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Sugarcane juice is the liquid from squeezed sugarcane. Many places, particularly where sugarcane is farmed commercially, consider it as a beverage. One of the primary ingredients of rum is sugarcane juice, which is made by crushing peeled sugar cane in a mill.
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Nutritional benefits of sugarcane juice
Sugarcane juice has several health benefits since sugarcane is a rich source of fiber, phytonutrients, and antioxidants. Vitamins A, B1, B5, B3, B6, B2, and C are among the important vitamins it contains and are necessary for the immune system to function.
Below is a summarised information on sugarcane juice benefits:
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- High in protein: Sugarcane is a great source of protein, which is essential for you and your developing foetus.Â
- Prevents cavities and mouth odour: The high mineral content of sugarcane juice, such as calcium and phosphorus, fortifies and shields teeth enamel from deterioration. Nutrient deficiencies can cause foul breath, but the nutrients in sugarcane juice may help prevent it.
- Quick energy boost: To reestablish regular glucose release and replenish depleted blood sugar levels, sugarcane provides the body with the precise quantity of instantaneous energy to start your day.
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Is sugarcane juice safe for pregnant women?
Yes, it is safe without a doubt! Sugarcane juice contains high sugar levels that make it a natural energy booster and also helps with digestion and eases constipation because of its high fiber content.
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It's a great substitute for processed and artificial energy drinks, which are bad for our health. It’s pertinent to exercise moderation in consumption due to its high sugar level.Â
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However, sugarcane juice has a high sugar content, and pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes should avoid drinking sugarcane juice. Sugarcane juice lowers the body's risk of chronic illnesses and gets rid of free radicals. Aside from this, there are other numerous benefits contained in sugarcane juice.Â
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Health benefits of sugarcane juiceÂ
- Increases immunity: The high vitamin C content in sugarcane juice supports your immune system and keeps you well throughout pregnancy.
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- Treats cough and cold: When symptoms such as dehydration occur, sugarcane juice replenishes lost fluids because it naturally contains electrolytes. Considering that taking over-the-counter medicine while pregnant is not advised, it works well as a cure for coughs and colds.
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- Regulates bilirubin levels: High levels of biliverdin and bilirubin can put you at risk for gestational jaundice. By lowering blood bilirubin amounts, sugarcane promotes the best possible health for the liver and gallbladder.
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- Relief from acidity and congestion: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can frequently result in congestion and irritable bowel syndrome. Congestion can be relieved and bowel motions made easier with sugarcane juice. Because of its alkaline composition, it can also lessen acidity and help avoid heartburn when pregnant.
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- Promotes normal heart rate: Sugarcane juice is high in potassium and magnesium content which help improve blood pressure regulation and heart health in general during pregnancy.
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Potential side effects of sugarcane juice
Dehydration: Sugarcane juice contains a diuretic, which means it might cause an increase in urine production and consequent dehydration. Dehydration can be especially risky during pregnancy since it can result in issues like low amniotic fluid levels and premature labour.
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Risk of gestational diabetes: Due to the high sugar content of sugarcane juice, you are at a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes if you drink large quantities of sugar-filled beverages. High blood sugar levels brought on by this illness during pregnancy may cause difficulties for both the mother and the unborn child.
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Allergic reactions: Sugarcane or the additives used to prepare sugarcane juice may cause allergies in certain persons. When you consume sugarcane juice, you run the risk of developing allergic reactions that could be harmful to the unborn child and you.
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Risk of contamination: If sugarcane juice is not processed and stored correctly, it may get infected with dangerous germs. Food poisoning can result from consuming tainted juice, and it can be particularly dangerous when pregnant.
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Can pregnant women with gestational diabetes drink sugarcane juice?
During pregnancy, you should not consume sugarcane juice if you have diabetes or gestational diabetes. Seeking advice from a dietician and your gynaecologist is essential if you are at risk of developing gestational diabetes.
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Remember that the high sugar content and high glycemic load of sugarcane juice can have a big effect on blood sugar levels. It is not recommended for women with gestational diabetes to consume for the best blood sugar control.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is sugarcane juice safe in pregnancy?
Yes, it is, when taken in moderation. However, if you are at risk of having gestational diabetes, you shouldn't take sugarcane juice.
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Can I drink sugarcane juice in my third trimester?
When taken in moderation and from a clean, reliable source, sugarcane juice is generally safe to ingest during pregnancy, even during the third trimester.
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Does sugarcane increase blood sugar levels in pregnancy?
Yes, the high sugar content and high glycemic load of sugarcane juice can affect blood sugar levels.
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