Pregnancy is a crucial phase for both the mother and the fetus. Mothers need to be cautious about their food and beverage choices, as the nutrients consumed not only benefit them but also contribute to the growth and development of the baby in the womb.
Therefore, the nutritional needs of pregnant women is increasing, compared to before pregnancy. To fulfill the required nutrients, mothers can consume cashew products.
Cashews are a popular snack known for their delicious taste and rich nutritional content. Now you can enjoy the savory flavor of cashews in a glass of milk. But, is cashew milk safe for pregnant women? Let’s discover the facts!
Is Cashew Milk Safe for Pregnant Women?
Cashews and their processed products, such as cashew milk are safe to consume by pregnant women, as long as they don’t have a cashew allergy.
So, please ensure that you’re not allergic to cashews before consuming them. If you haven’t eaten cashews before, try a small amount first and then observe your body’s reaction.
Allergic reactions to cashews may include:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Redness on the skin
- Itching
- Swelling in the mouth or other parts of the body
- Difficulty swallowing
- Shortness of breath
Symptoms and their severity can vary from person to person, depending on the body’s sensitivity and the amount of cashew that is consumed.
What Nutrients Are Found in Cashew Milk?
Cashews are known to contain various beneficial nutrients for body health. What about cashew milk? Here’s an explanation!
According to several studies, cashew milk contains nutrients, including various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, that promote health and boost the immune system.
Here are various nutrients in cashew milk that are beneficial for pregnant women:
- Carbohydrates
- Protein
- Healthy fats
- Iron
- Calcium
- Zinc
- Copper
- Vitamin A, B2, B9 (folate), B12, D, and E
Benefits of Cashew Milk for Pregnant Women
Cashew milk can be an option for pregnant women to fulfill their daily nutritional needs. What are the benefits of cashew milk for pregnant women?
1. Energy Source
Pregnant women need more calories as source of energy. Cashew milk contains carbohydrates that serve as the main energy source for the body.
2. Preventing Anemia
Anemia in pregnant women not only affects the mother but also the baby in the womb. Iron and folate deficiency are the causes of anemia.
In babies, a lack of iron can also lead to stunting. Folate plays a role in the formation of the fetal neural tube. A deficiency in folate during pregnancy can result in neural tube defects in infants.
Therefore, pregnant women must meet the nutritional needs: iron and folate. Cashew milk contains iron and folate, so mothers can consume cashew milk to fulfill their iron and folate intake.
3. Calcium Source for Bone and Teeth Health
During pregnancy, the mother’s calcium requirements increase as the fetus also needs calcium for bone and tooth growth. Calcium deficiency can lead to bone weakening and dental health issues.
To meet these calcium needs, mothers can consume cashew milk. Besides being rich in calcium, cashew milk also contains magnesium, which is beneficial for bones.
Magnesium can also prevent muscle cramps, fatigue, and high blood pressure in pregnant women.
4. Source of Healthy Protein
Protein plays a crucial role for pregnant women and the fetus. It can serve as an energy source for the mother and contribute to tissue’s repairment.
For the fetus, protein stimulates the growth and development of organs during pregnancy. Protein deficiency during pregnancy can lead to infants being born underweight and premature.
So, to meet protein needs during pregnancy, mothers can add cashew milk to their daily consumption of beverage.
5. Source of Healthy Fats
Cashew milk contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids beneficial for pregnant women and the fetus.
During pregnancy, the mother’s heart works harder. Consuming foods and beverages rich in healthy fats can reduce the risk of heart disease.
Omega-3 fatty acids play a role in the development of the fetal brain, nervous system, and eyes. DHA, found in omega-3 can stimulate brain intelligence.
6. Boost the immune system
During pregnancy, the mother’s immune system tends to weaken, making her more susceptible to illnesses. Therefore, mothers have to maintain their health, one of which is through a healthy diet.
Mothers need to consume foods and beverages that can help enhance their immune systems. Protein is one of the nutrients that play a role in boosting the immune system. Protein aids the body in fighting infections and repairing damaged cells.
In addition to protein, antioxidants can also support the immune system by neutralizing free radicals. Cashew milk is rich in protein and antioxidants, making it suitable to consume for pregnant women.
Arummi’s Recommendation: Let’s Consume Cashew Milk from Arummi to Fulfill Your Nutritional Needs!
To meet your nutritional needs during pregnancy, Arummi recommends cashew milk from Arummi. Enjoy the richness of cashews and experience their myriad benefits in a glass of milk!
You can find it in nearby marketplaces or supermarkets.