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Every woman coursing through her pregnancy has innumerable questions clouding her mind, but one question deserves to be crowned as the most contemplated one: “Is there any way to ease labour?”. The thought of going into labour is scary and creates a sense of apprehension, but there is a ray of hope. Research suggests that eating dates during pregnancy can ease your labour.
To corroborate the same, we at OnlyMyHealth connected with an expert, Dr. Archana Dhawan Bajaj, Gynaecologist, Obstetrician, and IVF Expert, Nurture IVF Clinic, New Delhi. Dr. Bajaj says, “Pregnancy is a lovely phase in the life of a woman in which her body undergoes both physical and emotional changes. During this crucial time of life, it is essential to have a healthy diet throughout those nine months. The diet that pregnant women consume influences the health of both the mother and the foetus.
Can Dates Ease Labour?
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“During pregnancy, women are usually recommended to follow a certain diet in order to ensure that the baby receives all of the nourishment it needs for optimal growth. Dates are one of the specialised foods that are not only safe to consume during pregnancy but are, in fact, a nutrient powerhouse, says Dr. Bajaj. She lists some concrete evidence corroborating the link between the two.
- Research involving almost 200 pregnant women discovered that eating dates can help with cervix softening, often known as cervical ripening for childbirth.
- Another study found that pregnant women who ate six dates per day for four weeks before their due date had a shorter first stage of labour and a softer cervix before giving birth.
- Eating dates in late pregnancy has also been demonstrated to reduce the requirement for oxytocin, a medicine used to induce or speed up birth.
It is believed that eating dates may lessen the requirement for labour induction. While more study is needed to determine whether it would help all women, it wouldn't hurt to eat a couple in the days leading up to your due date!
The Guilt-Free Sweet Treat For Expectant Mothers
Dr. Bajaj says, “You can feel energised one day and then weary and unable to think properly the next. (Thanks to pregnancy brain fog.) The more minerals and vitamins you get into your system, the better you'll feel both physically and emotionally.
Dates are the fruits of the date palm tree, a flowering plant. Dates are considered one of the sweetest fruits. But do not fear; this is natural sugar.” She says that eating this dried fruit is a better way to fulfil your desire for sweets than typical ice cream. Dates, which are high in natural fructose, may also provide energy to combat pregnancy exhaustion, making them a win-win.
Also Read: What Should You Eat During Pregnancy For An Intelligent Baby?
Benefits of Eating Dates During Pregnancy
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A study reported that date fruit consumption during late pregnancy has been shown to positively affect the process of labour by curbing the otherwise adverse effect on both the baby and mother. Dr. Bajaj lists down the following nutritional advantages of consuming dates during pregnancy.
- Dates are also high in fibre, which helps to keep your digestive system functioning properly. As a result, you are less likely to experience constipation through your pregnancy.
- Dates also contain folate, iron, and vitamin K, which help lower the chance of birth abnormalities. Also, increasing your iron intake might increase your energy and help you combat iron deficiency anaemia.
- Furthermore, vitamin K aids in the development of strong bones in developing babies and can improve muscle and nerve function. Dates are also high in potassium, an electrolyte component that helps keep blood vessels flexible and blood pressure low.
- Lastly, dates can also act as alternatives for sugar substitutes. If you want to cut back on processed sugar and artificial sweeteners, you may incorporate dates into your diet. Dates are a natural source of sweetness, and they can help you fulfil your sweet cravings.
Ease Your Labour Naturally
From easing labour to a healthy pregnancy, this humble dry fruit has it all. Mindfully include this in your diet and make the most of its benefits. What are you waiting for? It’s time to add this humble dried fruit to your diet for a burst of natural sweetness, essential nutrients, and even labour support; ensuring a healthier journey for both you and your baby!