There are many benefits of broccoli for pregnant women. Besides being able to increase endurance, consuming broccoli during pregnancy is also good for supporting fetal growth and development. Come on, know other benefits of broccoli for pregnant women here!
The benefits of broccoli for pregnant women come from the nutrients contained in it. Broccoli contains lots of fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, iron, folate, potassium, and calcium. This nutrient is certainly very good for pregnant women and the fetus they contain.
Benefits of Broccoli for Pregnant Women
There are various benefits of broccoli for pregnant women. Following are some of them:
1. Increase endurance
Consumption of broccoli during pregnancy can help increase the body's immunity. This benefit can be obtained because broccoli contains vitamin C which is quite high. In addition, vitamins that can act as antioxidants can also protect body cells from damage caused by free radicals.
2. Prevent constipation
The high fiber and antioxidant content in broccoli can support digestive health. Consuming broccoli in moderation can help prevent constipation which is prone to occur during pregnancy.
3. Prevent anemia
The benefit of consuming broccoli for the next pregnant woman is to prevent anemia which is characterized by low levels of hemoglobin in the body. Broccoli contains iron which is quite high, so it is useful in the formation of hemoglobin in pregnant women.
4. Support the development of the fetus in the womb
The high content of folic acid in broccoli is very important in the formation of genetic material and cell growth. Consuming green vegetables is also able to support the development of the fetus in the womb.
Therefore, it is very important to meet the needs of folic acid during pregnancy. One of the benefits is to prevent neural tube damage, such as spina bifida or anencephaly.
5. Maintain fluid and electrolyte balance in the body
Broccoli also contains quite a lot of potassium. This content has an important role in maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance in the body. In addition, adequate consumption of potassium during pregnancy can reduce the risk of leg cramps experienced by some pregnant women.
6. Reduce the risk of pregnancy complications
The high calcium content in broccoli can meet the daily calcium needs of pregnant women. If calcium needs are met properly, the risk of pregnant women to experience pregnancy complications, such as preeclampsia and eclampsia, can be reduced.
So that the benefits of broccoli for pregnant women can be obtained to the maximum, it is important to pay attention to how to process it. Before sautéing or cooking broccoli, make sure you wash it properly.
Washing vegetables should be done with running water. The goal is that the dirt and bacteria found in vegetables can be washed away by the water, so you avoid food poisoning.
Please note that broccoli is one of the vegetables that often makes you feel full because it contains raffinose, which is a type of sugar that will produce gas when digested by intestinal bacteria. This of course can cause stomach discomfort, especially in pregnant women. Therefore, also pay attention to the large portion of broccoli that you eat, yes.
The benefits of broccoli for pregnant women are varied, but that doesn't mean you only need to eat broccoli. There are many other healthy foods that you can consume to maintain the health of the fetus and yourself during pregnancy. If necessary, consult a doctor to find out what nutrients are needed during pregnancy.