Pregnancy is a beautiful journey in every woman's life. It's also a period where pregnant women should scrutinise everything that goes into their digestive system. This is largely because their immune system is vulnerable and may open a channel for infections and bacterial buildup. Hence maintaining a healthy diet is recommended.

 

 

Ginger also known as zingibar officinale is a flowery plant that is considered as a herb. It’s an age-long herb used in traditional teas, herbs, and medicines. It's known for its strong scent and taste. Its zesty flavour makes it an excellent addition to spices in meals. 

 

 

Every part of ginger is consumable. The roots are great for morning sickness and the body acts as a sweetener in energy drinks, fruit drinks, and sweets.

 

 

Is ginger safe in pregnancy?

Ginger is safe for consumption in pregnancy. However, it is recommended for pregnant women to consume raw ginger in moderation due to the presence of two active compounds known as Shogaol and Gingerol which aren't safe in high consumption for pregnant women. 

 

 

 

 

Health benefits of ginger during pregnancy

Ginger contains various antioxidants to protect pregnant mums and their growing baby. Here are a few benefits of ginger in pregnancy:

 

• Helps with morning sickness: Morning sickness affects a significant amount of pregnant women. It may range from mild nausea to severe vomiting. Compounds like gingerols, bisabolene, and zingiberol have scientifically been found to reduce morning sickness and nausea.

 

• Aid digestion: Ginger is a well-known natural remedy for stomach discomfort. Studies have shown that ginger aids bowel movement which stimulates foods to move faster and prevent bloating.

 

• Helps manage cold and catarrh: The antimicrobial properties in ginger boost the immune system and help pregnant women recover faster. 

 

• Manages inflammation: The compounds in ginger are known to be anti-inflammatory. While inflammation to a degree is found to be normal in pregnancy, excess inflammation may predispose some pregnant women to potential harm. 

 

• Helps to lower cholesterol levels: Ginger contains salicylate which whine thins the blood and supplies blood to the developing baby. It also contains activated enzymes that help to increase the usage of cholesterol in the body. 

 

 

How to use ginger in pregnancy

There are various ways to include ginger in your diet directly and indirectly. Some of them include:

• Infuse ginger in water and soak to make ginger water
• Add ginger and lemon to water and brew to make ginger tea
• Add ginger to stews and sauces
• Add ginger, lemon, and honey to soothe a sore throat

 

 

Are there side effects of taking ginger in pregnancy?

Consuming fresh or dried ginger in moderation is safe. Do not exceed 1 gram of ginger in a day. Some pregnant women noticed heavy bleeding after consumption of ginger. However, much research is still ongoing on this. 

 

Ginger in pregnancy has myriad uses. You can consume it as a tea, add it to your cooking as a spice, and use it as a medication for cold and flu. It is essential to maintain moderation during consumption. 

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I take prenatal ginger supplements?

Ginger-infused prenatal supplements are safe. Ensure to speak with your doctor before making the purchase.

 

1. How much ginger can I take in a day?

It is recommended to take 1 gram of fresh ginger per day. 

 

1. Can I take ginger gummies?

Ginger-infused prenatal gummies are safe for consumption during pregnancy.

 

 

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