More benefits of watermelon, especially for pregnant women

Ms. Eshanka Wahi, a nutritionist in India, affirmed: "Watermelon is not only safe but also very beneficial for pregnant women. This fruit is rich in nutrients and brings many health benefits, contributing to a healthy pregnancy."

With its rich water content, watermelon helps cool the body, reduce swelling, and relieve morning sickness effectively. The fiber in watermelon aids digestion and prevents constipation.

Watermelon also provides vitamins and minerals essential for fetal development, according to OnlyMyHealth (India).

Watermelon provides abundant nutrition, supporting the health of both mother and baby.

Providing nutrition for pregnant mothers

According to Ms. Wahi, watermelon not only helps to cool down effectively, but also provides abundant nutrition, supporting the health of both mother and baby.

With a water content of up to 92%, watermelon helps pregnant women to rehydrate during pregnancy because it supports increased blood volume and helps maintain amniotic fluid levels. Dehydration is the cause of many dangerous complications such as premature birth.

Furthermore, watermelon also provides abundant vitamins A, C and B6. Vitamin A plays an important role in the development of the fetus's vision, vitamin C helps strengthen the immune system and supports collagen formation. Meanwhile, vitamin B6 will support the development of the baby's brain and nervous system.

Relieves discomforts during pregnancy

Watermelon also has the effect of relieving common discomforts during pregnancy, a little-known benefit.

Many pregnant women experience swelling in their feet and hands due to water retention. The high water content in watermelon can help reduce this swelling by promoting better fluid balance and reducing water retention, explains Wahi.

Heartburn is another common problem during pregnancy. The alkaline nature of watermelon can help neutralize stomach acid, providing relief. Additionally, the fiber in watermelon aids digestion and helps prevent constipation, a common symptom among pregnant women.

Reduce the risk of preeclampsia

Watermelon is a source of lycopene, an antioxidant. Ms. Wahi said lycopene helps reduce the risk of preeclampsia, a dangerous complication during pregnancy with symptoms such as high blood pressure and liver and kidney damage.

According to a 2003 study, daily supplementation of 4 mg of lycopene, equivalent to about 60% of the lycopene found in 152 grams of watermelon, can reduce the risk of preeclampsia by 50%.

However, expert Wahi also noted that eating too much watermelon can lead to excess sugar, affecting blood sugar levels, especially for pregnant women with gestational diabetes.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/them-loi-ich-cua-dua-hau-nhat-la-phu-nu-mang-thai-185240612162703015.htm