Sweet Potato During Pregnancy: Benefits, Risks & Side Effects

However, as with any food during pregnancy, it's important to understand both the advantages and potential risks associated with consuming sweet potatoes. In this article, we will explore the incredible benefits of sweet potato during pregnancy, any potential risks or side effects, and provide guidance on how to incorporate them into a healthy diet. So if you’re wondering whether or not you should be eating sweet potato in pregnancy, read on for everything you need to know.

Nutritional value of sweet potato

The importance of eating sweet potato in pregnancy cannot be understated. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is important for the development of the baby’s eyes, skin, and immune system. Sweet potatoes are also a good source of fibre, which can help with constipation, a common problem during pregnancy.

What are the benefits of sweet potato during pregnancy?

There are countless benefits of sweet potato during pregnancy. Here's what you need to know.

1. Nutrient-dense

Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of nutrients for pregnant women. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and B6, as well as potassium and fibre.

2. Prevent pregnancy-related problems

They can help to prevent constipation, maintain blood sugar levels, and provide the body with important antioxidants.

3. Proper baby development

Sweet potatoes are also a good source of folate, which is essential for the development of the neural tube in the baby's brain and spine.

Side effects of eating sweet potato during pregnancy?

There are a few side effects that have been associated with eating sweet potatoes during pregnancy. These include an increased risk of gestational diabetes, constipation, and diarrhoea. While these side effects are relatively mild and unlikely to cause serious harm to the mother or child, it is important to be aware of them before consuming sweet potatoes during pregnancy.

Risks of eating sweet potato in pregnancy?

Can we eat sweet potato during pregnancy? This is a commonly asked question. Sweet potatoes in pregnancy are generally considered safe to eat. However, there are a few potential risks to be aware off:

1. High oxalate level

One risk is that sweet potatoes may contain high levels of oxalates. These are compounds that can bind to calcium and other minerals in the body, making them unavailable for absorption. This can lead to deficiencies of these important nutrients.

2. High levels of natural pesticide

Another concern is that sweet potatoes may contain high levels of a natural pesticide called solanine. This substance can cause gastrointestinal upset and even nerve damage in high doses. Pregnant women should avoid eating any food that contains high levels of solanine.

You may also like: 7 Excellent Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids For Expecting Mothers

Can sweet potatoes lead to miscarriage?

There is no scientific evidence to suggest that sweet potatoes can lead to miscarriage. However, as with any food, it is important to eat them in moderation. Too much of anything can be harmful, and this includes sweet potatoes. Eating large amounts of sweet potatoes may cause gastrointestinal issues like gas and bloat. These symptoms can be uncomfortable and may even lead to vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s best to stop eating sweet potatoes and speak with your doctor.

How to eat sweet potato during pregnancy?

When you're pregnant, you need to make sure you're getting enough nutrients to support both you and your baby. Sweet potatoes are a great option for adding nutrients to your diet. Here's how to eat sweet potato during pregnancy.

You can roast them, bake them, or mash them. You can also add them to soups or stews. Sweet potatoes go well with other foods like chicken, fish, rice, and beans.

Also read: Guide: Following A Healthy Diet During Your First Trimester Of Pregnancy

Frequently asked questions and answers

1. Is sweet potato skin healthy during pregnancy?

Sweet potato skin is very healthy for pregnant women. It is a good source of fibre, which can help prevent constipation and other digestive issues common in pregnancy.

2. Is it safe for a pregnant woman to eat fried sweet potatoes?

Fried sweet potatoes are generally safe for pregnant women to eat in moderation. However, it is important to keep in mind that fried foods are generally less healthy than other cooking methods like baking or steaming. Baking or steaming are the best ways to eat sweet potato in pregnancy.

You may also like: Healthy Pregnancy Food

Conclusion

Overall, eating sweet potato during pregnancy is a nutritious and safe choice. It’s rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibre, which can help pregnant women (and their babies) stay healthy. We have covered in this blog important points like how to eat sweet potato during pregnancy and can pregnant women eat sweet potato. It is important to remember that there are some risks and side effects associated with eating sweet potatoes during pregnancy. So be sure to talk to your doctor before adding it to your diet. Visit Mylo family for educational blogs on expecting mothers and newborn babies.

References

1. Girard, A. W., Grant, F., Watkinson, M., Okuku, H. S., Wanjala, R., Cole, D., Levin, C., & Low, J. (2017). Promotion of Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato Increased Vitamin A Intakes and Reduced the Odds of Low Retinol-Binding Protein among Postpartum Kenyan Women. The Journal of Nutrition, 147(5), 955–963.

2. Jouanne, M., Oddoux, S., Noël, A., & Voisin-Chiret, A. S. (2021). Nutrient Requirements during Pregnancy and Lactation. Nutrients, 13(2), 692.

Tags

Sweet Potato During Pregnancy in Hindi, Sweet Potato During Pregnancy in Tamil, Sweet Potato During Pregnancy in Telugu, ⁠Sweet Potato During Pregnancy in Bengali