Pregnancy is a special phase in every woman’s life. During these nine months, what you eat plays a crucial role in your baby’s growth and your overall well-being. While most fruits are considered safe, one of them often sparks curiosity – the custard apple. If you are also wondering about the benefits and risks of consuming custard apple during pregnancy, this blog is for you. Read on!
What is a Custard Apple?
It is a tropical fruit with creamy flesh and green scaly skin. It is also known as Sitaphal or Sharifa in India. The fruit’s pulp is soft and naturally sweet. It is also rich in nutrients like Vitamin C, Magnesium, Phosphorus, and Calcium. This makes it a favourite among expectant mothers craving something delicious and nutritious.
Nutritional Value of Custard Apple
Custard apple is a powerhouse of nutrients essential for pregnancy. Here is what 100 grams of custard apple typically contains:
- Calories: 101 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25.2 g
- Protein: 1.7 g
- Fibre: 2.4 g
- Calcium: 30 mg
- Iron: 0.71 mg
- Magnesium: 18 mg
- Phosphorus: 21 mg
- Potassium: 382 mg
- Sodium: 4 mg
- Vitamin C: 19.2 mg
- Vitamin A: 33 IU
- Vitamin B6: 0.2 mg
These nutrients make custard apple a nutrient-rich snack. Let us learn more about the benefits of custard apple for pregnant women below.
6 Benefits of Custard Apple During Pregnancy
Here are the top benefits of custard apple for pregnant women you should know about:
- Strengthens Immunity
Pregnant women are more susceptible to infections due to hormonal and immune changes.
Custard apple is rich in Vitamin C, which helps with this. It helps boost the immune system to keep infections like common colds and flu at bay.
- Promotes Fetal Development
Custard apple contains vitamin A, which plays an important role in a baby’s growth during pregnancy. Research has shown that when pregnant women don’t get enough Vitamin A, their babies are more likely to be born too early, have low birth weight, or grow more slowly inside the womb. Vitamin A may also help the baby’s lungs develop properly. In animals like rats and farm animals, when the mother lacks Vitamin A, the babies are smaller overall, and their organs don’t grow as well.
- Relieves Constipation
Nearly 11-38% of pregnant women experience constipation during pregnancy. Custard apple contains fibre, which may help you with this issue. It adds bulk to the stool, which improves bowel movement. This reduces discomfort and promotes a healthy digestive system.
- Reduces Fatigue
Custard apple is rich in carbohydrates and natural sugars. These provide energy to the body to prevent fatigue. According to the research published in the Medical Clinics of North America, carbohydrates should comprise 45-64% of a pregnant woman’s daily calories. This is because the body converts carbohydrates into glucose, the main energy source for the placenta and fetus.
- Supports Bone Health
Custard apple contains both calcium and magnesium. These are vital for strengthening bones for both the mother and the baby. They may also help prevent leg cramps. Research also suggests that adequate calcium and magnesium intake may prevent the risk of hypertension disorders during pregnancy.
- Maintains Healthy Skin and Hair
Thanks to Vitamin A and antioxidants like vitamin C, custard apple helps maintain the mother’s skin elasticity and supports healthy hair. The antioxidants also help fight free radicals to prevent oxidative stress that can damage skin cells.
3 Risks of Consuming Custard Apple During Pregnancy
Having custard apple during pregnancy is generally safe. However, sometimes it may pose the following risks:
- High Sugar Content
Custard apple has natural sugars that may spike blood sugar levels if eaten in large amounts. Women with gestational diabetes should either avoid it in excess or consult their doctor before including it in their diet.
- Excessive Weight Gain
Custard apple, in moderation, does not add too many calories to your diet. However, eating it in excess, especially with other calorie-rich foods, may lead to unnecessary weight gain during pregnancy.
- Allergies
Though rare, some people may be allergic to custard apple. If you are consuming the fruit for the first time and notice any unusual symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.
How to Eat Custard Apple During Pregnancy?
Here are some of the best ways to add custard apple to your diet during pregnancy:
- Simply cut and enjoy it as a snack.
- Blend it with other fruits and plant-based milks to make a smoothie.
- Use it as a natural sweetener in puddings or milkshakes.
- Mix it with other seasonal fruits to make a fruit salad.
Final Thoughts
The benefits of eating custard apples during pregnancy are plenty. The nutrient-rich fruit may help boost immunity, support fetal development, and improve digestion. However, moderation is key, especially if you are at risk of gestational diabetes or excessive weight gain.
And while you are taking care of your pregnancy nutrition, do not forget to think ahead for your baby’s future health. Take it a step further by considering stem cell banking, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that allows you to preserve your newborn’s stem cells for potential life-saving treatments in the future.