Maintaining a balanced diet during pregnancy is essential to ensure the health of both mother and baby.
While some foods should be avoided because they are not doing well, others are better suited. One is avocado, rich in good fats like Omega 3, 6, and 9, which has several other benefits.
According to the nutritionologist Cristiane Braga Kanashiro, from Clínica Due, the fruit can be consumed pure or used in the preparation of salty or sweet foods, such as ice cream and vitamins.
She further states that in addition to the specific benefits of avocado for pregnant women, there are also several general benefits. That's why anyone can consume it. See some:
1. Improves digestion
The nutritionist explains that, because it is rich in fiber, particularly pectin, avocado helps in the proper functioning of gastrointestinal transit and prevents constipation. "If the bowel does not work well, the pregnant woman is at increased risk of hemorrhoid disease," he explains.
Read also: Mother's feeding while breastfeeding
2. Guarantees satiety
This factor makes it indicated to circumvent exaggerated hunger, because by increasing the feeling of satiety, it makes you eat less. Progesterone increases the feeling of hunger, often causing the pregnant woman to eat more than she should. However, excessive weight gain during pregnancy can lead to problems for the baby at risk of gestational diabetes. So this balance when eating is important ?, he says.
3. Lowers bad cholesterol
Rich in "good" fats such as omega 3, 6 and 9, and oleic acid, avocado lowers LDL. LDL-cholesterol is the bad fat that deposits in the arteries and can form plaque. So having it in low concentrations is good for protecting the heart and vessels ?, says the nutritionist.
4. Boosts Immunity
"The fruit has B vitamins, especially B6, as well as vitamins E and C. All of them favor the improvement of immunity," explains the professional.
5. Makes the baby smarter
Intake of omega-type fats by the mother during pregnancy increases the babies' cognitive function and can lead to a smarter baby. "There are recent studies that prove the increased IQ of babies associated with maternal intake of these omegas," says Cristiane.
6. Helps you sleep better
Eating avocado before bed is speculated to stimulate melatonin production, but there is no scientific evidence yet. "Sleeping well is important because during sleep several hormones are produced, as well as brain restoration," he explains.
Read also: How to get a good night sleep during pregnancy
The nutritionist says that avocado can be eaten anyway and anytime. "A small portion before bed favors the synthesis of good hormones," he says.
But despite all these benefits, consumption should not be overstated. The maximum daily recommendation is 100 grams because, due to the large amount of fat, there is a risk of increased body weight.
6 Benefits of Eating Avocado During Pregnancy (April 2024)
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