Benefits Of Eating Beetroot During Pregnancy

Beetroot, also known as red beet, table beet, garden beet, or simply beet, is highly beneficial for people of all age groups. It is packed with antioxidants and nutrients. Beetroot juice is considered as the best refreshing and energy boosting drink. However, when it comes to pregnancy, not all fruits and vegetables, even though well known for their nutritive value, can be safe. Where does the beetroot stand? Read on to find out.

Is Eating Beetroot Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes, it is healthy to eat beetroot during pregnancy, as it is rich in vitamins and minerals that is important during this significant phase. However, always keep in mind that when it comes to pregnancy, moderation is the key.

How Nutritious Is Beetroot?

With almost 88 percent of water, beetroot is rich in the following vitamins and minerals.

1. Beetroot is a rich source of Iron
2. It is an excellent source of essential nutrients, folate (vitamin B9), manganese, potassium, and vitamin C
3. It has a significant amount of fiber
4. Even though beetroot is high in carbohydrates, it is safe to eat without worrying about the sugar levels, as its glycemic load, GL (how much the food will raise a person's blood glucose level after eating it), is quite low

What Are The Benefits Of Eating Beetroot During Pregnancy?

Here are 10 benefits of eating beetroot during pregnancy.

1. Prevents anemia:

   Iron is significant for a woman’s health, especially if she’s pregnant. Iron is an important component of hemoglobin in the blood. During pregnancy blood volume increases significantly and so it is quite important for the hemoglobin level to increase subsequently. Hence increased iron intake is essential during pregnancy. And what other way then including beetroot in your diet. Being an excellent source of iron, beetroot consumed in any form helps in fighting iron deficiency and thus prevents anemia. Vitamin C present in the beetroot helps with the absorption of iron

2. Helps with digestion:

   Beetroot helps in easing digestion during pregnancy, as it is rich in fiber. Rich in fiber content, beetroot helps to bring down the likelihood of constipation, another common issue during pregnancy

3. Enhance the health of internal organs:

   Drinking beetroot juice influences the health of liver, gallbladder and kidney. It flushes the toxins accumulated in the internal organs. It purifies the blood, promoting healthy progression of the pregnancy

4. Improves fetal growth:

   The folic acid present in the beetroot helps with the healthy development of the fetus and formation of RBCs (red blood cells) in the mother's body. Intake of folic acid during the first trimester is significant for the development of the baby's spinal cord

5. Boosts immunity:

   Your immune system becomes weak during pregnancy. Beetroot is loaded with Vitamin C. Also, betanin, the pigment which gives beetroot its color, is a powerful antioxidant. Because of its strong antioxidant properties, and vitamin C level, regular intake of beetroot helps in boosting up the immunity of the expecting mother

6. Enhances bone health:

   Beetroot is a good source of silica and calcium. Regular intake of beetroot during pregnancy enhances the bone health and brings down the risk of osteoporosis later in your life as well

7. Maintains blood pressure:

   Regular intake of beetroot juice helps to bring down the chances of pregnancy-induced hypertension. This is because it is rich in inorganic nitrates, which increase the formation of nitric oxide that dilates the blood vessels

8. Controls blood sugar:

   Being a low-glycemic food, beetroot, even though sweet, will not result in the instant spike in the blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is an excellent choice if you have a sweet tooth. Regular intake of beetroot juice during pregnancy also helps to maintain the blood sugar level

9. Prevents pain and swelling:

   Swelling of the hands and feet during pregnancy is quite common. Beetroot contains betaine, a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Therefore, regular consumption of beetroot during pregnancy helps to prevent the joint pain and swelling

10. Increases metabolism and stamina:

    Packed with potassium, beetroot is extremely beneficial for regulating the metabolism during pregnancy by maintaining the electrolyte balance in the body. Similarly, beetroot is rich in carbohydrate, Vitamin A, Vitamin B, proteins, and soluble fiber. All these minerals and compounds offer strength and stamina through pregnancy

How To Consume Beetroot During Pregnancy?

• You can consume beetroot as juice, add in salads (boil it first and then add it to salads, grate it and then dry roast it to add it in the curd as well), or by making curries
• You can make tasty halwa, or shakes. You can grate and add beetroot to the dough and make paratha. Some expecting mothers also like to have beetroot chutney

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