The Indian kitchen comprises some of the most unique fruits and vegetables, most of which have an extensive range of benefits to offer. Kathal or jackfruit is one of them. This summer fruit may not look as inviting on the outside, but it is a perfect blend of health and taste. No wonder, most of us can’t stop ourselves from indulging in an extra helping of kathal ki sabzi or the sumptuous kathal ki biryani.
We can write pages after pages on its innumerable benefits, but here’s a surprise. If you’ve been planning to conceive and are wondering how to boost fertility, kathal or jackfruit is the secret. It’s time to know why!
Jackfruit: A powerhouse of nutrients
The good news is that jackfruit possesses a moderate amount of calories; yes, 155 calories in a single cup. Only about 5 calories come from fat, which makes it a truly healthy food. At the same time, it is packed with folate, thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, and vitamins A and C. It is also rich in manganese, copper, potassium, iron, and calcium.
Furthermore, its rich fibre content helps to enhance digestion, while the absence of sugar makes it a safe fruit for diabetics as well.
All in all, its nutritional profile helps to improve fertility in women. But is it as good for pregnant women, or should it be avoided?
Is it safe to consume jackfruit during pregnancy?
“Jackfruit produces heat in the body, which is why it isn’t advised in large amounts during pregnancy. Moreover, there isn’t much evidence to show its benefits during this time. But an expectant mother can consume it in small amounts. Overdoing it is not a good idea, because it could lead to health issues for both the mother and baby,” says Dhwani Priyesha, a Bhopal-based gynecologist.
Eating jackfruit during pregnancy can help by:
- Eliminating stomach issues, such as ulcers, during pregnancy
- Helps in the growth and development of the baby
- Helps to regulate blood pressure levels
- Prevents fatigue
- Stimulates digestion
- Lowers stress
- Strengthens the immune system
- Side effects of eating jackfruit during pregnancy
Make note of certain risks of consuming jackfruit during pregnancy:
1. Eating jackfruit in large amounts can cause diabetes in expectant mothers
2. It accelerates coagulation of blood, especially if a pregnant mother has a pre-existing blood-related health condition
3. It can lead to diarrhea and other digestive issues
So ladies, enjoy this fruit but only in moderate amounts if you are pregnant!