9 Benefits of Eating Bitter Gourd During Pregnancy

Bitter gourd (or Karela)  is a mid-sized vegetable that is bitter in taste. As it is known, bitter gourd is packed with several vitamins, minerals, and other antioxidants, which are considered great during pregnancy. In short, it is a powerhouse of nutrients and has several added benefits for pregnant women.

Is it safe to eat bitter gourd during pregnancy?

Bitter gourd is jam-packed with numerous nutrients, making it one of the best vegetables to consume during pregnancy. It contains zinc, iron, potassium, and magnesium, all of which are crucial during pregnancy. Additionally, it boasts high levels of vitamins A, C, and B (B1, B2, and B3). Moreover, it is rich in dietary fibres that aid in regulating bowel movements. Furthermore, bitter gourd, or karela, is known to have a low glycemic index, helping to regulate blood sugar levels. This makes it an excellent choice for women with gestational diabetes.

Bitter gourds are also believed to contain anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory components that benefit both the mother and the developing foetus. However, it is advisable to consume bitter gourd in moderation, as excessive intake may lead to digestive discomfort and other side effects. Therefore, we can conclude that consuming bitter gourd in limited quantities is safe for pregnant women.

Benefits of eating bitter gourd during pregnancy

Here are some of the benefits of eating bitter gourd during pregnancy -

1. Higher Fibre Content: Bitter gourd is packed with fibre, which curbs excessive cravings. This reduction in cravings for junk or high-calorie foods helps keep pregnant women healthy, fit, and slim during pregnancy. Additionally, it promotes heart health by trapping cholesterol-rich acids in the digestive system and reduces the risk of preeclampsia. 
2. High Folate Content: Folate is a vital requirement for pregnant women because it promotes foetal development by aiding in the creation of new cells, DNA, and RNA material. It also safeguards the newborn from potential neural tube defects and significant congenital disabilities, such as spina bifida and anencephaly, which affect the spine and brain, respectively.
3. Anti-Diabetic: Pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes. Therefore, it is advisable for them to consume bitter gourd frequently. Bitter gourd contains an insulin-like compound known as hypoglycemic proteins, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. It also contains other nutrients, such as charantin and polypeptide-P, which assist in preventing gestational diabetes.
4. Boosts Immune System: Maintaining a strong immune system during pregnancy is essential. Bitter gourd is rich in vitamins and minerals, including phytochemicals, that are necessary for a healthy pregnancy. It boasts a high vitamin C content, which enhances the immune system and aids in better iron absorption.
5. Prevents Infection: Bitter gourd has antimicrobial properties that help in fighting off and preventing infections naturally. Additionally, it possesses anti-inflammatory properties that reduce and prevent further damage caused by infections. Furthermore, consuming bitter gourd helps boost the immune system, enabling the body to continue defending against foreign materials that might lead to complications during pregnancy.
6. Reduce Digestive Disorder: Constipation and haemorrhoids are two major complications faced by several pregnant women. The fibre content in the vegetable helps alleviate these conditions. Bitter gourds also support healthy gut bacteria, thereby improving digestion and nutrient absorption. Moreover, bitter gourd is low in calories, carbohydrates, and fat, facilitating weight management.
7. Contains Nutrients Required by the Foetus: Bitter gourd contains all the necessary nutrients for a growing foetus, including iron, niacin, potassium, zinc, manganese, magnesium, pyridoxine, and pantothenic acid, among others. It also provides calcium, essential for the proper development of the foetus's bones, making it an excellent choice for promoting the healthy growth and development of the foetus.
8. Improves Bowel Movement: Constipation is a common complication of pregnancy, often causing discomfort and pain. Due to its richness in dietary fibre and its promotion of peristalsis, bitter gourd can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation during pregnancy.
9. Perfect Source of Other Nutrients: In addition to the mentioned nutrients, bitter gourd also contains riboflavin, thiamine, and vitamin B, as well as beta-carotene. Beta-carotene in bitter gourd contributes to lung development in the foetus and helps reduce the risk of Vitamin A toxicity

Conclusion

Bitter gourd can be eaten as a salad, stir-fried, boiled, or added to stews and soups. The best part is that it is widely available in local grocery shops. Sometimes, doctors prescribe bitter gourd in supplement forms. Ensure that you follow the doctor's advice and take the supplements as instructed. This is because overconsumption might cause several side effects, such as premature labour and digestive issues like diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Overall, it is a great source of vitamins and minerals required for both the mother and the foetus.

Also, it must be noted that if someone has not tried eating bitter gourd before, they should avoid consuming it during pregnancy as well. This is because it might cause cramps, gastritis, and gut issues. So, it is always advisable to seek a doctor's recommendation on what to eat and what to avoid during pregnancy.