Pregnancy is a new experience which comes with a lot of responsibility but also unwanted apprehension & anxiety. Added to this are the constant tips and suggestions we keep getting from friends, family and everyone around possible. There are so many myths surrounding pregnancy and here is a small attempt at busting these pregnancy myths! Pregnancy Myth #1 - Curd should be avoided during pregnancy. Fact - Curd is a rich source of calcium, essential during pregnancy. Besides building teeth and bones, calcium also keeps your blood and muscles moving and helps your nerves send messages from your brain to the rest of your body. (https://www.webmd.com/baby/get-the-calcium-you-need-during-pregnancy#1) Pregnancy Myth #2 - Chocolate is bad for you during pregnancy Fact - A small amount of dark chocolate during pregnancy (especially during the first & second trimesters) can help improve circulation and reduce the risk of pre-eclampsia. The improved blood flow helps the placenta develop and function normally, leading to good pregnancy outcomes. (https://utswmed.org/medblog/dark-chocolate-pregnancy/) Pregnancy Myth #3 - Papaya is unsafe for consumption during pregnancy. Fact - Ripe papaya is safe during pregnancy as it is a rich source of fiber, potassium, Vitamin C & folate which are very beneficial during pregnancy. Unripe papaya contains latex which can lead to marked uterine contractions and could be unsafe in pregnancy. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12144723) Pregnancy Myth #4 - Mangoes are unhealthy for you during pregnancy. Fact - Mango is a power-packed fruit. Mangoes are rich in antioxidants, such as beta carotene and vitamin A, C and D, very important during pregnancy. Mango consumption can definitely cause increase in blood sugar levels. Thus, it is not advisable for obese mothers or those who are diabetic to consume the fruit. (https://indianexpress.com/article/parenting/health-fitness/can-you-eat-mangoes-when-pregnant-5750880/) Pregnancy Myth #5 - There is no need of supplements during pregnancy. Fact - During pregnancy, the nutritional needs increase 3 times for various minerals and vitamins. Our diet therefore, does not suffice for most cases and hence, external nutritional supplements are always needed. MamaBix biscuits are special iron & folic acid fortified supplements for meeting your increased iron demands during pregnancy. Pregnancy Myth #6 - Eating saffron & oranges during pregnancy can make your baby fairer. Fact - Complexion of the baby depends on various factors including genetic factors. It does not depend on the foods you eat in any way! Pregnancy Myth #7 - Exercising during pregnancy is harmful for the baby. Fact - If you had a strict work out regime before getting pregnant, you should not suddenly discontinue. A lighter work out routine under appropriate guidance can actually make you feel more energetic and happier. However, if you never used to work out before, a short light walk in a day is always beneficial since it makes you more active and keeps you energetic! Pregnancy Myth # 8 - Morning sickness only happens in the morning. Fact - Nausea and vomiting is common during pregnancy due to constant changes in hormones and can happen at any time of the day. In most cases, it happens during the morning hours. For some women, the condition begins to improve after the first trimester but for others, it continues throughout their pregnancy. Pregnancy Myth #9 - I should be ‘eating for 2’ during pregnancy. Fact - There is no scientific explanation of ‘eating for two’ during pregnancy. Your nutritional needs increase at this time but overeating is bad for both your and your baby’s health. A well balanced diet is what is important for fulfillment of your pregnancy needs. |