Pregnancy is often described as a journey, which requires mindful choices about diet and nutrition. Among the different varieties of superfoods, ghee, the golden substance is considered a good-to-go option during gestation.
So, understanding ghee’s role in supporting health during pregnancy is vital for expecting mothers seeking to optimize their wellness for themselves and their babies. Look no further, this blog helps you be aware of the various benefits of ghee during pregnancy.
Is drinking ghee safe during pregnancy?
Yes, pregnant ladies can include ghee during their gestation period to promote better fetal health and development. Particularly, in India, ghee is often included in people’s diets and is very common to add ghee to roti, rice, and other foods simply to enhance the taste of the dish.
However, when it is the pregnancy phase, you need to consult a fertility doctor and get a personalized suggestion whether you can intake ghee during pregnancy or not. This is even more important if you’re conceived through IVF or any other ARTs.
Benefits of ghee during pregnancy
From managing cravings to promoting glowing skin, ghee provides plenty of advantages, so consuming it in moderate amounts can potentially improve your overall health and support for optimal pregnancy.
Supports fetal growth
When it comes to pregnancy, moms always prioritize their little ones growing inside the womb. Ghee satisfies their priorities as it can contribute to fetal growth and development.
It contains vitamins A and D that help in the development of fetal eyesight, skin, immune system, and strong teeth and bones. Ghee is also rich in vitamin K, which helps in blood clotting and prevents excessive bleeding during labour.
Helps with postpartum stress
Of course, new moms will be more stressed, but ghee can help them overcome it. Butyric acid is rich in ghee which can effectively reduce inflammation in the body and promote the growth of healthy gut microbiomes.
So, a healthy gut supports better digestion, nutrient absorption, and mental health. In addition, antioxidants rich in ghee can reduce oxidative stress which could cause depression and anxiety. As a result, consuming a sufficient amount of ghee can reduce stress and make you feel better during the gestation period and postpartum.
Promotes digestion
Butyrate content in ghee is pivotal for maintaining good gut health, which also helps in digesting fats. Consuming it in moderate amounts during gestation can alleviate issues like bloating and constipation. It is also an excellent source of medium-chain triglycerides, which help to regulate bowel movements and relieve constipation.
Keeps temptations on point
Pregnancy often brings about intense cravings due to hormonal changes and increased nutritional demands. Ghee is an excellent source of healthy fats, which help you feel full and satisfied for longer periods. This satiety effect reduces the likelihood of reaching for unhealthy snacks high in sugar or empty calories.
Moreover, ghee’s natural aroma and rich texture can satisfy taste preferences without leading to overindulgence. Its balanced fat content also supports steady blood sugar levels, reducing mood swings caused by glucose spikes and crashes.
Gives a flawless skin
Ghee is renowned for its skin-nourishing properties, making it a valuable addition to a pregnancy diet. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A and E, and antioxidants, ghee supports skin health by promoting hydration and elasticity from within.
During pregnancy, the skin undergoes significant stretching, especially around the abdomen, breasts, and thighs. Ghee helps maintain the skin’s moisture barrier, some believe that ghee can prevent stretch marks. However, there is no proven scientific evidence for this, so don’t blindly trust everything during your pregnancy period.
Boost metabolism
Ghee contains short- and medium-chain fatty acids like butyrate, which play a key role in improving gut health. Butyrate is known to stimulate the production of healthy gut bacteria and enhance intestinal function. By aiding digestion and nutrient absorption, ghee supports the body’s metabolism, ensuring the mother and baby receive the necessary nutrients for growth and development. This improvement in metabolism can also help alleviate fatigue and maintain energy levels throughout pregnancy.
Increases immunity
Ghee is packed with fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and antioxidants that play a critical role in boosting immunity. Vitamin A helps maintain the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes, the body’s first line of defence against pathogens. Vitamin D supports immune regulation, while vitamin E neutralizes free radicals, reducing oxidative stress.
The presence of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) in ghee also enhances immune function and has anti-inflammatory properties, providing further protection for both mother and baby. However, moderation is very important, make sure you intake required amounts of ghee in your diet.
Ease the labour
Some believe that ghee can help lubricate the birth canal and improve the elasticity of pelvic tissues, facilitating a smoother delivery. However, scientific evidence on this specific benefit is limited, and its use should be guided by a healthcare professional. While ghee may not directly influence the labor process, its overall nutritional benefits support maternal strength during delivery.
When does consuming ghee become a concern?
Consuming ghee in an excessive amount will be a huge concern that may result in severe health problems, particularly weight gain or obesity. Therefore, if you have any doubts regarding the amount of consumption or identify any potential changes in your body while consuming ghee, you can immediately consult your healthcare professional. Even the changes are good, you can consult them as their valuable advice and monitoring can help you suggest the right amount of ghee intake daily during pregnancy
Last few words
To sum up, the incorporation of ghee into a pregnant woman’s diet can offer significant health benefits, enhancing both physical and emotional well-being. Its rich nutrition supports digestive health, boosts immunity, and nourishes the developing fetus.
For pregnant women who want to improve their dietary choices, ghee can be a nutritious and flavorful option that also promotes a healthy pregnancy experience.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Yes, ghee contributes to weight gain when a woman consumes it in excessive amounts. Because it is high in calories and fat, eating ghee in high quantities can increase weight during pregnancy.
Consuming ghee in moderate amounts from the second trimester could be great for a pregnant lady. It’s because that is the time when a baby’s organ formation begins. So, ghee can support a baby’s growth and health.
Some people believe that consuming ghee in the third trimester can trigger contractions, helping to start labour. However, there is no scientific proof that ghee can induce labour.
Consuming ghee in excess amounts can cause potential side effects and commonly, it could increase the risk of weight gain and obesity. But, preferring a moderate amount of ghee can help in digestion and fetal development during pregnancy.
No, it is completely a huge myth that consuming ghee can prevent stretch marks. It’s because stretch marks happen due to rapid expansion of skin, weight gain, medications, and hormonal changes during pregnancy. Some sources state that massaging with ghee over the skin may reduce the stretch marks and enhance the shine and glow.
