You may have changed your diet to a healthy yet boring one once you found out you were pregnant, but it's not uncommon for pregnancy women to have unexpected cravings and something spicy might just be your thing now. When it comes to spicing up your dishes, pepper is the first thing that might come to mind, but you've been warned not consume too much during your pregnancy, since people think there is a relation between pepper fruit and pregnancy that is not so good for pregnant women. Is that right?
Advantages of Pepper During Pregnancy
Good for Your Digestion
Pregnancy can hinder a number of bodily functions and your digestive system can be a primary target. Pepper can provide you relief from gas, bloating and cramps caused by digestive issues during your pregnancy.
Cancer Prevention
Pregnancy can put you at risk for cancer in the future because of the many changes your body goes through. The antioxidants, carotenoids, in peppers can help prevent DNA damage and keep you at a lower risk of cancer.
Better Skin
Acne and other skin problems can be common during pregnancy because of all the hormonal changes taking place. Pepper, however, contains a number of ingredients that helps ward off skin problems.
Relieve Symptoms of Coughs and Colds
Pepper fruit and pregnancy can go hand in hand if you catch a cold while you're pregnant. There are many cultures around the world that have used pepper as a natural treatment for coughs and colds.
Antidepressant
Anxiety and depression are common among pregnant women. Adding pepper to your diet can help you keep away these common pregnancy blues.
Good Source of Folate
Pepper contains a significant amount of folate which is necessary to prevent neural tube defects in your baby.
Good for the Immune System
When you're pregnant, your immune system won't be working as effectively as it usually would. Pepper can help give your immune systems the extra boost it needs because it contains a good amount of vitamin C.
Balance Blood Pressure
Many pregnant women suffer from high blood pressure which can be a huge issue if unnoticed. Pepper contains a high amount of potassium which can help regulate blood pressure and help prevent hypertension and preeclampsia.
Disadvantages of Pepper During Pregnancy
However, you should also be aware of any possible problems related with using pepper while pregnancy.
Pepper Oil: Consuming pepper may not be harmful, but pepper fruit and pregnancy can be a concern when pepper oil is applied to the skin because it can stimulate the uterus. The stimulation can cause a pregnant woman to begin having contractions earlier than she should.
Third Trimester: During the third-trimester, women are more prone to have gastrointestinal problems if they consume too much pepper. This is because the baby is putting more pressure on the digestive system and stomach.
Emmenagogues: While there is no valid evidence, some have indicating that pepper and black pepper oil can be used as emmenagogues. This is a herb that stimulates blood flow to the pelvic area and uterus and if taken in large doses, it may cause termination of the pregnancy.
Allergies: Some women can experience allergy symptoms when consuming pepper and should not eat pepper during their pregnancy.
All in all, pepper fruit and pregnancy will not be a big cause for worry, but you don't want to add too much into your diet. And if you are hesitant about eating pepper during your pregnancy, then consult your doctor. You may be able to resist you spicy cravings but your health and your baby are not something you can ignore or experiment with during your pregnancy.
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