Is Citrus Fruit Good For Pregnancy? Let’s Find Out!

Citrus fruits are not only loved for their taste but are also preferred for their health benefits. They are packed with high fibre, minerals, and vitamins. Some good qualities of citrus fruits include helping with weight loss, having a low glycemic index, boosting immunity, protecting the heart against disorders, and keeping you hydrated throughout the day. Examples of citrus fruits include oranges, lemons, grapes, lime, etc.  

During pregnancy, it is important to maintain a healthy and nutritious diet for the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Citrus fruits are an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals that can benefit a pregnant woman's health.   

The FDA has classified citric acid as "generally recognised as safe," making it a reliable food choice for expectant mothers. However, like everything else in life, moderation is key. There are no specific recommendations for citrus fruit consumption during pregnancy, which ultimately depends on one's diet and overall health.   

It is best to consult a physician for individual advice on quantity. Nonetheless, incorporating citrus fruits in a healthy and balanced diet can help maintain optimal health during pregnancy. 

Also Read: Nutrition Week Day 3: Nutrition For Pregnant Women 

Benefits of Citrus Fruits for Pregnancy

Here are some of the health benefits of citrus fruits for pregnancy: 

1. Strengthen The Immune System 

Your role in maintaining a healthy immune system during pregnancy is crucial, as it helps protect both you and your baby. By consuming immune system-strengthening foods like grapefruit, lemons, oranges, and sweet limes, which are rich in vitamin C and are an energy source that strengthens the immune system, you are taking an active step in ensuring your health and your baby's health.   

2. Keeps You Hydrated 

Mixing citrus fruits with water not only adds flavour but also helps in increasing your water intake. This is crucial as it helps maintain a healthy, fluid environment around your baby, providing the necessary protection. Drinking enough water facilitates the transport of necessary nutrients and oxygen to your body, which benefits your baby's well-being.   

3. Helps To Prevent Nausea And Digestion 

Citrus fruits are known for their refreshing and aromatic properties, which can positively impact mood and overall well-being. The refreshing aroma of these fruits, such as lemon essential oil used in aromatherapy, may relieve nausea and promote relaxation. Therefore, it is believed that consuming citrus fruits, particularly lemons, can help alleviate digestive discomfort during pregnancy by reducing morning sickness. 

4. Good For Baby’s Health 

During pregnancy, it is recommended to consume citrus fruits due to their rich folic acid content, which is crucial in preventing certain neural tube defects in the baby. They also help to develop a baby's brain and strengthen their growing bones. Therefore, including citrus fruits in a pregnant woman's diet is essential to promote a healthy pregnancy and ensure the baby's well-being. 

What Citrus Fruits Can You Eat During Pregnancy? Top 9 Citrus Fruits For Pregnant Women  

Citrus fruits should be a part of the healthy diet during pregnancy. Here is the list of the top 9 healthy fruits for expecting ladies: 

1. Oranges 

Citrus fruits are some of the most popular, and the king is undoubtedly oranges. Whether you prefer the juicy flesh of an orange or the tangy-sweet taste of a tangerine, these fruits will satisfy your cravings. They are loaded with vitamin C content, which plays an important role in boosting the immune system. You can enjoy them in a variety of ways, from freshly squeezed juice to sliced oranges in salads. 

2. Tangerines  

Tangerines, also known as mandarins, are a great snack to carry with you. These citrus fruits are known for their easy-to-peel skin and small, juicy pieces. They are a bit sweeter than oranges and have a refreshing taste that is hard to resist. These are rich in fibre, minerals and vitamins, making them a nutritious and tasty snack to enjoy on the go. 

3. Lemon 

These may be small, but they pack a real punch. These are known for their high acidity and are used to add flavour to crocks and drinks. From garnishing a glass of water to enhancing the flavour of seafood, lemons are a kitchen essential. Additionally, their vitamin C content and antioxidant properties help improve digestion and healthy skin.   

4. Lime 

Lime, with its vibrant green hue, gives citrus a unique flavour. Whether it's the guacamole star or a cocktail's flavour, lime's unique flavour is unmatched. Rich in vitamin C and flavonoids, limes boost immunity and provide a refreshing way to add flavour to your dishes.    

Also Read: Lime - The Best Ingredient For Better Health?  

5. Grapefruit 

Grapefruit provides a complex flavour with a balance between sweet and bitter. This citrus fruit is a breakfast favourite and is available in various varieties, including pink and white. Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, grapefruit promotes weight control and heart health. Unique compounds found in grapefruit may also benefit metabolism and blood sugar control.    

6. Pomelo 

Pomelo is one of the three original citrus fruits. Those fruits were later crossed to produce other citrus fruits. White-fleshed pomelos are sweet, while pink-fleshed pomelos are sour. In Asia, pomelos are commonly eaten during mooncake festivals. 

7. Sweet Lime  

It is a type of lemon that is highly popular in South Asia. It has a mild and sweet taste and low acidity. This fruit is commonly consumed as juice and is the most popular fruit drink in countries like India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. It can be one of the great fruits of pregnancy. 

8. Mandarin 

Mandarin is a citrus fruit like the more widely known sweet orange. In Oriental medicine and Ayurveda, this sweet fruit holds a special significance in treating the gastrointestinal tract, digestion, and phlegm ailments. Additionally, in Chinese tradition, tangerines symbolise abundance and are often given as gifts and displayed during the Chinese New Year.    

9. Finger Lime 

Finger limes resemble long limes and are commonly known as 'lime caviar' due to the juicy foam they contain. They have a tangy flavour, making them perfect for making pickles and marmalades. The peel of finger limes is dried and used as a spice. 

Also Read: Importance of Nutrition During Pregnancy 

Dietitian’s Recommendation  

Citrus fruit is good for pregnancy as it contributes to healthy fetal development and growth. Eating citrus fruits during pregnancy has many benefits, from improving digestion to supporting your immune system and helping raise a healthy baby. However, moderation remains key when it comes to dietary choices during pregnancy. Additionally, it is essential to remember that while citrus fruit is good for pregnancy, pregnant women should consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. 

Dt. Lavina Chauhan