Coconut Milk During Pregnancy

You must have heard of several myths around what to consume during pregnancy.

In the same way, it is common to think about whether or not to have coconut milk during pregnancy.

To help you out, there are some scientific explanations behind coconut and how it can be a good food during the pregnancy phase.

Traditionally, coconuts were used for cooking in almost every tropical country.

There is quite a hype regarding the benefits and risks involved with the consumption of coconut milk, coconut oil during pregnancy!  

Coconut Milk During Pregnancy

Coconut offers numerous advantages that will help in boosting the health of both mother and the baby.

You can enjoy coconut in various forms like coconut milk, coconut oil, solid form, or even coconut water.

As per experts, coconut milk is safe to drink during pregnancy, and you can safely use it for cooking.

However, you should remember that coconut milk has higher fat than other milk substitutes, impacting the mother and baby. 

You can get coconut milk by blending the blended flesh of mature coconuts and water, and never confuse them with coconut water that you find inside the green coconuts.

You can cook and even drink coconut milk during pregnancy.

It is another source that includes healthy fat that might reduce LDL or bad cholesterol and increase HDH or good cholesterol. 

But, because of the high-fat content, experts advise you to use coconut milk in moderation if you’re using it as an alternative to dairy.

A cup of coconut milk includes an average of 360 calories and 36 grams of fat.

When you select a brand of coconut milk, make sure you pick the unsweetened one and, if possible organic. 

1. Coconut Milk Offers Relief Against Constipation And Heartburn 

Because of hormonal changes, there can be several issues in women like heartburn, constipation, and indigestion.

Having a considerable dietary fiber content from coconut water can help in strengthening your digestive system, enhance digestion, regulate your pH levels, and control constipation. 

As per Ayurveda, coconut water is considered a potential laxative, and it’s prominent for improving metabolism and supporting the detoxification of mothers’ body.

Coconut water is a natural acid neutralizer and is an excellent cure for heartburn. The coconut milk is rich in iron which prevents Armenia. 

Plus, it includes good fats that foster the growth of the baby.

But, if you have gestational diabetics, remember moderating your intake as per the doctor’s advice and glucose levels. 

Also read: Can You Eat Octopus When Pregnant

2. Safety Ensured With Coconut Water

The food which is included in the don’t eat list during pregnancy are the ones that have the potential for bacterial growth.

This is why several mothers wonder if they are pasteurized (or even unpasteurized) coconut water and are safe to drink.

Fortunately, you can put your mind to ease. Several commercial forms of coconut water are pasteurized, which ensures the safety of every pregnant woman. 

Several non-pasteurized coconut glasses of water use a microfiltration process for removing bacterias and creating an infertile product.

Therefore, it is critical to keep them refrigerated and use them before the printed date expires.

In case you have some questions regarding their safety, connect with the manufacturer and clear your doubts. 

3. Provides Some Nutrients For The Development Of The Fetus

Everyone knows that vitamins and minerals are vital for the development of a baby.

Thus, getting the doctor’s recommendation on specific parental vitamins. To some extent, coconut water can add to the vitamins.

However, it varies from brand to brand, as the micronutrients include calcium, potassium, and magnesium. 

During the pregnancy phase, magnesium intake is linked to rising birth weight and decreasing the risk of preeclampsia.

Calcium is another vital nutrient to check upon. However, you need to be cautious as coconut water is not a micronutrient catch-all during pregnancy.

Even though coconut water comprises fewer minerals, you should concentrate on consuming a nutrient-dense diet rich in whole foods that offer macro and micronutrients for fetus development. 

Summary

Now you know about taking coconut water during pregnancy.

You must have seen several posts online which claim that coconut water isn’t likely to ensure health by erasing the stretch marks, curing constipation, and regulating mood swings.

However, when you enjoy it, you should stick a tiny umbrella in your glass and enjoy your drink! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which type of milk should you avoid when you are pregnant? 

When you consume milk, you should only have pasteurized or UHT (ultra-heat treated) milk.

In case only the raw milk is available to you, always boil it and then consume it.

Never drink unpasteurized goat’s or sheep’s milk, and never even eat cheese made from them. 

Coconut milk is pasteurized. Is it true? 

Coconut milk is pasteurized with UHT; even the canned coconut milk is pasteurized or sterilized well.

You can find several brands that offer pasteurized coconut milk. But make sure you keep a check on the ingredients and take the advice of the doctors. 

Is there any right time to drink coconut milk? 

Coconut milk, as experts believe, is very versatile, and you can consume it as it is, or even with your breakfast, or blend with smoothies, or use in soup or curry as it has a creamy texture and delicious taste.