Is eating eggplant during pregnancy? Many of us wonder if eating an eggplant is safe during pregnancy or not? This is probably one of the most put up questions by pregnant women. While on one side, some people recommend to completely avoid its consumption during pregnancy, whereas on the other side, some people say that it is considered to be absolutely safe for pregnant women.

Despite the arguments, anything that you consume in moderate amounts is unlikely to cause you or your baby any harm. Brinjal contains all the essential nutrients required by you or your baby during the period of pregnancy. But in order to avoid any adverse effects of the same, you have to ensure that you consume it in right quantities.

What is an eggplant? Many people call it brinjal or even aubergine, but what more do you know of it? well, eggplant is extensively grown for its fruit and is shaped like an egg, which is why it is given this name. It is purple in colour, looks glossy and is a rich source of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins and minerals. Because of its numerous health benefits and delicious taste, it is found in most of the kitchens of Asia.

 Listed below are some of the health benefits of an eggplant. Let us consider the following:

Health Benefits of Eating Eggplant During Pregnancy

Healthy development of growing fetus

Eggplant consists of essential nutrients that are vital for the development of the fetus, for instance vitamin C, niacin, B1, B2, B6, vitamin E and Vitamin A. In addition to this, some of the minerals like potassium, manganese, iron, copper are also beneficial in increasing the blood supply and maintaining electrolyte balance. A greater supply of blood will also help in the prevention of anaemia during pregnancy.

Beneficial for heart

Eggplant reduces the risk of bad (LDL) cholesterol in the blood which prevents the risk of any heart-related diseases. This is due to the presence of bioflavonoids and potassium in the eggplant which helps in minimizing the blood pressure during pregnancy.

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Prevention of digestive issues

The antioxidants present in an eggplant helps in protecting the moms-to-be and the foetus from varied diseases. This boosts the immune system of the mother and thus protects her against as little as any infections like cold or even flu.

Regulates blood sugar levels

Regulating the blood sugar levels at the time of pregnancy is extremely important because pregnant women are more prone to gestational diabetes. Brinjal helps to prevent any sort of fluctuations and controls the blood sugar levels.

Prevents constipation

Constipation is one of the common problems faced by pregnant women. This happens due to the hormonal changes that are responsible to slow down the intestinal movements. Whereas, Brinjal is a rich source of dietary fiber. This helps in smooth bowel movement and thus prevents constipation at the time of pregnancy.

Adverse Effects of Eggplant During Pregnancy

Just like the benefits served by the veggie, it also has many negative effects if consumed in inappropriate quantities. Let us consider some of these:

Risk of premature delivery

If eggplant is consumed in large and inappropriate quantities, it may lead to uterine contractions that may further cause premature delivery or even abortion.

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Miscarriage

The high amounts of phytohormones in eggplant possess menstruation inducing properties which can further cause miscarriage. Hence, you should make sure to consume it in adequate amounts.

High levels of acidity

High levels of acidity induced by an eggplant in pregnant women may cause them discomfort and anxiety. This is one of the reasons why some people recommend to completely its consumption during pregnancy.

Allergies

Although it is very rare, when pregnant women consume brinjal in excessively high quantities, they may suffer from allergies. However, there can also be other reasons behind such allergy experienced by pregnant women.

Taking both the positive as well as the negative aspects of consuming an eggplant or brinjal by a pregnant woman into consideration, we can conclude that although the veggie is not likely to cause any harm to the mom-to-be if consumed in right quantities, but in case the consumption of the veggie exceeds by excessive amounts, the effects may prove to be a lot detrimental not only for the mother but also for the baby.

Thereby, if you are one of the moms-to-be whose favourite veggie is brinjal, you must ensure to take it in appropriate quantities. Although, it is always best to avoid anything, including brinjal if you have had any history of complications associated with it. More importantly, pregnancy is a beautiful period for any mother, so you must seek your doctor’s advice before you make up your decision about anything.

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