One of the reasons why pregnant women are recommended to consume avocados during pregnancy is because this fruit contains folic acid which is good for fetal development. However, is that the only benefit of avocado for pregnant women? Instead of being curious, come on see the review.
Of course, the benefits of avocado for pregnant women are not limited to that, there are many other benefits that you can get. So, it is not surprising that this one fruit is often used as a mandatory food choice for pregnant women.
Some Benefits of Avocado for Pregnant Women
nowHere are some of the benefits of avocado for pregnant women based on the nutrients contained in it:
1. Source of calories and healthy fats
Pregnant women are encouraged to gain weight in a healthy way. The trick is to eat calorie foods. One fruit that is suitable as a source of calories during pregnancy is avocado. In 1 medium-sized avocado, contained 250 calories.
In addition, another benefit of avocado is as a source of healthy fats that are good for pregnant women and play a role in supporting the development of the brain and eyes of the fetus.
2. Source of fiber
Pregnant women are prone to problems in the digestive tract, one of which is constipation. This condition is usually caused by a lack of fiber in the diet of pregnant women. In addition, hormonal changes also make the muscles in the digestive tract of pregnant women relax, which slows down the process of digestion and movement of food.
So to prevent constipation, pregnant women are recommended to meet the daily fiber needs. Eating fruit is the safest way to meet this fiber requirement, one fruit that has high fiber content is avocado.
3. Source of various vitamins
Avocados are a source of various vitamins, such as vitamins C, E, K, B5, B6 and folic acid which are important for the health of pregnant women and the fetus.
For example, vitamin C is needed by pregnant women and fetuses because it can help protect and maintain healthy cells, form collagen, repair damaged tissue, accelerate healing, fight infection, and help the body absorb iron. While folic acid, is very useful for preventing neural tube defects in the fetus.
How to Prepare and Serve Avocado Variations
Choose avocados that are fresh or not too ripe because they can last longer.
To store unripe avocados, you should choose a room temperature place. Usually avocados will ripen within the next 4-5 days. If you want to speed up the ripening of the avocado, put it in a plastic bag.
Ripe avocados will be characterized by a blackish or dark purple skin color that is soft when pressed. At this time, the avocado is ready to be consumed. Before consuming it, wash the avocado until it is completely clean, then cut the fruit according to taste.
A few tips for those of you who only want to use some of the avocado. Do not throw the avocado seed in the half of the avocado that is not consumed. This will prevent the avocado's flesh from browning or ripening too quickly.
In addition to being consumed directly, avocados can also be served as a complementary ingredient on sandwiches, or used as juice drinks or drinks smoothies without adding milk.
When pregnant, it is important to choose the type of food that has complete and healthy nutrition. Avocados can be a healthy food choice during pregnancy. Don't hesitate to consult a doctor if you are in doubt or have certain health conditions.