Botapreneur

Foods, Fruits And Drinks That Aid Digestion

2 Comments / Health & Wellness, Nutrition / Botapreneur

Digestion is the process by which food is broken down into smaller components that can be absorbed by the body. However, on several occasions, this prove difficult in the body as a result of many things. This is the situation in which we say the body is experiencing indigestion. Indigestion also known as dyspepsia refers to discomfort or pain that occurs in the upper abdomen, often after eating or drinking can happen when the body has difficulty in digesting what has been taken. Indigestion is a common happening to majority. Common causes of indigestion include: 1) Overeating, eating on a rush or late night eating. 2) Eating fatty, greasy or spicy foods. 3) Intake of too much of caffeine, alcohol, chocolate or carbonated beverages. 4) Effects of the usage of some medications. 5) Health conditions 6) Stress 7) Lack of sleep. Symptoms of indigestion include: 1) Stomach pain or bloating 2) Heartburn nausea 3) Vomiting 4) Burning sensation in the stomach or esophagus 5) Excessive gas or belching. 6) Inability to eat. 7) Inability to pass stool. Although indigestion can be cured by embarking on simple lifestyle changes like ensuring portion control of food, sleeping well, avoiding alcohol, not eating late at night, etc but on the other hand, there are some people that will/might still experience indigestion as a result of their slow metabolic rate. On that note, there are foods that actually enhances or aids easy digestion that should be included in our diets on the right proportions. These include: 1) Vegetables: This is my number one go to remedy for easy digestion. Vegetables are good sources of insoluble fiber which helps to quicken the pace of digestion. Vegetables are also good sources of magnesium which help relieve constipation by relaxing the digestive tracts and pull water into the intestines to make faeces softer and easier to poo. They are also rich in nutrients like folate, vitamin C, vitamin K and vitamin A. 2) Whole Grains: Whole grains have been known to enhance digestion to promoting. Grains (also known as cereals) are the edible seeds of some grasses. For a grain to be called whole grain, it must contain 100% of the kernel including the bran, germ and endosperm. Example of whole grain includes oats, quinoa, brown rice, and millet. Whole grains are rich in fiber which aid or improve digestion. 3) Ginger Ginger aids digestion and prevent nausea. Like I said in one of my recent post on Ginger, I mentioned that I love to take it as tea. Click here to read more about ginger and ginger tea. Ginger also reduces the risk of heartburn, nausea and stomach discomfort. 4) Coconuts: Coconuts are also high in fiber which helps bulk up the stool and supports bowel regularity. Recently, I ate coconut and I found myself using the toilet. It was as if the coconuts washed my stomach 😂. 5) Citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruit: They contain less fructose making them easier to tolerate and less likely to cause gas. 6) Bananas: Bananas are another low fructose fruit that also contain fiber. They also contain inulin, a substance that enhances the growth of good bacteria in the gut. 7) Apple: Apple contain pectin which increase the bulk of stool and movement through the digestive tract. 8) Lemongrass Tea: Lemongrass tea has been shown to help soothe the stomach and keep digestive functions in check. Lemongrass contains a compound called citral which has anti-inflammatory properties which also makes it effective against bloating invariably aiding digestion. 9) Water: Water is still the number one best drink that aids digestion. Before I will even think of vegetables or any other thing that will enhances digestion, I would have taken enough water to an extent. When you are experiencing indigestion, the very first and most accessible thing to take is water. Some people experience indigestion just because they don’t take enough water. Click here to read more on why water is essential in the body. Drink plenty water in addition to taking high fibre foods. Remember that your high fibre foods are also meant to be taken in moderation and right quantity.

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A Healthy Life – Whats Does It Means To Live A Healthy Life

Leave a Comment / General Health, Health & Wellness / Botapreneur

Generally speaking, it is very easy to say one is healthy when the person is free from sicknesses. Right? However, may I inform or remind you again that being healthy is not just about being physically fine alone. The fact that you see someone free from headache or any disease means the person is free from sicknesses. Being healthy cuts across all areas of life and they are interwoven. Someone that is physically fine and not emotionally stable is not healthy. Someone that is emotionally sound and not spiritually standing is not healthy. In fact, being healthy starts with being healthy in our SOULS. 3 John 2 says 👇 ” Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth” (KJV) Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well (NIV). Dear friend, I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit(NLT). Beloved, I pray that in every way you may succeed and prosper and be in good health [physically], just as [I know] your soul prospers [spiritually] (AMP). This writer said that he wished we are in good health EVEN AS/JUST AS our SOULS (spiritual lives) prosper. THIS SIMPLY MEANS THE DEGREE AT WHICH YOUR SOUL PROSPERS IS HOW HEALTHY YOU WILL BE. Most times, we are so quick to quote this verse without thinking deep about the condition “EVEN AS”. The question we should ask ourselves is ARE OUR SOULS PROSPERING? Are we so confident that we can tell God that we want to be physically healthy at the degree at which our souls are prospering? HOW DO WE ENSURE THAT OUR SOULS PROSPER? 1) BY CONSTANT PRAYING. Praying can never be put asides or overly spoken of. A sustained communication with God deepens our relationship and intimacy with Him. And we all know that prayer is the avenue through which we get to communicate with God. Let me share a personal example here: Some days back, I was really afraid. Some things were making me afraid. The fear was so palpable that I could almost literally feel it with my hands. And it was stylishly affecting my efficiency. It got to a point and I started praying and casting out the spirit of fear. And guess what? It worked. I felt an unusual rest and peace after the prayers. Do you know that if the fear in my heart wasn’t dealt with, it would cause me to be mentally disorganized. Before you know it, one will start running temperature and maybe start developing high blood pressure. But PRAYING about the situation settled it all. So, PRAYING is an essential to ensuring that our soul prospers. 2) STUDYING OF THE SCRIPTURES. This goes hand in hand with praying. None of them can work in isolation. If you are fervent in praying and you are not grounded in the Word of God through studying, then you are not prospering in your soul and vice versa. 3) SING: Singing helps keep the soul in perfect harmony. Sing Psalms. Sing Praises. 4) FELLOWSHIPPING WITH OTHER BELIEVERS: The Bible says NOT FORSAKING THE ASSEMBLY OF BELIEVERS. Being among like minded people helps us grow and stay healthy. Now that we have looked at ways by which our soul prospers so that we can be in good health, let us look at some basic things we need to as well 1) DRINKING ENOUGH WATER: Drinking water can never be over emphasized. Not drinking enough water is a veryyyy bad habit oooo. And truth is that many are caught in this web of not drinking water. There are more to just taking water. Do you know there are some sicknesses that can be prevented/cure just by drinking water? Drinking water will naturally prevent or flush out kidney stones. Kidneys are the body’s filtration system but they require a copious amount of water to do their job properly and flush unwanted toxins out. Without proper hydration, the kidneys become unable to filter the blood properly, and you risk all kinds of hilarious nasties, from kidney stones to disease. Please, don’t always wait till you are thirsty before you drink water. Water your life well everyday 🤗. Read: Health Benefits of Drinking Water 2) SLEEPING WELL: Lack of sleep can be very dangerous. Let us endeavour to always find time to sleep well. We need nothing less than 6 hours sleep daily. Good sleep boosts the immune system, enhances mood and improve concentration. Sleeping well is essentially needed to live healthily. 3) EXERCISE: This is one underrated activity human being engage in 😂. Most times, people that lose weight or those in sports are the ones that tend to exercise more. And this ought not to be so. Do you know that exercising helps relieve stress and depression? Yes, it does. Exercising boosts the immune system and strengthens the bone. Exercising also prevents lots of diseases. Exercising helps to keep fit and remain healthy. And the truth is you don’t even have to go to the gym before you can exercise. There are simple home workouts that you can do. There are lots of apps and even YouTube videos that can serve as guides. Do you know that walking itself is a form of exercise. Instead of taking that #50 taxi, you can decide to trek instead. I recently got across a WALKING AT HOME YouTube channel by Leslie Sansone and it’s been super amazing. Very soon, I will also love to add running to my exercise routine 🤗. Let us make exercising a lifestyle. It might not be easy initially but once you get used to it, it becomes much easier and enjoyable. 4) BALANCED DIET/MINDFUL EATING: Recently, I’ve come to realize that it’s not because God has not blessed us with good health. It’s just

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Health Benefits of Ginger and Ginger Tea

5 Comments / Plants/Herbs & Spices / Botapreneur

Ginger happens to be one of the top and readily accessible spices you will find in every home and restaurant. Personally, if I have not added ginger powder to my food or blend the root with my food, it would literally be as if something is wrong with the food 😂. There is a special feeling I have from just adding ginger to my food. Most times, I use it hand-in-hand with turmeric. Ginger belongs to the Zingiberaceae family and it’s closely related to turmeric, cardamom, and galangal. It is botanical called Zingiber officinale. Asides the taste and flavour ginger adds to foods, it has long been used in history for traditional and alternative medicine. The main bioactive compound in ginger that enhances its medicinal properties is GINGEROL. Ginger can be used in fresh, dried or powdered form. It can also be processes to extract oil from it. The most thing I love to do with ginger is taking it in form of tea and the tea is easy to make as well. You can either make your own ginger tea at home or buy already packaged ones. To prepare ginger tea by yourself, all you need to do is either grate or slice fresh ginger into a boiling water. Allow to infuse for few seconds and pour the ginger tea into your cup. You can then add honey to taste. And viola, your ginger tea is ready. Also, you can decide to dry your ginger, grind into powder and packaged in tea bags by yourself. This is the picture of the ginger tea I prepared few days ago. The product I bought was Kelita. I also have ginger roots and prepare the time by myself most of the times. However, if you don’t want to go through the stress of preparing or packaging the tea by yourself, you can buy already packaged ones. Note: You need to check the ingredients to be sure the products you are buying have not been mixed with refined sugar. Especially if you are taking the tea in order to lose weight or you diabetic. You can buy the ones that have been flavoured with honey instead. Some also add lemon to their products. Click here to read why refined sugar is not so good for you. So, you can just buy the packaged ginger tea in any supermarket or online. You can check Amazon, Jumia or any other online store. All you need to do when you are ready to drink is steep a tea bag into a cup of warm water. Ginger tea can be consumed at any time of day. Personally, I love to take it after meal as it aids digestion. At this point, let me intimate you with some of the amazing health benefits of ginger and ginger tea. Note: Since ginger tea is made from ginger, they automatically have the same health benefits. 1) Ginger Tea aids digestion. This is the number one reason why I love taking ginger tea. It prevents bloating and constipation. This is one of the reasons why If you are trying to lose weight, ginger tea should be your favourite drink and not carbonated drink. 2) Ginger tea helps to relieve pain, including menstrual pain. My fellow female, before you grab that pain relief drug, try taking a cup of warm ginger tea instead. Also, you can soak a towel in warm ginger tea and apply it to your lower abdomen. This process is called compresses. 3) Ginger tea contains nutrients like vitamin B3 and B6, iron, potassium, vitamin C, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc and is low in calories. 4) Ginger tea helps to control sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes. 5) Ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties. So, taking ginger tea can help treat inflammations. 6) Ginger tea can be used to treat nausea and also prevents cold. However, it is needful to note that as much as ginger tea is healthy, it should not be taken excessively daily. Ensure you always dilute the tea with enough water if you find it too strong. Some people may experience side effects from drinking ginger tea such as heartburn if taken in large concentrated form. Also, it is advisable for pregnant women to stay clear from taking ginger tea. Even though research says ginger tea helps with nausea that is associated with first trimester in pregnancy, it may also increase the risk of bleeding when close to labour. In order to avoid any problem of any sort, it is best to do away with it. Click here to read about Foods & Drinks and Fruits that pregnant women should avoid.

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Benefits of Soursop

1 Comment / Health & Wellness / Botapreneur

Soursop is also known as graviola, custard apple, guanabana and Brazilian pawpaw. It is the fruit of the plant, Annona muricata. This fruit has strong flavours between strawberries and pineapple. Soursop can be eaten raw. It can also be added to smoothies or made into teas, juices and ice cream. Benefits of soursop (fruits & other parts of the plant ) include the following: √ Soursop is very low in calories. √ It’s used as a sedative. √ Soursop is packed with essential vitamins and nutrients. √ It is also known to have cancer-fighting properties and has an amazing taste. Research shows it inhibits the growth of cancer cells which is essential for good health. √ Soursop help fights inflammation. The bark, leaves and roots of soursop tree are known to have anti-inflammatory properties. √ Soursop acts as an analgesic and provides relief for arthritis. The leaves can be cooked and applied topically on the affected area for effective relief. √ Soursop has antibacterial and antiviral properties and help to fight infections. √ Soursop is rich in dietary fiber which ensures easy digestion of food and supports healthy bowel movements. √ Soursop is rich in antioxidants and Vitamin B complex which protect the skin from free radicals. √ Soursop leaves are rich in compounds that help in treating conditions like asthma. √ Soursop helps in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Note: Seeds of the soursop should be avoided as they contain annonacin, a neurotoxin that may lead to the development of Parkinson’s disease.

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Benefits of Coconut + How To Make Cold Pressed Coconut Oil

3 Comments / Health & Wellness / Botapreneur

Coconut, Cocos nucifera is a member of the palm tree family (Arecaceae). Coconut is a fibrous one-seeded drupe. Drupes are fruits that have an inner flesh and seed surrounded by a hard shell. Products that can be gotten from Coconut include: Coconut Meat Coconut Oil Coconut Milk Coconut Cream Coconut Flakes (desiccated coconut), Coconut Flour Coconut Sugar Coconut Butter Coir Some of the benefits of these products include the following: Coconut meat is rich in copper and iron which help form red blood cells. Coconut meat contains phenolic compounds like gallic acid and caffeic acid that help protect cells from oxidative damage. Coconut Flakes is used in Savoury dishes, baking, cookies, muffins, and breads. Coconut flour can be used in baking as a substitute for wheat flour. It’s gluten-free. Coconut oil helps to keep hair and skin healthy, prevents wrinkles, removes acne, prevents hair loss and clear spots. Coconut water contains important electrolytes that help in maintaining hydration. Coir is the the fiber from the husk of the coconut. It is used in ropes, mats, doormats, brushes, and sacks, etc HOW TO PRODUCE COLD-PRESSED COCONUT OIL. 1. Open your coconuts and rinse the flesh in clean water to get rid of sand or the brown particles of the coconuts. 2. Cut the coconuts into smaller cubes to make it easy for easy blending or grating. 3. Once done, use a cheesecloth or strainer to squeeze out the milk. 4. Cover the coconut milk with a lid and leave it in a cool place to settle for about 12 hours or overnight. Note: If it’s put in a hot, it will become sour. Better still, you can simply place it in the fridge to quicken the process. 5. After that, you will notice that the mixture has been selected into layers. The oil above, curd in between and water below. It is advisable you use a transparent bowl so that you can see this clearly. 6. Gently scoop out the oil into another bowl. Take your time to in order to avoid mixing up together. Viola, your cold-pressed coconut oil is ready. There is another method called the Hot Pressed Method. Here, the blended coconut pulp is placed on heat to produce the oil. However, cold-pressed coconut oil has stronger taste and flavor and a higher content of antioxidants, protein, vitamins, and healthy fatty acids than hot pressed. This is because if high temperature is applied during the hot pressed method, it can cause a change in the composition and properties of the coconut oil.

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Spice of the Week: Mustard Seeds

2 Comments / Plants/Herbs & Spices / Botapreneur

My early knowledge about mustard seeds came from the Holy Bible. Jesus Christ told the Parable of the Mustard Seed as an analogy to the Kingdom of Heaven. This Parable of the Mustard Seed is one of the shorter parables of Jesus. Matthew (13:31–32), Mark (4:30–32), and Luke (13:18–19). Also, the Lord Jesus mentioned in Luke 17:6 about if we have faith as that of mustard seeds, we can make decrees and they will be established. The Bible also made us know than even though mustard seeds are less than all the seeds on Earth but when sown, grow up and become greater than all herbs Glory!!! Apart from the religion significance of these mustard seeds, they have important benefits to health as well. Mustard seeds are the fruit pods obtained from the mustard plant which belong to the Brassica family. Some other members of this family include cabbage and broccoli. Mustard plant is native to Asia Minor but is now being widely cultivated in other countries like Pakistan, Canada, India, China, etc. There are 3 major varieties of mustard seeds. 1) White mustard seeds (Brassica alba): White seeds have mild pungent taste. 2) Black mustards (Brassica nigra): They are sharp and more pungent than the other two varieties. 3) Brown mustards (Brassica juncea) Mustard seeds are greatly used as spice & condiment. In fact, they are widely used in Indian households and form an integral part of their cuisine. However, aside from the culinary uses, mustard seeds have been associated with lots of health benefits. They are loaded with so compounds that are beneficial to health: 1) Mustard seeds are high in essential oils and plant sterols. Some of the important sterols include brassicasterol, sitosterol, and stigmasterol which are essential in prevention of some diseases in the body. 2) Mustard seeds are excellent source of essential B-complex vitamins such as folates, thiamin, riboflavin and pantothenic acid. 3) Mustard seeds have been used as a stimulant, diuretic, and purgative. 4) Mustard seeds are rich in a nutrient called selenium known for its high anti-inflammatory effects. 5) Mustard seeds are rich in magnesium which helps in reducing the severity of asthma attacks and lowering blood pressure. 6) Mustard seeds has been known to contain glucosinolate, a compound that has been known to have anti-cancer properties. 7) Mustard is also rich in carotenoids, isorhamnetin, and kaempferol of which these antioxidants prevents conditions like type 2 diabetes & heart disease Mustard seeds can be doused in warm milk, whipped into salad dressings. It can also be grounded and sprinkled into warm meals or soaked and used to make mustard paste.

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Introduction To Herbs & Spices

7 Comments / Plants/Herbs & Spices / Botapreneur

Spices are referred to as plant parts apart from leaves that can be used for flavouring or colouring of foods. Spices are usually produced from seeds, barks, roots, berries, twigs and fruits of plants. For instances: Cinnamon is the bark of a tree. Cardamom is a seed pod. Ginger and Tumeric are roots. Allspice is a dried berry. Cloves are dried flower buds. Saffron is stigma. Spices are used to enhance flavour and tastes of foods. Apart from culinary uses, spices have numerous medicinal uses as well. On the other hand, herbs are the leafy parts (either fresh or dried) of plants majorly used for flavourings or for medicinal uses. There are some plants that produce both herbs & spices. Cilantro is the leaf of the plant, Coriandrum sativum, while coriander is the seed that comes from that same plant. Both cilantro (herb) and coriander (spice) are used in flavourings. Below are the list of 45 common herbs & spices (majority of them being spices) Allspice Cardamon Coriander Fenugreek Fennel Cumin Tumeric Ginger Oregano Dill Parsley Celery Thyme Rosemary Anise Seed Chicory Root Licorice Root Cinnamon Nutmeg Mace Caraway Bay Leaves Cayenne Pepper Star Anise Cloves Black Pepper White Pepper Paprika Carom Seeds Chili Pepper Cassia Sesame Mustard Peppercorn Nigella Saffron Galangal Basil Mint Cilantro Sage Majoram Vanilla Peppermint Horseradish Season your foods with herbs & spices, not because of the flavour, aroma and taste they give but also for their nutritional values and medicinal benefits.

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Health Benefits of Black Seeds

2 Comments / Health & Wellness / Botapreneur

Sometimes last week, I saw my dad and mum taking a particular liquid from a bottle after eating and I had thought it to be a drug. I was curious and had to ask if they were sick. But I found out that what they both took was a teaspoon of black seeds oil each. I was forced to ask why and their response was that it helps in boosting immune system and they are just using it as preventive measure. As per the fact that both of them are health workers and with the issue of coronavirus at the moment, they needed to also do their own part as they pray along for safety. My mum then mentioned the fact that black seed oil was part of what Governor Seyi Makinde used when he tested positive for coronavirus. Governor Seyi Makinde who happens to be the current governor of Oyo State in Nigeria once tested positive to coronavirus and after sometimes, tested negative. In an interview he had after his recovery, he mentioned the fact that during the time he tested positive, he took in lots of vitamin C, carrots and black seed oil mixed with honey (one teaspoon both in the morning and at night.) Few days after the discussion I had with my parents, I happened to be on an online class when a woman attested to the use of black seed oil as well. This woman happens to be the assistant director of nursing in a very big hospital in Nigeria. She gave a testimony of how her daughter was afflicted with a disease for 3 years that deferred orthodox medicine until she stumbled on black seeds oil. According to her, she believes black seed is a potent herb against coronavirus. She also gets to sell black seed oil to nurses, doctors and health workers in her place of work. These incidences coupled with the fact that someone had once made enquiries from me about the health benefits of black seeds made me to put up this short article about black seeds (based on all the knowledge I’ve gathered from my studying and researching.) Black seeds botanically known as Nigella sativa is a flowering plant that is native to South Asia and the Mediterranean but has grown to some other parts of the World. Black seed is called by different names such as black cumin, black caraway, cumin noir, fennel flower, seed of blessing, small fennel, kalonji, roman coriander, etc Even though black seed is also sometimes called black cumin (or black cumin seed), it is different from the regular cumin of the Cuminum family. The seeds have an aroma that is similar to fennel, a pungent flavour similar to nutmeg and a bitter taste compared to oregano. Black seeds contain a variety of chemicals (of over 100 chemical compounds) in which quinine compounds are the most abundant. The most prominent compounds are thymoquinone and thymohydroquinone. Crystalline nigellone is another major active ingredient found in black seeds oil. Black seeds also contain more than 25 minerals and vitamins. Black seed has been known to cure various diseases. The numerous chemicals, vitamins and minerals available in black seeds make it suitable in curing as many diseases as possible. Black seeds have been proven to have the following properties: Anticancer property Antiinflammatory property Anticoagulant property Antihypertensive Analgesic property Antibacterial property Antifungal property Antioxidant property Antiviral property Historically, black seeds have been used in the treatment of several treatment such as migraine, toothache, nasal congestion, intestinal worms, hiccups, meningitis, epilepsy, conjunctivitis, cataract, abscesses, digestive tract infections (such as diarrhea, dysentery, constipation, and hemorrhoids), respiratory conditions (such as asthma, allergies, cough, bronchitis, emphysema, flu) Black seeds have also been used in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Women also use black seeds for birth control and lactation. Black seed oil has also been discovered to be effective for treating acne, psoriasis and also used as wound healing hereby making it a great choice of oil for the skin. The oil is also good for the hair as it makes hair soft and shining. HOW TO USE BLACK SEEDS Black seeds can be sprinkled on foods such as flatbread. The seeds can also be grounded and used as spices in food. Black seed oil can be mixed with other oil or cream and be applied to the skin. Few drops of black seed oil can be added to bathing water. Black seed oil can be consumed in either capsule or liquid form (1 teaspoon daily is okay as too much intake of it might have adverse effects as well). Also, due to its pungent flavour, you may want to mix the oil with honey, lemon juice or warm water before using. The OIL is the most effective way of consuming black cumin than taking the SEEDS directly because the oil is more readily absorbed.

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Pregnancy Diet: 7 Fruits To Avoid During Pregnancy

2 Comments / Health & Wellness, Nutrition, Women & Health / Botapreneur

It is essential that a pregnant woman feeds on highly nutritious diets in order to keep herself and the growing baby healthy. And one of the major healthy foods to include in a pregnant woman’s diet are fruits. Fruits are nutritious, contain vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and antioxidants needed to stay healthy and glow. Fruits also help in fighting against diseases. However, as much as fruits are healthy and essential to take, there are some that a pregnant woman needs to either avoid totally or partially. In this article are listed 7 of those fruits that falls into this category: 1) PINEAPPLE Pineapple is a delicious and nutritious fruit packed with vitamins, minerals and lots of insoluble fiber. However, it is not advisable to be taken by pregnant women. This is because pineapple is acidic and may cause reflux and heartburn for those that have sensitive stomach. Pineapple also contains a compound called bromelain that may soften the cervix to trigger contractions in pregnancy which may cause miscarriage. It is best to avoid consuming too much pineapple juice during the early stages of pregnancy. 2) PAWPAW Studies has shown that pregnant women should avoid eating pawpaw in large quantities during the first trimester especially the unripe variety. Papaya contains an enzyme that activates oxytocin (the hormone responsible for producing milk and uterine contraction), therefore, eating too much of it may induce labour. The type of latex in unripe papaya is also not good for pregnant women. Additionally, green papaya contains prostaglandin plus oxytocin, which can both play a role in inducing labor contractions. 3) LITCHI Litchi, also known as ‘lychee’ or ‘lichee’ with high source of various antioxidants. However, it is not safe for consumption during pregnancy as it can raise blood sugar levels and lead to gestational diabetes. Litchis may also contribute to infections and result in haemorrhage. Hence, litchis should be avoided during pregnancy. Excess consumption of litchi can lead to fetal derangement, bleeding, abdominal pain heartburn, or miscarriage. 4) PEACHES Pregnant women diagnosed with high blood sugar can have peaches, but only in very small quantities because excessive intake can lead to bleeding internally if consumed as it generates more heat. 5) WILD APPLE Wild apples are acidic in nature and they can initiate contraction of the uterus. Their acidic and sour properties may induce the uterus to contract and lead to premature labour or a miscarriage. Pregnant women should avoid having wild apples during pregnancy. Related: Pregnancy Diet: Foods & Drinks To Avoid Pregnancy 6) LONGAN Both longan and litchi belong to the same family. Longan is known fetal derangement, abdominal pain, bleeding and cause harm to the fetus leading to miscarriage. 7) BLACK GRAPES Black grapes have high amounts of resveratrol present in them and this chemical can cause toxicity for the pregnant woman. The digestive system is usually weak during pregnancy and thus the system might have problem in being able to digest the skin of the black grapes. Consuming too much grape juice can also disrupt blood sugar levels.

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Pregnancy Diet: Foods & Drinks To Avoid During Pregnancy

7 Comments / Health & Wellness, Nutrition, Women & Health / Botapreneur

Pregnancy is one of the most special period in a woman’s life and the actions taken by a pregnant woman directly or indirectly have either positive or negative effects on the growing baby. Once a woman gets pregnant, one of the major things she needs to pay serious and important attention to is her diet. This is because whatever she feeds either aids or hamper the growth and development of the baby. That means such woman would have to feed on a well balanced diet in order to provide proper nutrition for her growing baby. Once a woman get pregnant, certain foods would have to be consumed rarely while others would be avoided completely. It might not be easy doing away with some foods especially the ones one is addicted during this period. However, the aim of keeping the baby healthy needs to be considered. In this article are listed foods that needs to be put in check once a woman gets pregnant. 1) RAW/UNDERCOOKED MEATS Eating raw or undercooked meats exposes a pregnant woman to a high risk of getting contaminated with bacteria. These bacteria may threaten the health of the unborn baby. It can lead to stillbirth or severe neurological illnesses or blindness. 2) HIGH MERCURY FISHES High Mercury fishes like king mackerel, marlin, shark, tilefish, swordfish, and tuna should be avoided by pregnant women. Excessive mercury intake can adversely affect the baby’s developing brain and nervous system. 3) ALOE VERA Aloe vera plant contain anthraquinones laxative compounds which can triggers uterine contractions and lead to losing of the pregnancy. The latex in Aloe vera plant is also a powerful laxative and can create an electrolyte imbalance in the intestines. Also, nursing mothers should also be cautious while taking Aloe vera as the compounds in it can be passed through breast milk which may upset the baby’s digestive system. 4) HERBS As much as herbs are good, it is advisable to avoid taking just any herb during pregnancy. If at all a pregnant woman wants to take herb, she should consult her doctor first. This is because herbs containing steroids can affect the baby’s growth during pregnancy when taken in large quantities. For example, Centella can cause harm to the liver, resulting in severe jaundice and damage the baby’s brain. Dong Quai contains some compounds that can initiate a miscarriage or premature delivery. Read Also: 7 Fruits to Avoid During Pregnancy 5) EGGPLANT Eggplant is called the king of vegetables and is also known as brinjal, garden egg or guinea squash, eggplant. Eggplant is very nutritious and it contains fiber, folate, and potassium that is needed for fetal development. Brinjal or eggplant may be eaten during pregnancy but in moderate quantities. This is because Egg plants grow in soil that is rich in toxoplasmosis which can cause premature delivery, miscarriage, stillbirth or damage to the baby’s brain and other organs especially the eyes. 6) UNPASTEURIZED CHEESE, MILK & JUICE Raw milk and unpasteurized cheese & juice do contain harmful bacteria like Listeria, Salmonella, Esherichia coli and Campylobacter that are dangerous both to the mother and baby. 7) SEAFOODS Most seafood like shellfish, oysters, crabs, sashimi, sushi, and prawns may be polluted with listeria that can result in pregnancy problems like preterm labour or miscarriage. It’s advisable to consume only well-cooked seafood. Crabs for instance also contain high mercury which when consumed by pregnant women can affect the foetus brain and nervous system growth. Although, it has been suggested that the mercury in king crabs is much lower than other types of crabs like blue crab, snow crab & Dungeness crab. However, it is advisable to eat king crabs in moderation or avoid it totally during pregnancy. 8) UNWASHED VEGETABLES Vegetables are very nutritious and laden with so many health benefits. However, it is unsafe to eat unwashed or raw vegetables by pregnant women. Raw or unwashed vegetables possess toxoplasma gondii, a common parasite which causes toxoplasmosis. That is why it is good to soak vegetables in clean salt water and wash them thoroughly before cooking mildly. 10) ALCOHOL Asides from being pregnant, alcohol is not even good to be consumed before of its adverse effects on the organs of the body talk less of being taken by a pregnant woman. Alcohol is highly detrimental to health. Alcohol should be totally avoided during pregnancy. Consuming alcohol (even in small quantity) can lead to different types of birth defects and it also increases the chances of miscarriage and stillbirth. 11) RAW EGGS Eggs do contain a bacteria called salmonella. This bacteria may cause intrauterine infections which can be severe and lead to a miscarriage. Pregnant women should avoid taking raw eggs or any food containing raw eggs like eggnog, homemade mayonnaise, smoothies containing raw eggs, etc It is advisable to cook eggs thoroughly before eating. This will help in killing the bacteria. 12) CAFFEINE Study has shown that caffeine is safe when consumed in moderation. However, it is advisable for pregnant women to regulate their level of caffeine intake. Too much of caffeine increase chances of miscarriage and can also result into low birth weight babies. Caffeine is not only present in coffee, it is also present in tea and chocolates. 13) ENERGY, SODA & CARBONATED DRINKS Energy drinks should be avoided by pregnant women because they contain a high amount of caffeine and other ingredients that poses effects on the fetus. Soda and Carbonated drinks have high level of sugar and when sugar is consumed in large amounts, it can drive insulin resistance and is also associated with various serious conditions, including type 2 diabetes and heart diseases. They are also highly filled with fructose and caffeine. Read Also: Foods & Drinks To Avoid After 40 14) RAW SPROUTS Avoid eating raw sprouts like alfalfa, clover, and radish. They are highly prone to listeria, salmonella, and E.coli bacteria. 15) JUNKS & CANNED FOODS Junks are majorly always

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