Dates during pregnancy: properties and norms of use at different times. Benefits of dates for pregnant women Benefits of dates for pregnant women

Dates are probably well known to women who watch their figure: many nutritionists unanimously say that there is no better substitute for sweets, marmalade and other sweets. For them, pregnancy is not a reason to eat extra pounds for themselves, and even more so it is not a reason to run into harmful factory sweets, in which there is nothing useful. Here are just a date - an exotic fruit, and not typical of our area. He will try to figure out if dates are possible during pregnancy.

What are dates?

For many millennia, dates have been considered a highly valuable food product among the population of North Africa and the Middle East. The first mention of the cultivation of the date palm was found in Mesopotamia and dates back to the 4th millennium BC. e. As a raw material for the production of wine, dates were grown in ancient Egypt, and after the construction of irrigation systems, date trees also appeared in Yemen (Arabian Peninsula).

In modern times, the main suppliers of dates are the countries of North Africa, the leaders among which are Tunisia and Algeria. The main industrial varieties of the date palm are majkhol and deglet nur. Fruits are usually sold in the form of dried fruits.

What are the benefits of dates?

- vitamins - nicotinic acid (B5), pyrodixin (B6), nicotinamide (PP), folic acid (B9), riboflavin (B2), thiamine (B1), phylloquinone (K), choline, β-carotene, retinol (A) , tocopherol (E), niacin (B3);
- macronutrients - potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, sodium;
- trace elements - copper, manganese, iron, zinc, selenium;
- 23 types of amino acids;
- oxytocin;
- from 50% fructose;
- pectin;
- a lot of protein.

The benefits of dates during pregnancy

Ѡ Dates contain natural oxytocin, a substance that the female body produces during labor. It has a calming effect on the central nervous system and stimulates uterine contractions. Many women in labor who have had weak contractions remember how they were given oxytocin drips to increase uterine contractions and induce attempts. Dates can successfully replace synthetic oxytocin.

Ѡ There are also many sugars in the fruits of the date palm. They will help you return to "combat readiness" at an early stage, fill you with energy when you lose strength in the later stages. Dates will provide the woman in labor with strength for childbirth, recovery after them and, very importantly, will contribute to a successful start.

Ѡ Dates contain a large amount of folic acid, without which a successful pregnancy outcome is not possible in principle. It is needed for the formation and development of the brain and central nervous system of the baby, the formation and division of cells, DNA synthesis. A lack of folic acid in the early stages inevitably leads to developmental defects and, and in the later stages to a critically reduced body weight of the child and.

Ѡ The presence of potassium in dates ensures the normal maintenance of the alkaline balance of the blood, the water balance of the intercellular and cellular fluid, the water-salt balance in general. Also, potassium is needed for the synthesis of proteins, which means the growth of muscle mass in the fetus, the implementation of the kidneys of their excretory function and the maintenance of a normal level of blood pressure.

Ѡ Phosphorus and calcium, which are part of dates, are certainly used to build the growing skeleton of a child and lay milk teeth. Also, the fruits will make up for the constant deficiency of these macronutrients in the body of a pregnant woman. The use of dates by the expectant mother is the prevention of osteoporosis and the strengthening of bone tissue and teeth.

Ѡ Dates can be one of the sources of iron. As you know, the lack of this microelement leads to, and, as a result, to - a deterioration in the delivery of oxygen from the mother's body to the fetus. This phenomenon is fraught with impaired development of the child's brain, the threat of miscarriage, premature birth and significant blood loss during childbirth.

Ѡ Just two or three dates during the day will satisfy the daily need for magnesium. This macronutrient is actively involved in bone growth and tissue repair, it is needed to transmit nerve impulses to the muscles and normalize the functions of the nervous system. Magnesium deficiency is often the cause of premature birth.

Ѡ Vitamin A, which is present in dates, is needed to strengthen the eye muscles of the mother and the healthy development of the visual system in the baby.

Ѡ In combination with dietary fiber, which is so abundant in dates, the pectin contained there acts as a prophylactic against cancers in the stomach and intestines.

Indications for the use of dates during pregnancy

- toxicosis;
- ;
- weakened immunity;
- vision problems;
- fragility of nails and hair;
- high blood pressure;
- ;
- to enhance labor activity;
- with a decrease in the amount of breast milk.

Dates can be eaten ready-made, washed with running water, or used for baking, jelly, compotes, and various desserts.

Harm of dates and possible contraindications for use

Their presence is unacceptable in the diet of patients, since the fruits have a high glycemic index, and they provoke a sharp jump in blood sugar.

In very small quantities, dates should be consumed by women with gastrointestinal diseases: fiber and dietary fiber in fruits are quite coarse.

A person with an active rhythm of life should eat no more than 8-10 dates per day. With a sedentary lifestyle, their daily amount will have to be reduced to 5 pieces.

It is not necessary to abuse dates, not only because of their high calorie content. When eating a large number of fruits, a headache and heaviness in the stomach may occur. Also, these dried fruits can affect the condition of the teeth, so after eating dates, you should definitely clean them or rinse your mouth with warm water.

Secrets of choosing good dates

Also, when choosing, you should pay attention to how the fruits look externally. If they are flattened, with cracked and exfoliated skin in many places and with a glossy sheen, they are dried piece by piece, in special chambers, and not in the sun.

Sugar crystals on the surface, a fermented odor, shriveled skins, and broken or too hard fruits may indicate that dates have not been stored properly or have reached their expiration date.

Naturally dried dates are dry to the touch, slightly sticky, slightly translucent in the sun. The bone is separated with little difficulty. Mature fruits are dark, most often dark brown, without damage or defects.

Sun-dried dates are always prettier than dried dates. They are sticky, without wrinkles, rich brown, the flesh is both soft and sinewy at the same time. Such fruits are tasty, but sulfur is often used for their heat treatment.

Here, perhaps, is the minimum that a future mother needs to know about dates. Eat with pleasure for yourself, your beauty and your unborn child.

About the benefits of dates (video)

How to grow a date palm from seed? (video)

The fruits of the date palm are considered a storehouse of vitamins and minerals and a highly valuable food product. But since a woman in an “interesting position” can not consume all foods, even very useful ones, she needs to know the list of those that are undesirable or forbidden to eat, and those that can be eaten without restrictions. Which of these lists includes a date, we propose to figure it out together.

As a rule, they are consumed in the form of dried fruits. Their man began to eat in ancient times, at the same time he was convinced of their useful properties. Mentions of these fruits can be found in the Bible and the Koran. The date deserved such attention due to its valuable chemical composition, nutritional value and calorie content.

It includes,, mono- and disaccharides,.

The nutritional value of 100 g of dates is as follows:

• - 2.5 g (3.3% of the daily requirement);
• fats - 0.5 g (0.8%);
• - 69.2 g (32.8%);
• dietary fiber - 6 g (30%).

The rich chemical composition causes benefits for the human body, including for pregnant women.

Did you know?When using 1 date and 1 glass of milk, a person saturates the body with the entire complex of amino acids needed per day.

In the early stages

In the 1st trimester, a woman especially needs to monitor her health and nutrition, since it is at this time that the laying of the vital organs and systems of the baby takes place, as well as the formation of the placenta.

During this period, such useful properties of dried dates are especially important for pregnant women:

Important! Dates can only be beneficial if used in moderation. The recommended daily allowance for a pregnant woman is 2-3 fetuses.

In the second trimester

In the 2nd trimester, one of the most important beneficial effects of dates is the saturation of the body of a pregnant woman with iron. Since this element is necessary to supply cells with oxygen, this helps prevent oxygen starvation of the fetus and insufficient nutrition of the placenta.

Still relevant during this period are such actions of dried fruit as strengthening the immune system, replenishing the deficiency of vitamins and minerals, saturation with protein and amino acids.

At a later date

In the 3rd trimester, dates can bring a lot of benefits. Firstly, not so long ago, experts discovered that this dried fruit is able to activate the production of oxytocin, a hormone that is produced shortly before the onset of labor and is responsible for uterine contractions, and also affects the lactation process.
Gynecologists often advise women to eat dates in the later stages so that the birth goes well and the body tunes in to successful lactation.

Secondly, some pregnant women in the later stages may experience an increase in blood pressure. Dates are able to normalize it.

Thirdly, dried fruits help to remove excess fluid from the body. And this is necessary for those women who are diagnosed with preeclampsia with edema and poor fluid outflow.

Did you know? Date palm branches have a symbolic meaning for different peoples since ancient times. Thus, the inhabitants of Asia Minor used them in funeral rites as a symbol of longevity. In ancient Greece and Rome, it was a symbol of victory - the winners of the Olympic Games received a branch along with an olive wreath. For Christians, it is a symbol of martyrdom.

Contraindications and precautions

Like any product, dates can bring both benefits and harm to the body of a pregnant woman.
Absolute contraindications to the use of these fruits are:

• diabetes mellitus and sugar intolerance;
• obesity;
• diseases of the digestive system (including stomach ulcers, gastritis);
• individual intolerance to the product;
• the presence of allergies;
• bronchial asthma;
• pathology of the kidneys and urinary system.

When buying, you should pay attention to such factors:

1. The fruits must be ripe and evenly colored.
2. They must be free of mold.
3. They should be moderately hard and sticky.
4. The seller must be trustworthy.

Important! If at the time of purchase there is no information in what conditions the dates were dried and stored, they should be doused with boiling water before use, in order to avoid microbes entering the body.

Methods of use

Dried dates can be eaten as a dessert with

Thus, dates are a valuable food product that is very important to include in the menu during pregnancy. Date palm fruits can harm only people who have certain health problems. For the body of a healthy pregnant woman, they will be very useful. The use of these dried fruits is allowed at any time.

Dates are tasty and healthy dried fruits, a valuable source of vitamins and minerals. In Asian countries, it is believed that dates and water alone can hold out for several months without significant harm to health. Pregnant women should not risk and test this statement for themselves, but you can include dates in your diet - and enjoy the pleasant taste for the benefit of your body. What should a future mother know about dates?

Compound

Dates are fruits of the date palm used for food. Dates appear on store shelves as dried fruits. The birthplace of the date palm is Mesopotamia. For thousands of years, dates have been a staple food in North Africa and the Middle East. Currently, dried fruits are produced in most regions with a hot climate.

The value of dates is determined by their composition:

• vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, H, PP;
• mineral elements: copper, magnesium, manganese, iron, zinc, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, boron, fluorine;
• essential amino acids;
• carbohydrates (up to 65%);
• pectins.

Dates are a very high-calorie product (up to 250 kcal). Sweet dried fruits perfectly satisfy hunger and can be used as a snack, second breakfast or afternoon snack. It is recommended to eat dates in the morning before walking or other physical activities.

Beneficial features

I trimester

Dates contain up to 65% carbohydrates. This is the largest percentage of sugars among all dried fruits. Date fruits quickly satisfy hunger, restore strength and give a charge of good mood. Sweet dried fruits increase appetite, which is especially important for toxicosis in early pregnancy. A few dates eaten in the morning before breakfast also help fight nausea and reduce the frequency of vomiting in the first trimester.

Dates are a valuable source of vitamins and minerals necessary for the normal development of the fetus. In the first trimester, when all organs are laid down, the nutrition of the expectant mother should be complete and varied. But what if early pregnancy occurs in winter and spring, when fresh fruits and vegetables are practically not available? Dates will help out - sweet and nutritious dried fruits, a tasty and healthy snack for the expectant mother

Dates contain the following vitamins and minerals:

• vitamin A - stimulates the division and differentiation of embryonic cells;
• vitamins of group B - provides a stable metabolism in a woman's body;
• vitamin C - stimulates the immune system and activates blood flow (including in the pelvic organs);
• vitamin H - strengthens hair and nails, improves the skin condition of the expectant mother;
• vitamin PP - improves microcirculation and stabilizes blood pressure;
• calcium and phosphorus - affect the development of bone tissue;
• iron and copper - provide oxygen to the tissues;
• magnesium - helps a woman's body adapt to new conditions.

Regular consumption of dates in the first trimester saturates the body of a pregnant woman with useful vitamins and microelements and contributes to the harmonious development of the fetus.

II and III trimester

In the second half of pregnancy, dates do not lose their significance for expectant mothers. Due to the high content of iron and copper, dried fruits reduce the risk of anemia and prevent fetal hypoxia. Dates are recommended for women on a vegetarian diet or other dietary restrictions.

Dates - fresh or dried - have the unique property of stimulating the production of oxytocin in the body of a pregnant woman. This hormone prepares the uterus for the upcoming birth and ensures a favorable course of the birth process. With regular use, dates help a woman's body to tune in to the birth of a child and create the conditions for successful adaptation after childbirth.

Other health benefits of dates:

• normalize the activity of the digestive tract;
• eliminate constipation and heartburn;
• stimulate the excretion of urine;
• cleanse the body of toxins;
• stabilize blood pressure;
• reduce cholesterol levels;
• protect and strengthen the walls of blood vessels.

The use of dates is recommended in violation of the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, gastrointestinal tract. Dates will also be useful for colds. Sweet dried fruits stimulate the immune system, give strength to fight infection and speed up recovery.

Precautionary measures

Dates are not recommended for stomach ulcers and exacerbation of gastritis. You should not get carried away with dried fruits in the pathology of the kidneys and urinary tract. During the period of remission, you can occasionally indulge yourself with dates (provided that the product is well tolerated).

Method of use

The daily norm for pregnant women is 5-10 fruits per day. Excessive passion for dates can lead to rapid weight gain and other complications.

Of these, dates are dominated by fiber, fructose, glucose, vitamin B5, potassium and magnesium. They mainly determine the beneficial effect on:

• digestive system (appetite and stomach work improve, constipation, flatulence, heartburn and bloating are eliminated);
• metabolism and energy (slags and heavy metals are removed, efficiency increases, strength is restored);
• nervous system (nervous tension is relieved, mood rises, sleep normalizes, mental activity improves);
• cardiovascular system (the heart muscle is strengthened, blood circulation and blood formation processes are improved);
• the immune system (the condition is relieved with colds, coughs, headaches and inflammatory processes);
• skin (hair and nails are strengthened, the skin becomes smooth and tender).

Who are contraindicated

However, not everyone can eat dates. They are contraindicated in:

• diabetes mellitus and predisposition to it. Dates quickly increase blood sugar levels. Therefore, they are classified as foods with a high glycemic index;
• fruit allergies;
• malabsorption, that is, fructose intolerance, the symptoms of which are abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence and diarrhea.

Is it possible during pregnancy

In turn, oxytocin plays an important role in labor activity. It affects the smooth muscles of the uterus, reduces the cervix before childbirth and during periods of contractions. In small concentrations, it increases the contractile activity of the uterus, increasing the frequency and amplitude of its contractions. In large ones, it increases the tone of the uterus, while speeding up and intensifying contractions.

Based on this, dates are especially useful in the last months of pregnancy and before childbirth. At the same time, there is no ban on the use of dates in the first and second trimesters. At this time, you can eat them if a pregnant woman:

• there are no contraindications;
• normal uterine contractions.

Along with this, it is important to observe moderation in use.

How to eat

In the homeland of growth, dates are eaten in different forms: fresh, boiled, fried, dried or dried. Dried or dried fruits predominate on our shelves.

The daily intake of dates for pregnant women has not been determined. At the same time, an adult is recommended to eat no more than 2-3 fresh fruits of medium size per day. This is approximately 300 g.

The calorie content of dried and dried dates is higher than fresh ones. In this connection, their daily intake is less. In the first and second trimesters - 4-6 dried fruits, in the third - 5-7. The norms are adjusted individually, depending on the effect of dates on the pregnant woman.

These fruits are very sweet and can adversely affect the condition of the teeth. Therefore, after taking them, it is advisable to brush your teeth or rinse your mouth with warm water.

Needless to say, the nutrition of a pregnant woman is a separate, very important point in carrying a baby. About what pregnant women need to eat, what products should appear on the menu, at what time, you can find out even at the planning stages. But still, many women in the position still have questions: are any products prohibited, is it necessary to limit their consumption. Very often they think so about dried fruits, they doubt whether it is worth eating the same dates during pregnancy.

Simple answer: can pregnant women eat dates

In general, dates will not hurt a healthy pregnancy. They are useful in moderation. But if a pregnant woman has extra weight that is not related to bearing a fetus, she is generally prone to overweight, then you definitely shouldn’t lean on dates. This is explained by the fact that dates contain a large percentage of fructose and vegetable protein.

The usefulness of dates is that, despite the large amount of simple sugars, they contain the very dietary fibers that have a good effect on bowel function. During pregnancy, especially in the later stages, this is of considerable importance.

Dates contain:

• Vitamin C;
• beta carotene;
• Magnesium, iron, copper and potassium are the most important group of trace elements;
• B vitamins;
• Folic acid.