine 1.7mg
- Niacin 1.3mg
- Riboflavin 0.16mg
- Thiamine 0.870mg
- Potassium 1025mg
- Sodium 1mg
- Calcium 105mg
- Iron 3.92mg
- Magnesium 121mg
- Zinc 2.2mg
- Phosphorous 490mg
Where g=grams, mg=milligrams, mcg=micrograms, IU=International Units
Benefits of Pistachio during pregnancy:
The maximum benefits of pista can be reaped during pregnancy only if they are consumed in the right quantity. The following are some of the benefits of eating pista during pregnancy:
1. Aids in fetal growth and development:
Pistachios are rich in proteins. Hence it helps in the development of tissues and muscles of the foetus.
2. Balances the lipid levels:
Pistachios have a high quantity of monosaturated fatty acids. They reduce the bad cholesterol and increases the good cholesterol and thereby balances the lipid levels.
3. Boosts immunity:
Pistas are rich in various vitamins. Such as A, E, C and antioxidants. That increase the immunity during pregnancy. And thereby makes you less prone to getting ill.
4. Prevents anaemia:
The high quantity of iron in pistachios. Help in the production of red blood cells and thus reduces the chances of getting anaemic during pregnancy.
5.Treats constipation:
The fibres in pista aids in a healthy gut movement. Thereby curing constipation which is a common complaint during pregnancy.
6. Anti-inflammatory:
The anti-inflammatory properties of pistachios. Help in fighting pain and swelling which is most common during pregnancy.
7. Healthy fetal brain:
Pista contains Omega-3 fatty acids. Which aid in healthy brain development of the baby.
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Side effects of pista during pregnancy:
Pistachios are good for pregnancy to provide they are eaten in moderation. Else they can have the following side-effects:
A. Increase in blood pressure:
Roasted pistachios have a large quantity of salt coated on it. Eating them in large amount can increase the blood pressure. Which is not at all a good sign for pregnancy.
B. Digestive problems:
Pista has fructans. When consumed in large quantity. It can cause possible digestive issues such as bloating, flatulence, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, etc.
C. Allergy:
Pistachios also falls in the category of nuts and contains anacardic acid. Which is known to cause allergy. Hence the possibility of getting an allergy after consuming pistachios cannot be ruled out.
How to take pista in the pregnancy diet:
- Roasted pista can be directly eaten during snack time.
- Pista tastes amazing with sweets and desserts and also give a beautiful garnishing.
- Dry fruit milkshake containing saffron, pista, cashews, almonds tastes fantastic and is very healthy too.
- Try making a Kesar pista kulfi at home and satisfy your sweet tooth.
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Eating pistachios during pregnancy is very good for health and has a lot of benefits in the pregnancy. However, you must always consume it in moderation, or you might get some allergic reaction. Consult your doctor if you get an allergy or to know the safe quantity for consumption during pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions And Answers:
Q1. Can I eat pista during pregnancy every day?
Ans: Eating a handful of pista every day during pregnancy is right for health during pregnancy. However one should avoid eating too much of salted pista as they may lead to a rise in the blood pressure. Besides excessive consumption of pistachios in pregnancy have a lot of side effects. So daily consumption but in moderation is ok during pregnancy.
Q2. Is pista safe during pregnancy?
Ans: Eating pistachio during pregnancy are safe provided; they are consumed in moderation. Too many pista during pregnancy has many side effects and will cause more harm than good. They have a lot of benefits also and must be a part of your pregnancy diet.
Q3. Can I eat too many pistachio nuts during pregnancy?
Ans: One of the fundamental rules of pregnancy in moderation. Anything in excess, howsoever beneficial it is, can do more harm than good and this stays good for pistachios as well. Eating too many pistachios can have the following adverse effects:
- Weight gain
- Increase in blood pressure
- Allergy
- Digestive issues
