Ingesting lemon during pregnancy can bring several benefits to both the baby’s health and the mother’s well-being.
If you are expecting a baby, you have undoubtedly heard that lemon during pregnancy brings numerous benefits to the functioning of the body, right? But, after all, is this myth or truth?
Well, the good news is that, as it is a fruit rich in vitamin C, consuming lemon during pregnancy is very beneficial, as well as safe and effective. However, it is important that this intake is done correctly, without exaggeration, because anything when consumed in larger quantities than necessary can cause serious problems.
Furthermore, are you curious to know more about the benefits and the correct way to take lemon during pregnancy? So, continue here to check it out.
Benefits of lemon during pregnancy
Improves the absorption of iron from food
The presence of iron in pregnant women is essential for the good development of the fetus and to combat anemia. Therefore, it is important that, in addition to eating foods rich in the vitamin, pregnant women have the habit of ingesting lemon. In fact, the fruit helps the body absorb the iron found in food.
Relief from nausea
We couldn’t help but talk about the nausea that happens, especially during the first months of pregnancy. A great option to alleviate these symptoms is to drink a few drops of lemon with water, early in the morning, on an empty stomach.
Regulates the intestine
That old story that it’s normal for pregnant women to have a cold is still a myth! In fact, if you have difficulty going to the bathroom during pregnancy, it is very important to include a glass of lemon juice in your routine, as the fruit helps regulate intestinal transit.
Lemon during pregnancy – Alkalizes the body
Lemon during pregnancy helps keep the body’s pH levels balanced and also maintains the pregnant woman’s alkalinity, relieving symptoms of acidosis.
Therefore, try to drink a glass of water with a few drops of lemon every day, to preserve the body’s alkaline levels and help with the baby’s development.
Makes labor easier
Drinking lemon juice with honey makes the birth process easier. However, it is recommended that intake begins in the 5th month of pregnancy and that, before including the fruit in the diet, it is important to consult your gynecologist.
It’s good for baby’s bones
Lemon, being rich in magnesium and calcium, improves the baby’s health and development. Furthermore, it also provides these benefits for mom.
Lemon during pregnancy – Improves blood pressure
Drinking water with lemon during pregnancy improves blood pressure and strengthens blood vessels, keeping them flexible. Furthermore, the fruit also reduces blood cholesterol levels.
Prevents infections
Lemon is rich in diuretic properties, therefore, it is beneficial for maintaining healthy kidney functions, thus preventing urogenital infections.
Lemon during pregnancy – Relieves swelling in the feet
Swollen feet during pregnancy, also known as edema, are very common. So, to alleviate this uncomfortable and painful condition, it is recommended that pregnant women drink lemon water every day, as it relieves pain and helps reduce swelling in the feet.
Has antioxidant action
According to the book Super Drinks for Pergnancy by Fiona Wilcock, it is believed that consuming lemon juice, when consumed regularly, can help remove toxins from the body, that is, it has antioxidant action.
Increases immunity
Because it is rich in vitamin C, lemon helps improve the body’s immunity and fights viruses and bacteria. In addition, it also helps prevent infections such as flu, colds and fevers.
How to prepare lemon water? +Tips
Choose a healthy, ripe lemon, cut it in half and extract the juice from one of the parts. Add a glass of water and you’re done. Note: if you find it too acidic, you can sweeten the mixture with honey or brown sugar.
Furthermore, before including lemon juice in your routine, it is important that you talk to your doctor, as in some cases the use of the fruit can cause problems such as heartburn.
Furthermore, it is important to gargle after drinking water with lemon, as the fruit can cause stains and dental problems.
So, what did you think of this article? Take the opportunity to also check out: Lemon in the fridge – How to store, preserve and consumption time.
Sources: Andreia Friques, Informe Brasil.
Image sources: Naver, Pinterest, Casa Tips, Grow Magazine.
