The benefits of brown rice can not only be enjoyed by dieters, you know. This type of rice also has extraordinary benefits when consumed by pregnant women. So, what are the benefits of brown rice for pregnant women?
Just as the name suggests, brown rice does have a red color. This type of rice is considered better than white rice because it contains more fiber, protein, and natural antioxidants which are certainly beneficial for health, including the health of pregnant women.
Benefits of Brown Rice for Pregnant Women
Just like white rice or rice that we usually consume, brown rice is a good source of carbohydrates to be consumed during pregnancy. The following are a series of benefits of brown rice for pregnant women:
1. As a source of energy
During pregnancy, it is natural for pregnant women to become tired more easily because they have to carry the fetus wherever they go. Therefore, pregnant women need more energy to carry out daily activities.
now, brown rice can be a good source of energy for pregnant women. If the source of energy in white rice is only carbohydrates, in brown rice, pregnant women also get energy from protein. Although not so much, this additional protein intake can bring quite a lot of benefits for pregnant women's health.
2. Control your weight during pregnancy
It is normal to gain weight during pregnancy, and it is even recommended in some circumstances. However, excessive body weight gain is certainly not good for pregnant women.
To control weight during pregnancy, pregnant women can increase their consumption of brown rice instead of white rice. Because this rice contains more fiber and protein, pregnant women can feel full longer and their appetite is more controlled.
3. Increase endurance
Brown rice is known for its high antioxidant content. Therefore, brown rice is very good consumed by pregnant women. The antioxidants contained in rice are able to ward off free radicals that can cause disease in pregnant women and fetuses.
In addition, antioxidants can also increase endurance during pregnancy, prevent preeclampsia, and reduce the risk of disturbances in fetal growth and development.
4. Prevents iron deficiency anemia
Anemia or lack of blood due to lack of iron supply is a pregnancy problem that is still common. To meet the needs of iron during pregnancy, pregnant women are strongly recommended to routinely take prenatal vitamins and consume iron-rich foods, such as brown rice.
5. Maintain digestive tract health
In 100 grams (± 2 spoons) brown rice contains at least 11 grams of fiber. This already meets almost half of the daily fiber needs of pregnant women. Fiber is needed during pregnancy to maintain digestive tract health, so pregnant women avoid constipation during pregnancy.
In addition to brown rice, pregnant women are also recommended to consume other sources of fiber, such as fruits and vegetables, every day.
6. Control blood sugar levels
Brown rice is a food with a low glycemic index. That is, by consuming brown rice every day, pregnant women's blood sugar levels can be well controlled.
This will reduce the risk of gestational diabetes which is prone to attack pregnant women, especially those who are obese and have a family history of diabetes.
7. Lowers the risk of experiencing leg cramps
Leg cramps are a common complaint experienced by almost all pregnant women. This can be caused by a lack of potassium and will make pregnant women feel uncomfortable to carry out activities.
Pregnant women can avoid the risk of leg cramps by consuming brown rice. Compared to white rice, brown rice contains far more potassium so it can be used as a source of potassium intake.
By knowing the information above, now pregnant women don't need to hesitate anymore to make brown rice a side dish for pregnant women at every meal. In addition to filling, brown rice also contains many benefits for the health of pregnant women.
In addition, pregnant women also still have to maintain and monitor their health during pregnancy by diligently exercising lightly, getting enough rest, and regularly checking their womb to the doctor.
