Peaches are a low calorie fruit available in a variety of forms such as fresh, tinned, and dried peaches. They contain fairly high amounts of dietary fibers, vitamin C, and magnesium which has a positive impact during pregnancy on the developing fetus.
Highlights
- Peaches are beneficial to consume during pregnancy as they are rich in vitamins A, E, and other essential components.
- Peach fruit consumed during the first trimester boosts the nutrient levels to prepare the body for later pregnancy.
- Avoid consuming the fruit if you have any associated known allergies.
Is it safe to eat Peaches during Pregnancy?
Peaches are ideal to eat during pregnancy since they are high in nutrients. However, like with many foods, there are certain precautions to take, as excessive fruit consumption during pregnancy might cause problems. We have many Peach Benefits in Pregnancy, which we’ll discuss further down.
1. Low Calorie fruit
Peaches are a low calorie fruit that is safe to consume during pregnancy. One medium sized peach (147 g) has 50 calories.
- Consuming controlled calories during pregnancy prevents the risk of developing gestational diabetes.
- Low calorie fruits also assist in weight management during pregnancy which is beneficial for both the mother and the baby.
- Controlled body weight during pregnancy also prevents postpartum complications like diabetes and heart issues.
2. Rich in Potassium
Peaches are a good source of potassium, providing around 12% of the daily requirement. The required potassium amount ranges between 2,500 to 2,900 mg per day during pregnancy.
- Potassium is required by all body tissues and aids in the maintenance of normal blood pressure, thus preventing the risk of hypertension during pregnancy.
- During pregnancy, eating potassium-rich foods can help decrease any issues that may emerge from consuming too much sodium and its impact on blood pressure.
- The high potassium content of peaches also helps in dealing with muscle cramps, fatigue, and stress during pregnancy.
- Potassium also regulates muscle contractions which prevents pain and discomfort during pregnancy.
3. High Dietary Fiber content
Peaches are high in dietary fiber, with each large peach providing 14 percent of the daily fiber value.
- Fiber-rich foods are especially important to eat while pregnant since they can help prevent preeclampsia, constipation, and diabetes.
- Fiber can also aid to improve heart health by lowering cholesterol levels in the blood.
- When pregnant women with type 1 diabetes consume more fiber, they frequently require less insulin per day.
- High fiber aids in managing body weight as it imparts a sense of fullness and thus reduces the intake of heavy meals.
4. High Vitamin C content
A medium-sized peach provides 25% of your daily requirement of vitamin C.
- Vitamin C is crucial throughout pregnancy as some studies show that it lowers the risk of premature deliveries.
- Vitamin C is also linked with reduced chances of developing gestational diabetes and intrauterine growth retardation (a condition in which the fetus weighs less than average and can be fatal if not identified).
- It also aids the body’s metabolism of iron, which is a crucial mineral for health during pregnancy and fetal growth.
- Vitamin C is particularly important during the third trimester of pregnancy because the physiological changes that occur throughout pregnancy might cause low levels of this vitamin, which can lead to delivery-related issues.
- Peaches aid in making the body’s immune system strong due to their vitamin C content. This helps pregnant women fight infections. Strong immunity also provides benefits to the developing fetus.
5. Natural detoxifying effects
Peaches are rich in essential vitamins and nutrients like vitamin A, Vitamin C, and E which provides a natural detoxifying effect to the body. This is particularly beneficial during pregnancy.
- These vitamins help in removing the toxins from the body thus aiding the functioning of kidneys and liver.
- Peach contains a high water content which provides diuretic effect to the body. This prevents fluid retention and associated complications during pregnancy.
- The detoxification effect of this fruit increases the blood flow to the skin. This prevents acne and breakouts due to hormonal changes during pregnancy.
Peach Safety When Pregnant
If you’re going to eat fresh peaches, make sure you wash them beforehand. Washing helps to remove pathogens like E. coli, which can be found in the soil or on the surface of fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s also a good idea to avoid pre-cut or pre-prepared fruit while pregnant, as this poses a higher risk of bacterial contamination.
The only stipulation for eating peaches while pregnant is that you don’t consume too many. According to one study, consuming too much sweet fruit during the second trimester of pregnancy is linked to an increased risk of gestational diabetes.
Also Read 8 Phool Makhana Benefits In Pregnancy
Are Canned Peaches OK When Pregnant?
Canned fruits are usually avoided during pregnancy as they contain additional sugar or syrup, which can increase the risk of gestational diabetes.
- If possible, go for canned peaches without added sugar on the label.
- Canned foods also pose a danger of exposing you to bisphenol A, a chemical used to prevent corrosion on the inside of food cans. Because of probable disturbances to the endocrine system, this substance can be harmful to your health.
- Any food that has been home-canned must have been prepared in accordance with the USDA’s safe home canning guidelines. You may be at risk of botulism if you consume peaches that have been canned in someone’s home kitchen.
Consult with the best doctor if you have any concerns about eating peaches or other fruits during pregnancy,
Can Pregnant Women Eat Dried Peaches?
Dried peaches are a safe choice during pregnancy, but keep in mind that they are high in sugar.
- Dried peaches can be found on their own or in pre-made trail mixes, fruit and nut bars, cereals, and salad toppings. Sulfur dioxide is a harmless preservative that is often used to preserve dried fruit.
- Some people, however, are allergic to sulfur dioxide and can develop asthma symptoms if they are exposed to it.
- Before buying dried fruits, read the label properly to avoid any hypersensitivities.
Consult with the best gynecologist to discuss the recommended pregnancy safety measure.
Final Notes
Peaches offer many health benefits to pregnant women. Not only do they provide necessary vitamins and minerals, but they may also help prevent some common problems during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, make sure to add peaches to your diet. You can enjoy them fresh, in smoothies or yogurt, or even baked into pies or cobblers. With all these delicious options available, there’s no excuse not to get your daily dose of peach goodness!
FAQs
1. Can a peach cause a miscarriage?
Eating excessive amounts of peaches during pregnancy might cause the body to overheat resulting in internal bleeding and miscarriage.
2. Why are you craving peaches during pregnancy?
Cravings might sometimes suggest a vitamin deficiency in your pregnancy diet. Peach craving may indicate dehydration, low blood sugar levels, or low beta-carotene molecules.
3. Can you eat peach skin?
Peach skin is healthy and safe to eat. It has more fiber and antioxidants than peach flesh alone. As a result, eating a whole peach with the peel may offer the most health benefits.