Nutrition plays an important role in pregnancy. According to health professionals, consuming a healthy diet not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but also prevents the risk of birth defects. This is women are advised to make healthy food choices during pregnancy to ensure that their baby is getting all the nutrients needed to develop and gain a healthy amount of weight.
When talking about pregnancy food, it is recommended to eat fresh fruits, healthy fats, whole grains, dairy products, and vegetables. However, before adding any food to your diet during pregnancy, it is crucial to ensure that it is safe for your as well as your child’s health.
Eating Tomatoes in Pregnancy: Top 8 benefits
Tomatoes keep you hydrated: Did you know that tomatoes are almost 05% water? Yes, you read that right. Their high water content can keep you hydrated for a long time and prevent nausea or dehydration.
They enhance energy levels: Pregnant women often experience lethargy and weakness. Since tomatoes are rich in carbohydrates, they can boost your energy levels during pregnancy and help you remain active.
They are packed with nutrients: Tomatoes are an excellent source of Vitamins A and C and have numerous other minerals and proteins. They contain carbohydrates, fibre, folic acid and iron that are ideal for pregnant women.
They improve iron absorption: Another good advantage of eating tomatoes during pregnancy is that they increase the absorption of iron which leads to an improved blood supply. Iron is one of the most essential minerals that pregnant women should add to their diet as its deficiency can hamper the development and growth of the child.
Tomatoes prevent constipation: Pregnant women often experience constipation that can be very painful and uncomfortable. Having tomatoes can easily prevent constipation and enhance digestion because of the presence of fibre.
Reduces the risk of Preeclampsia: Did you know that pregnant women often suffer from Preeclampsia or hypertension, especially during the second trimester? Consuming a tomato-based diet during pregnancy can reduce the risk of Preeclampsia or at least manage the symptoms. Tomatoes contain potassium which improves the blood flow in the body and helps in controlling blood pressure.
Tomatoes are natural antiseptics: This may surprise you but according to health professionals, tomatoes act as a natural antiseptic because of the presence of Lycopene—a strong anti-oxidant that prevents the risk of birth defects in babies by protecting cell damage. This powerful anti-oxidant also plays a vital role in the healthy delivery of the child.
Easy tomato-based recipes that you are trying during pregnancy
Tomato soup
Ingredients needed:
- 3 tomatoes (properly chopped)
- Finely chopped onions (half a cup)
- Low-fat butter (half tablespoon)
- Sugar (two tablespoons)
- Black pepper (one tablespoon)
- Low-fat milk (half cup)
- Split yellow gram ( half cup)
- Water (4 cups)
How to make tomato soup:
- Take a non-stick saucepan and all the tomatoes, water, and split yellow gram.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes on medium heat until the tomatoes turn soft.
- Let the mixture cool down
- Grind the mixture to form a smooth liquid
- Take a pot, and add butter and onions. Fry them until they become light brown.
- Add the tomato mix, sugar, low-fat milk, and pepper. Mix properly.
- Let it boil for 10 minutes
- Serve hot with bread.
Cheese and Tomato Omelette
Ingredients needed:
- Eggs (two)
- Tomatoes (two-finely chopped)
- Low-fat butter or oil
- Low-fat cheddar cheese (25g)
- Salt and pepper
How to make cheese and tomato omelette:
- Beat the eggs in a bowl for 5-10 minutes
- Add the oil or butter to a frying pan and heat it
- Add the eggs to the pan and spread evenly all over
- Once the edges of the egg start to set, use a spatula to lift the edge and flip to ensure both sides of the egg are cooked
- Add tomatoes and cheese to one-half of the egg and fold it.
- Let the omelette cook for a few more minutes on medium heat
- Serve with brown bread.
FAQs
- Can I eat tomatoes during pregnancy?
Yes, tomatoes are high in iron and contain folate, vitamins A and C along with lycopene. They are safe to consume during pregnancy and can be healthy for both the mother as well as the child. You can add several tomato-based foods and liquids to your pregnancy diet such as tomato juice, and tomato soup or add them to your egg or salads.
2. Is it safe to eat tomato sauce during pregnancy?
Yes, you can consume tomato ketchup during pregnancy. However, always ensure that you are eating it in moderation because of the possible presence of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) in this food.
3. Are tomatoes good for pregnant women?
Tomatoes are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals which makes them a nutritious choice for pregnant women. Since they are 95% water and are rich in iron, they are ideal for women who have iron deficiency or need to stay hydrated.
