Not only delicious and fresh, it turns out that there are various benefits of mango for pregnant women. Apart from being a source of energy, mangoes are also good for consumption as a complement to the nutritional and fiber needs for pregnant women and also the fetus, you know!
During pregnancy, pregnant women sometimes want or cravings sweet or sour food or drink. nowOne of the food choices that have both flavors and are healthy for pregnancy is mango.
The content of mango fruit and its benefits
Mango is a high-calorie fruit that is appropriate to be consumed to meet the increased calorie needs of pregnant women in the third trimester of pregnancy. Apart from that, mangoes contain several nutrients which are required during pregnancy.
The following is the nutritional content of mangoes and their benefits for pregnant women and fetuses:
1. Vitamin A
Mango contains Vitamin A which is also important for the development of fetal organs, such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys.
In addition, vitamin A is important for pregnant women to fight infection, strengthen the immune system, and repair body tissues after childbirth.
However, keep in mind that the recommended intake of vitamin A for pregnant women is 900–950 mcg (micrograms). If you have eaten enough foods rich in vitamin A, you no longer need to take vitamin supplements.
If you want to use vitamin A supplements while pregnant, you should consult with your doctor first so that the doctor can determine a safe dose of vitamin A, because consuming high doses of vitamin A can be dangerous for the fetus.
2. Vitamin C
Mangoes are a good source of vitamin C. The content of vitamin C in mangoes is needed by pregnant women and fetuses to produce collagen, which is a protein in the body that acts as an ingredient to form skin and bone tissue, as well as body connective tissue.
In addition, vitamin C is also important in the wound healing process and has antioxidant properties that can protect body cells from free radical damage.
3. Iron
During pregnancy, the need for iron will increase because the body of pregnant women needs to produce more blood to be distributed to the fetus. The iron content in mangoes is useful for supporting the production of red blood cells and preventing anemia during pregnancy.
Anemia during pregnancy is a dangerous condition because it can cause premature birth, low birth weight, and postpartum bleeding.
4. Vitamin B6
The content of vitamin B6 in mangoes plays an important role for the growth and development of the fetus in the womb. This vitamin is responsible for supporting the development and function of the brain and nervous system of the fetus.
In addition, vitamin B6 can also overcome morning sickness during pregnancy and maintain blood sugar levels of pregnant women to remain stable.
5. Potassium
Another benefit of mango for pregnant women is to prevent leg cramps during pregnancy. This is thanks to the potassium content in mangoes which plays an important role in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the body and regulating the contraction of the body's muscles.
6. Folate
The folate content in mangoes is also very beneficial for pregnant women. This one nutrient is very important for pregnancy because it can support the development of the nerves and brain of the fetus and prevent birth defects in the baby's spinal cord.
In addition, folate or folic acid also plays an important role in the production of red blood cells, thereby reducing the risk of anemia in pregnant women.
7. Fiber
Pregnant women need fiber intake to prevent constipation or constipation that often appears during pregnancy. The increase in the hormone progesterone during pregnancy causes relaxation of the body's muscles, including the intestines.
The slow-moving intestine causes digestion to run slower and eventually causes constipation.
Things to Pay Attention to When Eating Mangoes
For pregnant women who suffer from gestational diabetes, it is better to limit the intake of mangoes. The reason is that the sugar content in mangoes is high.
Mango fruit can be served in pieces of fresh fruit or processed into juice or smoothies. When choosing a mango, choose a fruit with an undamaged skin and wash the fruit before consuming it. Don't forget to wash your hands before eating mangoes.
Pregnant women are also advised to buy mangoes that are ripe naturally, not with chemicals or 'carbitan'. This is because the content of arsenic and phosphorus in the mango fruit 'carbitan' can poison pregnant women and fetuses.
In general, mango is a type of fruit that is good for consumption during pregnancy. However, if you have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or have an allergy to mangoes, you should consult your obstetrician first before consuming this fruit.