Dr Shobha Gupta, Medical Director and IVF Specialist at Mother's Lap IVF Centre, New Delhi, India, says pregnant women are always advised to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to stay healthy. But expectant mothers also need to be mindful of what they eat and how much they consume.
“As for cucumbers, they are one of the healthiest, lowest-calorie snacks that pregnant women can consume. Not only are they refreshing to eat, but they also offer a host of health benefits for both you and your baby,” says Dr Shobha Gupta.
According to Gupta, the high water content in cucumbers helps the body retain water and eliminate toxins. Cucumbers also contain many micronutrients including vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B and other minerals such as potassium, calcium, iron, zinc... These are important substances for the healthy growth and development of the fetus.
Ms. Shobha Gupta lists the benefits of eating cucumbers during pregnancy as follows:
- Cucumbers are rich in vitamin B, known as the feel-good vitamin because they reduce anxiety, relieve stress and improve the mood of both mother and baby.
- The electrolytes present in cucumbers can help regulate blood pressure levels during pregnancy.
- As a diuretic, cucumber helps reduce sodium levels and maintain fluid balance, thereby stabilizing blood pressure.
Additionally, since cucumbers are high in water, they help prevent pregnancy-related dehydration.
In addition, constipation and hemorrhoids are also common problems during pregnancy, so cucumbers, which are high in fiber, will help reduce these conditions.
Ms. Shobha Gupta also pointed out the disadvantages that pregnant women need to keep in mind when eating cucumbers. Accordingly, the Doctor noted that there is nothing wrong if you eat a little. Because, if you eat too much cucumber, it can lead to some side effects such as frequent urination due to high salt and water content. This leads to dehydration in pregnant women.
Side effects also cause pregnant women to have indigestion, bloating, gas, leading to bloating. Pregnant women should also avoid eating salty and spicy pickled cucumbers if they are suffering from swelling and high blood pressure.
