Many women may have low hemoglobin counts while breastfeeding. If you are among them, eating fruits such as pomegranates while breastfeeding will be beneficial. Apart from improving your hemoglobin levels, this fruit is known to prevent some oral and dental conditions. Read this post to explore whether it is safe to consume pomegranates while breastfeeding and some of its potential health benefits. This article also provides some important details on the usefulness and possible side effects of consuming this nutritious fruit.
What Is A Pomegranate?
A pomegranate is a flavorful, colorful, and nutritious fruit with spiny skin and distinctive crown to its red arils. Pomegranate derives its name from its Middle French name ‘pomme garnete’ which means ‘seeded apple’. The fruit is also popular as Chinese apple and contains high amounts of nutrients. So, as a nursing mom, you should be keen on including it in your diet (1).
Is It Safe To Eat Pomegranates While Breastfeeding?
Yes! It is perfectly safe to drink pomegranate juice while you breastfeed your baby. However, you should avoid a high intake of pomegranates while nursing. Consult your doctor before you raise the intake of pomegranate in your diet. The doctor will analyze your condition and recommend the appropriate intake of the fruit to ensure the safety of your newborn.
Health Benefits Of Eating Pomegranate While Breastfeeding
1. Cures stomach disorders
Pomegranate juice could treat stomach disorders, such as cholera and dysentery. Drinking fresh pomegranate juice relieves digestive problems while nursing a newborn (1).
2. Dental care
Another benefit of consuming pomegranate or pomegranate juice is that it helps minimize hazardous effects of dental plaque and prevents several oral ailments. Pomegranate possesses antiviral and antibacterial properties that ensure your dental hygiene and care (2).
3. Prevents anemia
Pomegranate fruit and its juice help enhance blood flow in the body. The high iron content of pomegranate helps minimize the symptoms of anemia while you breastfeed your little one. It effectively treats fatigue, dizziness, hearing loss, and exhaustion (3).
4. Treats osteoarthritis
Pomegranate treats the hardening and thickening of arterial walls, joints, and cartilages. This property makes pomegranate an effective treatment for osteoarthritis and atherosclerosis effectively. Also, eating pomegranate prevents the production of enzymes that sever connective tissues in your body.
5. Potassium-rich
Pomegranate is an excellent source of potassium, so it prevents kidney problems and infections while you are nursing your newborn.
6. Rich source of vitamin C and fiber
Pomegranate seeds contain high amounts of vitamin C so much so that it helps fulfills your 40% daily recommended intake of the crucial nutrient. Also, high levels of fiber in the fruit regulate blood pressure and satiate your hunger. If you find it difficult to chew and eat pomegranate seeds, you can place them as toppings in your oatmeal or yogurt and eat.
Side Effects Of Eating Pomegranate During Breastfeeding
Pregnant women rarely contract any side effects after eating pomegranates; although, some women may experience allergic reactions. Here are some of the common side-effects of eating pomegranate in excess while breastfeeding:
Unexplained rash or itching Hives Difficulty while breathing or wheezing Difficulty while swallowing Image: Shutterstock Swollen lips, throat, mouth, or tongue (1)
