We all know banana is a wholesome food. But, did you know that bananas are also a potent source of nutrients during pregnancy. Read on to know the many health benefits of consuming bananas throughout your pregnancy. During pregnancy various kinds of food items are recommended, which are beneficial for the mother as well as for the growing fetus. The main aim of such foods is to provide the required nutrition for both. Fruits form an integral part of such foods items. However, all fruits are not suitable during pregnancy. One fruit that is excellent for pregnant women is banana. Bananas not only taste great but are filled with excellent health benefits.

11 Must Know Health Benefits of Banana During Pregnancy

Mentioned below are 11 excellent health benefits of banana during pregnancy:

Boosts haemoglobin

Majority of pregnant women suffer from anemia. Hemoglobin levels are usually quite low in pregnant women. Consuming banana helps in boosting the hemoglobin levels considerably. There is increase in red blood cells in the blood and hence levels of hemoglobin are boosted. This is important because lack of hemoglobin can cause various kinds of complications in pregnancy.

Great source of folic acid

We all know the importance of folic acid, particularly for pregnant women. Folic acid has an important role in brain, spinal cord and nerve development in the growing fetus. Folic acid deficiency can lead to premature delivery and birth defects. Banana is a great source for overcoming folic acid deficiency.

Excellent source of vitamin B6

The greatest benefit of vitamin B6 is that it is soluble in water. This vitamin plays a pivotal role in developing the cells in the central nervous system in the growing fetus. Morning sickness can also be combated to a great extent with the right dose of vitamin B6. Pregnant women need 1.9 mg of vitamin B6; one medium banana contains about 4mg of vitamin B6.

Read more: Vitamin B12 During Pregnancy

Great source of calcium

Calcium is excellent for development of the skeletal system and bones. 10 mg of natural calcium is present in every 200 grams of banana. This mineral is also important for muscle development in the fetus in the womb.

Helps in boosting digestion

Indigestion and heartburns are quite common during pregnancy and many women face the same. This puts pressure on the fetal growth and development. Acid secretion is minimized and suppressed with the help of banana as it contains a natural antacid. Moreover, bananas are a rich source of pectin, which helps in normalizing the process of digestion.

Helps in dealing with constipation problems

Constipation is becoming a common problem in many pregnancies nowadays. Abdominal bloating is controlled and smooth bowel movement is ensured with the eating of bananas. Banana is rich in fiber content and hence promotes bowel movements. Each banana contains almost 6 grams of fiber.

Read more: Remedies for Constipation During Pregnancy

Minimizes nausea and vomiting

Morning sickness is common in women with feelings of nausea and vomiting. This is prominent in the initial trimester. Consuming bananas at this time of pregnancy helps in minimizing morning sickness considerably and combats nausea and vomiting successfully.

Rich source of antioxidants

Antioxidants are extremely important for proper functioning of the human body. They help in fighting free radical damage in the body and provides protection from cellular damage. Antioxidants play an important role in improving the immune system of the fetus. Bananas are excellent sources of antioxidants and are great for the mother and the fetus.

Maintains levels of blood sugar and cholesterol

During pregnancy, the levels of cholesterol and blood sugar might get disturbed in many women. In fact, many women develop diabetes during the pregnancy period. Bananas help excellently in keeping these levels under control. The fruit is also effective in women with low levels of blood sugar.

Helps in increasing energy in pregnant women

Tiredness and fatigue is common in pregnant women. For quick energy, pregnant women can take a banana and get instant results. The combination of milk and bananas proves to be a great one. Three natural sugars are found in banana namely fructose, glucose and sucrose.

Helps in influencing breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is benefited greatly with bananas. In case there are any missing minerals, they are replenished with the help of the banana. The fruit is readily available and is affordable as well to be included in the daily diet of pregnant women.

After knowing so many benefits of banana for pregnant women, there is no reason why you should not include the same in the diet.