During pregnancy, what one consumes is of utmost importance for the benefit of a mother’s health and the growing baby. Different preferences occur during pregnancy, especially when preventing morning sickness, nausea and other bodily changes that come with pregnancy.

 

 

 It is not uncommon to find yourself gravitating towards weird cravings and prefer to substitute proper meals with other dietary supplements.  However, scrutinize whatever you eat to avoid abnormalities during delivery. 

 

 

One such supplement that studies have shown to be overused by pregnant women is Kola nut. Whether or not this is great for their health, we will find out in the course of this article.

 

 

What is kola nut?

Kolanut, also known as Cola nitida, is a nut indigenous to West Africa but has spread across North Africa. It has an astringent and bitter taste when chewed fresh and only becomes milder when dried. Its extract is classified as a natural food flavouring and approved by the Food and Drug Agency as an inactive ingredient in certain pharmaceuticals.

 

 

 It plays an important role in sociocultural ceremonies, hospitality and festivals. It is also used in producing drugs. Kolanut contains certain minerals and vitamins that may benefit pregnancy.

 

 

Some of these nutrients include;

• Caffeine(2-3.5%)
• Theobromine(1-2.5%)
• Epicathein
• Theophylline
• Tannins
• D-Catechin
• Phlobaphens
• Carbohydrates
• Potassium 
• Magnesium 
• Calcium
• Sugar
• Water

 

 

Health benefits of kola nut during pregnancy 

 

Short-term relief of exhaustion and physical fatigue: Kola nut contains caffeine, which stimulates the central nervous system, the heart, and muscles.

 

 

Reduces nausea and morning sickness: Research on some pregnant women who resorted to chewing kola nuts as a relief for nausea proved effective. However, this differs in individuals.

 

 

It may increase blood circulation: The caffeine and theobromine in the kola nut may speed up the heart rate, which increases blood circulation.

 

 

Boosts energy level: The caffeine content helps to stimulate the central nervous system, thereby increasing alertness.

 

 

However, despite the many benefits of kola nut, it is high in caffeine content. When consumed in the same amount as found in food, kola nut can be said to be possibly safe during pregnancy. Excessive intake is considered unsafe. The limit should not exceed 300 mg of caffeine daily.

 

Side effects of kola nut in pregnancy 

The side effects of kola nut are mostly linked to the caffeine content. Although adverse reactions differ in persons, excessive consumption of caffeine and nicotine-containing substances can pose health problems. Some of these side effects include but not limited to;

• Insomnia and restlessness
• Bowel irritation
• Increased heart rate and respiration
• Overstimulation and locomotive effects
• High blood pressure 
• Substance addiction
• Allergic reactions to some chemical compounds
• Nausea 

 

**There is also a risk of a miscarriage, especially in the first trimester of consumed excessively due to the caffeine content. 

 

 

Does kola nut help suppress morning sickness and nausea?

Morning sickness, also known as nausea, is a common symptom of pregnancy that mainly occurs during the first trimester but can also stretch throughout the whole pregnancy in some women.

 

Despite the name, morning sickness can be prevalent at any hour of the day. It loosely refers to the strong urge to vomit. Many pregnant women resort to ingesting any substance that can relieve nausea during this period, including kola nut.

 

 

Kola nut contains caffeine, and this compound serves as a repellent to nausea. If morning sickness is your primary reason for opting for kola nut, You may want to substitute or practice the following;

 

• Getting adequate rest
• Take fresh air
• Drinking enough fluids may help.
• Eating a bland but rich protein diet
• Eating fruits like watermelon.

 

 

Myth or Fact: Can kola nut damage an unborn baby’s brain?

Evidence in studies suggests that kola nut alters the brain formation of an unborn baby and could most likely cause toxic effects on the mother, too, especially during the first trimester. The baby’s brain, especially at the stage of development, is highly susceptible to abnormalities resulting from any chemical reaction or unwholesome ingestion.

 

Research demonstrates that a kola nut, administered repeatedly at certain doses during pregnancy, disrupts normal cerebellar development and may cause an impairment of the motor neuron.

 

Despite the great benefits of certain food substances or medicinal plants, some foods shouldn’t be consumed even at low doses, especially during critical developmental periods, due to the possibility of causing alterations.

 

 

The excess consumption of caffeine is not generally suitable for human health. You should steer clear of kola nuts until you’re done weaning your baby.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)

Can I eat kola nuts for morning sickness?

Kola nut may help to manage morning sickness, but you may wish to check for other alternatives or check with your dietician.

 

Can I eat kola nuts as a pregnant woman?

Eating kola nut is not bad during pregnancy but should be consumed in moderation.

 

Does kola nut affect an unborn baby during pregnancy?

Given the delicateness of the developing fetus, chemical substances tend to cause an impediment in the development of the unborn baby.

 

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