A number of studies have shown the various benefits of chocolate for pregnant women, including to prevent preeclampsia. Chocolate is known to contain antioxidants and minerals that are beneficial for health, not only the health of pregnant women themselves, but also the fetus.
The benefits of chocolate for pregnant women can be obtained by consuming dark chocolate (dark chocolate). This type of chocolate is characterized by a more bitter taste, due to its low sugar content.
A number of benefits of chocolate for pregnant women
Chocolate has long been known to have health benefits. If consumed in moderate portions, chocolate can also bring additional benefits for pregnant women and fetuses. The following are the various benefits of chocolate for pregnant women:
1. Lowering the risk of preeclampsia
Chocolate consumption in the first or third trimester of pregnancy has been associated with a reduced risk of developing preeclampsia. A study revealed that pregnant women who regularly consume 1-3 servings of chocolate per week during the first trimester have a 50 percent lower risk of developing preeclampsia.
However, this still needs to be investigated further, in order to know more clearly how the effectiveness of chocolate in preventing preeclampsia.
2. Prevent hypertension
Besides being able to reduce the risk of preeclampsia, eating chocolate during pregnancy can also prevent hypertension. Some studies even reveal that consuming chocolate dark chocolate able to control blood pressure, although the effect is not too strong.
3. Prevent premature contractions and form hemoglobin
Chocolate is a great source of magnesium and iron. Both of these minerals are needed during pregnancy. Magnesium is needed by pregnant women to prevent premature contractions.
While iron is needed to form hemoglobin, which functions to bind oxygen in the blood and circulate it throughout the body, including the fetus. Increased blood volume and oxygen demand during pregnancy make pregnant women's need for iron also increases.
4. Accelerate the growth and development of the fetus
Other studies have also found that consuming 30 grams of chocolate per day during pregnancy can support fetal growth and development, and maintain the health of the placenta or placenta.
5. Fix mood
During pregnancy, many pregnant women experience mood swings (mood swings). This condition is generally caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy. now, chocolate consumption is believed to make mood pregnant women get better.
How Much Chocolate is Can Consumed by Pregnant Women?
Although chocolate has many benefits, pregnant women are not recommended to consume it in excess. Ideally, pregnant women are only allowed to consume chocolate in small portions, which is 30 grams a day or the equivalent of a few bites.
Consuming chocolate in excess is not good for pregnant women because it can increase weight drastically. Chocolate also includes foods that cause stomach acid to rise. In pregnant women, especially those entering the third trimester, this condition will occur more frequently and make pregnant women feel very uncomfortable.
In addition, there are still many other nutrients that pregnant women need to consume, such as folic acid, protein, and calcium, so don't just rely on chocolate for nutritional intake.
Pregnant women are advised to only consume chocolate occasionally and not regularly. This is because chocolate contains caffeine which needs to be limited during pregnancy. Not to mention that chocolate also contains calories and fat which is quite high.
If you have a pregnancy disorder, such as gestational diabetes, you should first consult with your obstetrician before consuming chocolate.
