Although cranberry juice has a strong, tart flavor, many pregnant women develop an intense craving for it. Perhaps, that made you wonder whether pregnancy craving for cranberry juice is normal.
While the precise reason for cravings during pregnancy is unknown, many suggest it’s because of a vitamin C deficit or hormonal shifts. On the other hand, cranberry juice is a known ailment for nausea symptoms. But these are not the only merits of drinking a healthy drink. Read on to learn why it’s beneficial to consume cranberry juice while pregnant:
How does cranberry juice help during pregnancy?
There are numerous benefits of cranberry juice during pregnancy. While it’s generally healthy in moderate amounts, it’s even possible that your body is communicating what it needs.
Some of the beneficial nutrients that cranberries have include:
- Vitamin C – strengthens connective tissues and supports a robust immune system. Additionally, it can lessen the likelihood of difficulties during pregnancy, including pre-eclampsia.
- Vitamin E is a crucial antioxidant that supports immunological health, balances hormones, and is vital for embryonic development. It might help lessen the chance of oxidative stress-related pregnancy problems.
- Vitamin K1 – supports bone health and aids in bodily healing. It is necessary for healthy blood coagulation, lowering the risk of bleeding during pregnancy and neonatal bleeding.
- Manganese is crucial for fetal growth, particularly in the development of fetal bones and cartilage. It might also guard against cell deterioration.
- Copper is essential for numerous biological processes, such as using iron and synthesizing energy in metabolism.
Apart from the vitamins and minerals, cranberries also include proanthocyanidins. By preventing bacteria from sticking to urinary tract tissue, these promote a healthy urinary system and lessen the likelihood of urinary tract infections (UTIs). But that’s not the only advantage of regular cranberry intake. Here are the most significant benefits of drinking cranberry juice during pregnancy taken from motherhoodtips.com:
6 Ways Cranberry Juice Can Help during Pregnancy
Modern clinical studies have demonstrated that cranberry juice has health advantages beyond those related to bladder and urogenital issues. During pregnancy, consuming cranberry juice can bring lots of health benefits. While some of them are already known, some perks may surprise you. Here’s how cranberry juice helps during pregnancy:
Cranberry Juice Prevents UTIs
As already mentioned, proanthocyanidins in cranberries help prevent bacterial adhesion to the walls of the bladder and urinary system. Since the uterus expands during pregnancy, ensuring free urine drainage from the bladder is crucial. Regular cranberry intake will prevent the growth of bacteria in the urinary tract and, thus, UTI infections.
Cranberry Juice Keeps Your Teeth Clean And Healthy
The prenatal period requires a lot of calcium and magnesium, which cranberries can provide. Moreover, they are also rich in vitamins C, E, and K. While vitamin C promotes tissue healing, cell protection, and the growth of your baby’s bones and teeth, it can help you too. One of the common problems women experience during pregnancy is dental issues. Daily consumption of 250 mL of cranberry juice or a handful of cranberries will help stop cavities, plaque buildup, and tooth decay.
Cranberry Juice Prevents And Treats Constipation
Constipation is one of the typical problems throughout pregnancy. It’s common during all three trimesters and is the result of hormonal changes and an expanding belly. In this case, prenatal vitamins, hormones, and the expanding belly all have a role in it. Luckily, cranberries might prevent the issue from becoming more severe by providing ample fiber. The latter helps the stool move more easily through the intestines with only a few handfuls of cranberries daily.
Immunity Booster
Women commonly have decreased immune levels during and after pregnancy. Fortunately, cranberries can boost a pregnant woman’s immune system through proanthocyanidins. They aid the body’s maintenance of a healthy immune system and stop germs from building up in the gut lining. Moreover, cranberry juice promotes the growth of immune-boosting bacteria, which help the body fight off numerous diseases and disorders.
Hydration during Pregnancy
New moms must always stay hydrated to keep the baby in optimal health. In this regard, cranberries are a great source of water. The bright red berry is a natural source of hydration with its 90% water content. While drinking mineral water can be perfectly fine, regular cranberry juice intake will help diversify your daily diet.
Cranberry Juice Helps Prevent Edema
Edema is a common issue during pregnancy. It’s a type of swelling that occurs when your tissues become filled with water. This type of puffiness can expand to all limbs, including the face. Surprisingly, cranberries are an excellent diuretic that prevents and treats edema. Drinking cranberry juice will help you relieve the symptoms of edema and rehydrate. On the other hand, it promotes iron absorption, a crucial mineral that prevents anemia during pregnancy.
Why Healthy Diet Is Important During Pregnancy
Maintaining a proper diet during pregnancy can largely influence your baby’s health. In this regard, including healthy food like cranberries in your meal plan can have many benefits. Whether you snack on them or make juice or jam, they can help you fight inflammation. Of course, you should always consult a doctor or a nutritionist to know the proper dosage for your needs.
