Can We Eat Jamun In Pregnancy

Pregnancy is the time when expectant mothers crave different foods. This happens because of the physiological changes that her body undergoes during pregnancy including hormonal shifts. Even though expectant mothers crave different foods, maintaining a well-balanced diet plays a crucial role in fulfilling the nutritional needs of the growing fetus.

When it comes to pregnancy, eating a variety of nutritious foods is essential. But it’s equally important to understand their benefits before adding them to your diet. One such unique fruit is Jamun.

In this blog, we’ll clear up any doubts and explore the nutritional value of Jamun (Java Plum) during pregnancy.

Can we eat Jamun in pregnancy?

Many expectant mothers often wonder, Can we eat Jamun in pregnancy? Yes, you can eat jamun fruit during pregnancy, but in moderation. This nutrient-rich fruit is packed with antioxidants that support your baby’s growth and development. However, it's best to consult your doctor before adding jamun to your pregnancy diet.

However, moderation is key, eating 5-7 Jamuns per day is generally safe, while excessive intake might lead to acidity or stomach discomfort.

Health Benefits of Consuming Jamun in Pregnancy

Jamun is a small fruit that grows specifically in different parts of Asia. It has a dark purple-coloured skin and pinkish flesh when ripened. The fruit is rich in nutrients that can be consumed by everyone.

Listed below are some of the health benefits specifically for expectant mothers when consuming java plum or jamun.

Rich In Antioxidants

Jamun is a powerhouse of antioxidants including vitamin C, A, iron, calcium, potassium, polyphenols, and anthocyanins. These nutrients can help expectant mothers fight against stress, inflammation, and cell damage. They are also helpful in strengthening your bones and immune system. In addition, the nutrients and antioxidants present in the jamun can help expectant mothers fight against various chronic diseases.

Manages Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a common medical condition found in many pregnant women. However, jamun fruit has the ability to regulate blood sugar levels because of the presence of a low glycemic index (GI). The compound helps to control the blood sugar levels in the blood as they are released gradually into the bloodstream.

Supports Digestive Health

Many pregnant women experience digestive issues including diarrhoea, indigestion, and constipation. Including java plums in your diet can help you resolve the issue as they are rich in fibre content. This helps to promote the health of the digestive system.

Enhances Immunity

Consuming jamun in pregnancy can help to strengthen your immune system as they are rich in vitamin C and iron nutrients. The fruit ensures to increase in your RBC count (red blood corpuscles), thus preventing you from iron deficiency and anaemia. It also helps to ensure fighting against infections, and quick healing from wounds.

Promotes Healthy Blood Circulation

During pregnancy, an expectant mother’s body requires an increased volume of blood by almost 25 - 50%. The increase in blood volume is helpful to support the placenta and growing fetus by supplying sufficient oxygen and nutrients. Jamun fruit is a rich source of iron nutrients that plays a significant role in promoting sufficient and healthy blood circulation in pregnant women. In addition, they help in reducing fatigue.

Reduces the Risk of High Blood Pressure

Another significant benefit of consuming jamun is that they are helping in reducing the risk of high blood pressure. This is because the fruit is a rich source of potassium and antioxidants. In addition, the consumption of jamun helps in promoting the extra energy, which is required by many expectant mothers.

Promotes Hydration

It is essential for the expectant mothers to stay hydrated for the overall health. The jamun fruit has a rich source of water content, which helps in maintaining the fluid balance in the body. In addition, this helps in promoting the proper functioning of nerves and muscles.

Improves Growing Baby’s Vision

As you know vitamin A plays a crucial role in improving the vision. Jamun fruit happens to contain a rich source of vitamin A. When consumed by the pregnant woman, it potentially improves the growing baby’s vision.

Maintains Oral Health

Studies shows that jamun fruits has the rich source of antibacterial properties. This is helpful in preventing pregnant women from dental issues and maintaining oral health. The consumption of jamun fruit is specifically recommended for expectant mothers who experience morning sickness.

Promotes Cardiovascular Health

When it comes to heart health, jamun fruit, which is rich in antioxidants and potassium can help in reducing inflammation, regulate blood pressure, and fight against oxidative stress. This in turn reduces the risk of developing heart attacks.

Prevents Premature Delivery

Experts have identified that the consumption of jamun fruit by expectant mothers can be beneficial in preventing premature deliveries. Because of the fruit’s rich source of magnesium, it ensures in complete growth and development of the fetus.

Nutritional Value and Calories of Jamun

To the women who doubt “is jamun good for pregnancy”, below is the list of nutritional values and calories that jamun contains per 100 grams.

Things to Consider Before Consuming Jamun in Pregnancy

Even though jamun fruit has numerous health benefits, there are a few things that need to be considered before consuming it during pregnancy. They are:

• It is not recommended to consume jamun fruits on an empty stomach. Since the sourness of the jamun fruit can lead to the development of certain health issues. The issues may include stomach pain, digestive issues, and acidity.
• It is not recommended to consume jamun fruits immediately after drinking milk. Since the acids present in jamun fruits can react with the milk and cause digestive issues such as acidity or an upset stomach.
• It is not recommended to consume jamun fruits excessively if you have gestational diabetes. Since it can lead to the development of a medical condition called hypoglycemia. In addition, it can also lead to blood clot formation.
• It is not recommended to consume jamun fruits excessively. Excessive intake may result in kidney stone issues, stomach issues, and fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
• It is recommended to consume jamun fruits only after washing them thoroughly. This helps in eliminating any potential pesticides and contaminants.

Potential Risks of Consuming Jamun Fruit During Pregnancy

Following are some of the potential risks of jamun fruits during pregnancy when consumed excessively:

Blood Sugar Fluctuations

The presence of a low glycemic index (GI) in jamun fruits helps to control the sugar levels in the blood. If a pregnant woman with existing gestational diabetes consumes excessive amounts of jamun fruits, it may lead to a condition called hypoglycemia. Hence, it is suggested to monitor the sugar levels in your blood regularly if you are including jamuns in your diet.

Allergic Reactions

Certain compounds in jamun fruits can contribute to the development of allergies in some women. Allergies may include itching, swelling, or skin rashes. If you go through such symptoms, consulting your physician immediately is highly recommended.

Digestive Issues

It is common for pregnant women to experience digestive issues. However, the excessive consumption of jamun fruits can contribute to the development of even more stomach issues. The issues may include bloating and diarrhoea, even though the fruit is rich in fibre.

Interference With Medications

Women with gestational diabetes should consult a physician before including jamun fruits in their diet. Since the fruit’s ability to lower blood sugar levels could interact with diabetes medications, this can result in a condition called hypoglycemia.

Overconsumption of Antioxidants

While jamun fruits are rich in antioxidants, too much consumption can result in an imbalance. The imbalance may include kidney complications, allergic reactions, and digestive issues.

Calcium Absorption Interference

As we know, calcium plays a crucial role in promoting a healthy pregnancy. However, jamun fruits are rich in oxalates, which can disturb calcium absorption in pregnant women if consumed excessively.

Summary

Including jamun fruit in your diet can be beneficial in numerous ways. However, it is always suggested to consult your reputed physician before consuming them. Specifically, if you have any pre-existing health issues, consulting your physician is the most appropriate way.