The list of things you can’t eat or drink can seem endless when you’re pregnant. It can be difficult to figure out what’s healthy and what’s not while trying to curb those powerful pregnancy cravings.
One group of foods you can be pretty confident about eating is fruit. There are many fruits that can be very beneficial during pregnancy, especially citrus.
Common citrus fruits include:
- Oranges
- Clementines
- Limes
- Lemons
- Grapefruit
- Tangerines
Here are 4 benefits of eating citrus during pregnancy:
1. Immune system booster
Your immune system takes a hit when you’re pregnant to protect the baby, so it can use frequent boosts to keep you healthy. Vitamin C is one of the best immune-boosting vitamins, and citrus fruits are loaded with it.
2. Aids in hydration
Citrus fruits added to water can help you drink more because of the added flavor. Water is extremely important during pregnancy so both you and your baby stay safe and healthy. Drinking enough water keeps a healthy amount of fluid around the baby for protection and carries nutrients and oxygen to your growing child.
3. Helps with nausea and digestion
Citrus may be able to curb morning sickness or general pregnancy nausea, but there’s not a whole lot of substantial research to back this up. It has been proven that diffusing lemon essential oils can help with nausea, though, so it can’t hurt to try.
Lemon has been known to help to calm the stomach. So if you struggle with morning sickness, add a little to your water or tea in the morning and see if it helps.
4. Helps develop a healthy baby
Growing babies need vitamin C for brain development and building strong bones. Citrus fruits also contain folate (folic acid), which can help to prevent certain brain and spinal cord defects in your baby.
Downsides of citrus
If you find that you’re struggling with an increase in heartburn or sensitive teeth, you may need to back off the citrus fruits. Citrus contains a lot of acids, which can cause erosion in your esophagus, stomach or teeth if you eat too much.
Ultimately, everything you eat during pregnancy (even healthy foods) should be done in moderation. Even too much of a good thing can be bad.
If you have questions or concerns about specific foods or drinks during pregnancy, ask your OB/GYN. At All About Women, your health and your baby’s health are of utmost importance to us. Make an appointment with a knowledgeable Florida obstetrician at our Gainesville or Lake City offices to discuss your pregnancy today.
