7 Benefits Of Consuming Dates From 37th Week Of Pregnancy

1. Nutritional Benefits: Dates are a good source of nutrients like carbohydrate, calcium, potassium, iron, folate, B vitamins etcetera. These nutrients are found to be beneficial during pregnancy. For example, iron helps in preventing anaemia, folate prevents neurological defects in the baby and so on. (Image Source: Canva)

2. Satisfies Sweet Cravings: Dates can also be helpful in fulfilling the sweet cravings during pregnancy in a healthy manner. (Image Source: Canva)

3. May Support Easier And Shorter Labour: Research evidence though weak also suggests that dates are helpful during the end of pregnancy as it helps in making the labour easy. It is found to be helpful in decreasing the duration of labour and reduces the need for oxytocin. (Image Source: Canva)

4. Easy To Include In Diet: Dates are very versatile as they can be added in your diet easily. They can be used as a substitute for sugar. They can be added in baked goods, smoothies, shakes, salads or they can be consumed by themselves also. The quantity should be kept in control as they are high in calories. (Image Source: Canva)

5. Recommended Time To Start Eating Dates: Research suggests that pregnant women should start consuming dates around 37th-38th week of pregnancy for labour preparation. However, more research needs to be done to confirm these effects. (Image Source: Canva)

6. Consult Your Doctor If You Have Gestational Diabetes: Women with gestational diabetes or glucose intolerance should consult their healthcare provider regarding the number of dates to be consumed as dates are rich in sugar and can lead to blood glucose spike if not eaten in moderation. (Image Source: Canva)

7. Low Glycaemic Index Helps Fight Fatigue: Dates have a low Glycaemic Index as compared with refined sugars and thus helps in sustained release of energy which helps the pregnant women to fight fatigue. (Image Source: Canva)

Inputs By: Avni Kaul, Nutritionist, Dietician And Wellness Coach, Founder Of Nutri Activania, Specialist Of Pregnancy Health (Image Source: Canva)