Almonds during pregnancy - benefits, contraindications and risks of consumption

Chemical and vitamin composition of almonds

Man has been growing and consuming almonds for about 4 thousand years; references to this plant are found in the Old Testament. In 2018, global production of this nut amounted to an unprecedented 1.3 million tons. The product is popular and more and more in demand every year, and the secret of its success is simple. An excellent combination of pleasant taste and aromatic qualities with an extremely rich composition.

According to recent studies, almonds are the champion among thousands of food products studied in terms of the content of the most easily digestible combinations of water-soluble vitamins among themselves, water-soluble vitamins and proteins, fats and fat-soluble vitamins, and metals. Overall, the composition of nutrients in these nuts is impressive. 100 grams of nuts contain the daily recommended dose:

How many almonds can you eat per day?

Pregnancy can change your body’s reactions beyond recognition, so even if you previously ate almost kilograms of almonds, now you should forget about it.

Like any other “exotic” products, it must be gradually introduced into your diet, carefully monitoring the state of the body.

You can start with 1–2 nuts per day, eventually increasing their number to 10–15 per day. Using more than 20 cores can cause various side effects, so you shouldn't do it.

Important! During pregnancy,
only non-bitter almonds are allowed to be consumed, while bitter almonds are contraindicated at all stages.

Properties of almonds for the body of a pregnant woman

The nutrients in this nut, given their relatively high availability for absorption, have a beneficial effect on most physiological processes.

During pregnancy, the load on the expectant mother's body increases significantly, and the developing baby's nutritional needs also increase. Therefore, it is important to consume foods with high nutritional value during this period.

Why is it useful?

The answer to the question of how almonds can be useful for pregnant women is the abundance of antioxidant substances. They neutralize free radicals that can damage cell membranes and disrupt the functioning of cells, tissues and organs. This is especially important during the gestational period, when the baby’s organ systems are forming and actively developing.

Also, regular intake of a sufficient amount of protector substances reduces the negative consequences for a woman’s body, because it works in extreme mode. The abundance of oleic acid fats, one of the omega-9 unsaturated fatty acids, adds an important cosmetic bonus to the consumption of almonds during pregnancy - skin elasticity.

In the early stages

During this period of life, expectant mothers should be very attentive to their diet. Not only the provision of necessary nutrients, but also overall well-being depends on this. In the first trimester, pregnancy may be accompanied by toxicosis of varying severity.

In the absence of individual intolerance, almonds can serve well in this condition. 100 grams of these nuts contain 605 kcal, about 40 mcg of folate (folic acid, vitamin B9), a lot of protein and fiber.

Up to 12 weeks of pregnancy, the antioxidant properties of the product and its high nutritional value in small volumes are important, which makes its consumption convenient for toxicosis. Whether a pregnant woman can eat almonds in the early stages depends on whether there is an allergic reaction to it, and whether the woman is susceptible to developing allergies.

In the second trimester

The developing fetus significantly affects a woman's cardiovascular system. The minute volume of blood increases, the load on the heart increases. Another important point that the doctor in the antenatal clinic begins to closely monitor is the level of glucose in the blood.

To maintain the normal course of physiological processes, the need for magnesium and potassium, which are contained in almonds, increases. Magnesium corrects insulin sensitivity and helps maintain normal blood plasma viscosity. Potassium is an important element in maintaining intracellular electrolytic and acid balances and also takes part in regulating the functioning of the cardiac wiring system.

In the third trimester

The fetus uses the last weeks of pregnancy to accumulate iron in its body to meet the needs for the formation of a large number of red blood cells, after the transition to breathing with the lungs. The absorption of iron in the human digestive system is a rather difficult process. In particular, this is impossible without the presence of vitamins C and E, and sufficient levels of zinc are required for its use by red blood cell precursor cells.

Therefore, products such as almonds that combine these nutrients should become a mandatory part of the expectant mother's diet in the last weeks of pregnancy. In addition, the importance of magnesium and potassium increases, since late toxicosis may develop during this period. It is characterized by an increase in blood glucose levels and the development of edema.

Harm

Pregnant women can only eat varieties of sweet almonds, without experimenting with bitter almonds containing amygdalin. The main risk with sweet almonds is the possibility of developing allergic reactions. No matter how valuable this nut is, it should not be consumed contrary to the signals of the immune system.

In addition, exceeding the recommended doses, even without the development of an allergic response in the mother’s body, can provoke such reactions in the baby in the future.

What are almonds?

The exquisite taste of the nut has been familiar to humanity since ancient times. Many scientists and healers have been observing the body's reaction after eating almonds for a long time. Thanks to this, it began to be used not only as a food product, but also in cosmetology and medicine.

Today there are 2 main types of almonds. Among them:

• bitter;
• sweet.

In the first case, almond oil is produced from the kernels. It contains a large amount of nutrients, which makes the product much cleaner and healthier than regular vegetable oil.

Sweet almonds can be eaten immediately. The main thing is to clean it properly and follow all storage rules so that the product remains fresh and healthy for the human body for a long time.

Almonds contain many vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. Thanks to this, this product can be confidently distinguished from other types of nuts known today. If you consume almond kernels within acceptable limits every day, the human body will be saturated with all the necessary nutrients that will ensure its normal functioning.

How to Choose the Best Almonds When Purchasing

It is best to choose unprocessed whole almonds, as they retain the entire range of valuable nutrients. The shell protects the nut from the penetration of microorganisms, mold and sunlight.

If the choice is limited to a purified product, then you should give preference to non-heat-treated options that retain the antioxidant-rich skin. It is worth assessing the color, friability and, if possible, the smell of nuts. Also carefully study the expiration dates and conditions of actual and recommended storage.

Roasted almonds lose more nutrients, but are more easily digestible. And of course, you shouldn’t indulge yourself with illusions about the benefits of a product coated with sugar or confectionery icing.

Contraindications and precautions

To ensure that the nut you eat is beneficial and not harmful, you need to follow some recommendations:

• Only ripe nuts are suitable for food. Greens can harm both mother and fetus, causing poisoning;
• almonds are an allergen, so if you are prone to allergies, it is better to avoid them;
• if you experience rapid weight gain while eating nut kernels, discard them or reduce the dose to a minimum;
• if a woman in the position has a rapid heartbeat, then the product should be completely excluded from the diet;
• bitter almonds can trigger the production of potassium cyanide in the body;
• When choosing a product in a store, look at the condition of the shell. It must be intact, without mold. There should be no foreign smell;
• if you like roasted nuts, then it should be prepared by dry roasting, without oil.

Find out how to eat nuts during pregnancy: walnuts, pine.

How to store almonds

The high oil content in nuts does not allow them to be stored in the open sun and with free access to air. Fats derived from oleic acid quickly oxidize and are destroyed by ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, the best option is a tightly closed dark container, or a zip bag.

In addition, depending on the degree of processing of the nuts, there may be a risk of mold development. Based on this, the best place to store almonds would be either a dark, dry place in the kitchen if the nut is in shell, or a shelf on the refrigerator door if it is shelled.

Purchase rules

All products that are intended for the expectant mother must be selected especially carefully and carefully, since at the beginning of such an “interesting situation” both organisms (both the woman and her unborn baby) are especially vulnerable.

It is better for pregnant women to buy unshelled almonds, hermetically packaged by the manufacturer (the packaging should indicate that this product has not been processed and no preservatives have been used).

Of course, the question of whether you need to buy only fresh product or whether you can not pay much attention to the condition of the nuts should not arise at all. Nuts, like other products, can spoil, as evidenced by the characteristic smell of dampness and unattractive appearance (the presence of mold and cracked shells).

Of course, such instances should be avoided, especially if you are expecting a child.

Unripe nuts are also quite dangerous, since they can cause poisoning with all the unpleasant consequences of intoxication of the body, and already peeled almonds, moreover, may be covered with dust and other harmful particles.

When purchasing fried kernels, it is better to give preference to the option that has undergone the dry roasting stage, that is, without the presence of oil.

Did you know? In Switzerland, almonds are placed in a pie for Christmas, and whoever gets it in the New Year will receive a monetary gain. It is difficult to say how true this is, but traditions are traditions.

Benefits and harms

Experts believe that it is advisable to consume almond kernels during pregnancy at different stages. Thanks to its diverse vitamin and mineral composition, the nut has many beneficial properties for expectant mothers.

Did you know? The Spaniards and Portuguese celebrate a special holiday every year - Almond Blossom Day.

In the early stages

A common problem encountered in early pregnancy is the threat of spontaneous miscarriage. The presence of vitamin E in nuts helps reduce the likelihood of miscarriage and maintain the normal course of pregnancy.

A number of acids are indispensable for the normal formation of the placenta and tissue regeneration. Iron, by increasing hemoglobin, improves blood circulation, thereby relieving expectant mothers of headaches and vomiting.

Minerals such as zinc, phosphorus and vitamin B9 are extremely important for the mother's body in the early stages.

Second trimester

The substances contained in almonds activate intensive cell division, which is extremely important for slow fetal development. Vitamins and antioxidants regulate the psycho-emotional state of a pregnant woman and normalize her sleep. The nut also has a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal tract, helps fight constipation, and acts as a choleretic agent.

Important! Before starting to eat almonds, a pregnant woman should consult her doctor so that unforeseen situations do not arise.

Third trimester

Vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates and fatty acids are necessary for the normal formation of fetal bones and brain. In addition, the nut regulates blood cholesterol levels and normalizes blood pressure. A few crushed almond kernels will help get rid of heartburn.

Usage options

It is best to consume whole, raw almonds. It can also be added to fruit salads, milk or protein shakes, and yoghurts.

Sources

• https://lifegid.com/bok/3109-mindal-pri-beremennosti-poleznye-svoystva-i-vred.html
• https://mojnoli.ru/beremennost/mindal-beremennym.html
• https://NutsExpert.ru/mindal/chem-polezen-mindal-pri-beremennosti.html
• https://fb.ru/article/282046/mojno-li-est-mindal-pri-beremennosti-mindal-poleznyie-svoystva-i-protivopokazaniya
• https://vsepolezno.com/mindal/mozhno-li-kushat-beremennym/
• https://VseProRebenka.ru/beremennost/eda/mindal-pri-beremennosti.html
• https://beremennuyu.ru/polza-i-vred-mindalya-pri-beremennosti-mozhno-li-est-orehi-mindal-vo-vremya-beremennosti
• https://uroki4mam.ru/mindal-pri-beremennosti
• https://zaletela.net/shto-mozhno-vo-vremja-beremennosti/mindal-pri-beremennosti.html
• https://zdv.su/mindal-pri-beremennosti-poleznye-svojstva/

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Negative influence

Some women are prohibited from eating this nut at all or reduce its quantity to a minimum. Why is that?

Almonds should be consumed little by little during pregnancy, as excessive amounts can lead to dizziness and act like a mild narcotic. Like other food products, this nut in exceptional cases can harm a pregnant woman. Eating unripe almonds can lead to severe poisoning. Depending on how many nuts were eaten, the poisoning will be so severe. During pregnancy, the body's reaction to different stimuli and foods changes. An allergic reaction to this type of nut may appear or worsen.

Almonds during pregnancy are contraindicated for women who have gained weight during this period. Since it is a very high-calorie food product, it will contribute to greater weight gain. Rapid heartbeat or problems with the cardiovascular system are two more contraindications for use.

All about almond oil during pregnancy

Are almonds good for pregnancy? It has now become clear. But is it possible to use almond oil while pregnant? Almond oil is made from both types of nuts - sweet and bitter. Only products made from sweet almonds can be consumed as human food. Bitter nut oil is used today in cosmetology or aromatherapy.

Pregnancy should in no way be considered a period of experimenting with your body and health. Therefore, before using the product internally or externally, you should always consult your doctor. What is allowed to be taken during normal conditions may be prohibited during pregnancy. Fresh oil or almonds can cause allergies or other health problems. And this is unacceptable during pregnancy.

How can you use almond oil during pregnancy?

1. During active growth in the womb, the skin of the chest and abdomen is forced to stretch greatly. All this causes the appearance of scars on the body, which almond oil will help to successfully cope with. Due to the high content of fatty acids in the product, moisture is retained in the skin. And vitamins help increase blood circulation and normalize regenerative processes. All this prevents the formation of stretch marks.
2. In the last months of pregnancy, oil can be rubbed into the nipple area, which prevents the formation of cracks. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, it will be possible to quickly get rid of the disease, as well as overcome unpleasant symptoms.
3. For hemorrhoids, which often make themselves felt during pregnancy, doctors advise doing sitz baths. They can relieve unpleasant symptoms and also have a wound healing effect.
4. By adding oil to water while taking a bath, you can calm the central nervous system and also have a beneficial effect on the general condition of the body.
5. Due to a shift in the center of gravity during active growth of the abdomen, lower back pain appears. To get rid of them, you need to massage them daily using almond oil. Thanks to him, the procedure will be more efficient and effective.
6. Due to the deterioration of the condition of nails and hair, oil is added to shampoos and used for nail baths. This will help normalize their condition, saturate them with useful substances, and also avoid dryness. However, even when taken externally, before using the product, you need to ask your doctor about all the intricacies of the procedure.

Video: benefits of almonds