Plum in Pregnancy: Benefits, Risks & Side Effects

Pregnancy is a beautiful and transformative time in a woman's life, but it can also be a time of uncertainty and apprehension. As an expectant mother, you want to ensure that you are doing everything you can to provide the best possible environment for your growing baby. One food that has gained attention for its potential benefits is plum in pregnancy. This sweet and juicy fruit is packed with vitamins and minerals, but what are its risks and side effects?

In this article, we will explore the benefits, risks, and side effects of consuming plums during pregnancy, so that you can make informed decisions about your diet and the health of your baby.

What are plums?

Plum is a member of the same family as the peach, the nectarine, and the apricot. However, plums have a wider variety of cultivars than their stone-fruit relatives. They come in many shapes and sizes, with skin colours like red, purple, green, yellow, and orange and flesh colours like pink, yellow, and orange. There are numerous benefits of plums in pregnancy.

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Can you eat plums during pregnancy?

Yes, you can eat plum in pregnancy. Plums are a safe and nutritious addition to a well-balanced pregnancy diet. They are rich in various essential nutrients like potassium, phosphorus, vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. Pregnant women should aim to consume five to seven servings of fresh fruits daily, with two plums considered one serving.

However, excessive consumption may aggravate blood sugar issues, and women who are prone to kidney stones should avoid them. Pregnant women should eat fresh plums instead of dried ones for better nutrient content. It is best to avoid consuming plums if one is on medication that may interact with them.

Benefits of plums in pregnancy

There are several plum fruit benefits during pregnancy including benefits of plums during pregnancy first trimester:

1. Helps fight anaemia

Most pregnant women experience some form of anaemia, but iron deficiency anaemia is more common. Eating iron-rich meals like plum during pregnancy can help stave off this illness. Plums are beneficial to eat during pregnancy because they contain iron, which can produce new blood cells. Eat them regularly to ward off anaemia.

2. Helps with constipation

Plums are great for your digestive health because of the high fibre content they contain. This fruit has been shown to have a laxative effect, easing the symptoms of constipation by encouraging the smooth passage of stool through the digestive system.

3. Prevents preterm labor

Plums are rich in magnesium and because magnesium aids in the relaxing of cervical muscles, eating plum in pregnancy may reduce the likelihood of premature contractions and delivery.

4. Strengthens the bones

Vitamin A, which is abundant in plums, has been shown to promote healthy bone growth and development. Plus, plums have the minerals and vitamins necessary for strong bones, including potassium, vitamin K, calcium, and phosphorus.

5. Reduces anxiety and fatigue

Pregnancy-related stress and exhaustion are common concerns. Plums include vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that work together to support various biological processes and increase energy, which can mitigate negative side effects.

How many plums can you eat during pregnancy?

A pregnant woman can safely consume between 150 to 200 gms of fresh plum during pregnancy every day i.e. 2 to 3 plums. You should eat fresh plums exclusively, not dried ones, and in moderation. Plums are tasty and healthy but eating too many of them at once can cause some unpleasant effects.

Risk factors of eating plum in pregnancy

Eating plums during pregnancy can have risks, especially for women who have or had kidney stones, due to the oxalate content in plums. It is advised that such women avoid eating plums during pregnancy. Additionally, swallowing the pit of a plum can cause injury or choking, so it's important to remove it before consuming the fruit.

However, plums can be a good source of nutrients such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, vitamins A and C, and can provide various benefits during pregnancy when consumed in moderation.

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Potential side effects of plums during pregnancy

Actually, there are no known side effects of eating plum in pregnancy. In fact, plums are considered safe and beneficial for pregnant women, as they are rich in nutrients that can help fight anaemia, constipation, and fatigue, prevent preterm labor, and strengthen bones.

However, pregnant women with kidney problems should avoid plums due to their link to kidney stone production. Also, it is important to be cautious not to swallow the pit and to avoid crushing or chewing it due to the presence of cyanide.

What does it mean if you have a plum craving during pregnancy?

Although there is no conclusive evidence, some theories suggest that pregnant women may crave plums due to hormonal changes or a deficiency in vitamin C. However, cravings for plums or any other fruit during pregnancy are normal and harmless.

Safe ways to eat plums during pregnancy

Here are some delicious and safe ways to eat plums and reap plum fruit benefits during pregnancy:

• Always wash plums before eating or using them in a recipe.
• Blend plums into a sauce. Plum sauce goes well with toast, pancakes, and waffles
• Combine plums with berries like blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries for a delicious salad. Adding mint and honey can improve the flavour.
• Plums are a nutritious addition to a bowl of cereal or a trail mix for breakfast.
• Enjoy a delicious drink by blending fresh plums.
• This fruit can also be used to make jams and jellies.
• Plums, when used in moderation, may be a wonderful and beneficial part of a healthy pregnancy diet.

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Frequently asked questions

1. Are black plums beneficial for pregnant women?

Magnesium (mg), which is found in black plums (also known as Jamun), is crucial in preventing preterm births. It also aids in fetal growth and development.

2. Can I eat plums every day while pregnant?

As long as your doctor doesn't object to it, you can eat plum in pregnancy every day. Just make mix and match them with a variety of other fruits and give a gap every now and then to minimise your risk of kidney stones.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, plums can be a healthy addition to a pregnant woman's diet. They are packed with nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for a healthy pregnancy. However, it is important to consume them in moderation and to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet during pregnancy. With the right precautions and a balanced diet, plums can be a tasty and nutritious snack for expectant mothers.

References

1. Monsefi M, Parvin F, Farzaneh M. (2013). Effects of plum extract on skeletal system of fetal and newborn mice. Med Princ Pract.

2. Igwe EO, Charlton KE. (2016). A Systematic Review on the Health Effects of Plums (Prunus domestica and Prunus salicina). Phytother Res.