Eating Oats during Pregnancy is one of the well-known healthy foods for Women and everyone and the question is whether it is equally healthy for pregnant women? The answer is yes, it is healthy for women during pregnancy.
Nutritional Benefits of Oats During Pregnancy
Oats are one of the top 10 recommended foods during pregnancy. Its provide high energy, complex carbohydrates and keeps you away from indigestion issues as it has high fiber content. it is loaded with minerals like potassium, iron and other nutrients like selenium, phosphorous, calcium, vitamin E and vitamin B1. They also provide a good source of dietary fiber, which helps regulate digestion and prevents constipation Oats play a key role in providing would-be mother’s body with the adequate folate (folic acid).
Why add Oats to your pregnancy diet?
- Energy Boost: Half cup of oats contains around 50 grams of carbohydrate and 300 calories. This is enough to give a boost of energy and keep you active through the day.
- Digestive Health: Oats are packed with complex carbohydrates that aid in digestion and keep sugar levels in control.
- dietary fiber. It is rich in dietary fiber and thereby, prevents constipation, which is commonly observed in expecting women.
- Rich in Minerals: Oats are rich in minerals that improve bone health and ensure proper fetal growth.
- Vitamin Benefits: Oats have vitamin B1 and Vitamin E that helps in breaking down of fat molecules and protein and keeps mucus membranes in good health. It also detoxifies the body from unwanted toxins and bring healthy glow.
- Oats are rich in folic acid. folic acid helps in preventing a few genetic disorders in your unborn baby.
- Prevents Anemia: Oats are full of iron. Women who eat oats on daily basis are safe from conditions like anemia.
Potential Risks and Considerations
While oats are generally safe, pregnant women with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity should opt for certified gluten-free oats. Also, it’s crucial to consume oats in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Ways to add Oats to your pregnancy diet:
- Oat flour: You can replace oat flour with oat cookies
- Oatmeal: Add oats to a bowl of sweetened warm milk along with nuts and sliced fruits.
- Savory Oats: If you prefer low-sugar diet, you can spice up your oat recipe. Add vegetables and spices to your bowl of cooked oats like cumin and coriander.
Closing Thoughts
Eating right during pregnancy can be difficult, but if we make small healthy changes in our diet then nutrition is not compromised at all for you and the little one inside you. Incorporating oats in your diet for breakfast is one of the right healthy choices you can make in your pregnancy. This is a very versatile cereal and there are various ways to prepare it so that it suits your palate.
For personalized advice, consult your healthcare provider to tailor your diet to your specific needs during pregnancy. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at [email protected].
Reference: American Pregnancy Association