Who can even try to resist watermelons! They are so sweet and juicy that you just can’t keep your hands off it. Are you concerned if it is safe for you to eat during pregnancy? Is it going to harm your baby? If you have any such questions circling in your head, you should definitely read on. Doctors are always going to tell to you to have watermelons during your pregnancy stage as it is packed with nutrients. Make sure you don’t consume watermelons excessively as it can increase blood glucose levels and lead to gestational diabetes. Don’t forget to always opt for fresh watermelons instead of ones that were kept in the open for a long time as it can cause vomiting, nausea and gastrointestinal issues.
Here are some of the wonderful health benefits of watermelon during pregnancy:
1. Relieves Heart Burn
Acidity and heartburn are among the common issues that pregnant women suffer from. Watermelon helps to find instant relief from heartburn by soothing the stomach and the food pipe. It calms down you acidic stomach.
2. Treats Dehydration
Dehydration during pregnancy is extremely dangerous. Dehydration can lead to premature contractions and cause premature birth. Pregnant women should remain well hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Watermelon consists of 90% water and can prevent dehydration.
3. Prevents Preeclampsia
Watermelon is known for containing high lycopene levels which can minimize the risk of preeclampsia during pregnancy. This condition can result in serious effect for you and your baby. Eating fruits in any form can help reduce the risk of having a baby with intrauterine growth retardation.
4. Pumps Up Energy Levels
Watermelon is a great source of energy. No, it does not contain only water. It is packed with minerals and vitamins like magnesium, potassium, Vitamin A, Vitamin B1 and B6. Such nutrients boost your energy levels and keep you active throughout the day. Moreover, they contribute to the development of your baby’s immune and nervous system.
5. Alleviates Morning Sickness
Every other pregnant woman suffers from morning sickness. Drinking a glass of fresh watermelon juice early in the morning can ward off that uncomfortable morning sickness. Instead, it makes it gives you a refreshing feeling and keeps you activated throughout the day. The nutritional and energizing qualities of watermelon give you relief from morning sickness.
6. Relieves Muscle Cramps
A pregnant woman’s body goes through a lot of changes because of all the hormonal changes going on. The fluctuating hormones and increase in weight can cause pain in the bones and muscles. Incorporating watermelon to your diet can help your body deal with the uncomfortable changes and give your relief from muscle cramps.
7. Prevents Pigmentation
Many pregnant women are very worried because of the pigmentation issue that they are facing. Watermelon can prove to be helpful in preventing pigmentation. Watermelon helps to keep your bowel movements smooth and promotes easy digestion. As a result, it has positive effects on the texture of your skin making you glow and look beautiful.
8. Reduces Swelling
Swelling is a common complain during pregnancy especially light swelling on the feet and hands or edema. Watermelon contains high amount of water which decreases the blockage in the muscles and veins giving relief from edema.
