Pregnant women always want to know if taking Moringa while they are carrying their precious baby in the womb is the right thing to do or not.
A healthy diet utilizing the best foods containing the best nutrients for all stages of your pregnancy will greatly increase the chances that your baby will be born thriving and strong.
The nine month journey will demand new challenges be met and probably the most important of these is being aware of the fact that everything from "Day 1" will impact on the baby which in turn will determine its future and mom's too.
Moringa leaves are a powerhouse of nutrients and goodness which may make them an ideal dietary ingredient for women during pregnancy.
So what are the medical benefits of using moringa during pregnancy?
- Aids in breast milk production-
Several medical studies have shown its effectiveness in increasing breast milk volume in nursing mothers. In one double blind study, women taking Moringa Oleifera leaves (250mg) increased milk production by 180% compared to the control group.
While Moringa has been used in traditional medicine by milking mothers for ages, only one small scientific study has been performed on the effects in nursing mothers who ingested Moringa leaves and found no adverse side effects.
There are no studies available on the safety of Moringa in nursing infants at this time. While Moringa may help stimulate breast milk production in mothers, as with all other galactogogues such as Milk Thistle and Fenugreek, they should never replace counseling from your doctor before taking them and on other modifiable factors that affect milk production.
- Relieves constipation
Research by an Australian University suggests that a high fibre diet can be especially beneficial during pregnancy where it has been shown to fight the effects of genes that cause asthma in the baby.
A diet containing lots of fibre can also reduce the risk of premature death according to another recent study and of course fibre is a good ally in the fight against constipation which can be an uncomfortable affliction for pregnant women.
As stated above Moringa Oleifera is a rich source of fibre (essential for a healthy gut) and merits being included in your diet during pregnancy IF your physician approves.
It is worth noting that some experts are warning that excess fibre is as bad as low fibre for your health.
- Germ Killers
Miracle tree leaves are a rich source of antioxidants which as you know help the body's immune system to fight off bugs and infections.
A healthy mom-to-be will be a big advantage to the developing baby.
Try not to take supplements when a healthy diet containing the nutrients you require is always the best option for you and baby.
- Powerful Vitamins in Moringa
An impressive list of Vitamins present in Moringa are...
Vitamin A (Beta Carotene)
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Vitamin B6 Pyrodixine)
Vitamin B7 (Biotin)
Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)
Vitamin D* (Cholecalciferol)
Vitamin E (Tocopherol)
Vitamin K*
- Regulates Sugar Levels
During pregnancy, Gestational Diabetes begins usually between weeks 24 and 28 of the term when the body fails to produce enough insulin. GDM is fairly common and being overweight is one risk as is being over age 35 to name but two areas of concern if you are expecting a child.
Vitamin B7 has been proven to be instrumental in maintaining proper levels of sugar in the blood thus helping the body to regulate insulin. Moringa is a great source of the Biotin B7 vitamin.
- Packed With Iron
One thing an expectant mother can do without is an Iron deficiency.
Lack of energy, fatigue, unable to function or perform in the normal way will absolutely impact negatively on the developing embryo.
Low iron leads to anemia and other health problems and because women and children require more than men it stands to reason that they are more prone to needing regular top-ups.
Moringa is full of iron and zinc. Compared to spinach, Moringa has 25 times more iron and iron absorption of the body is increased with the usage of Moringa leaves.
Potential Moringa Side Effects & Concerns
Everything has a dark side and Moringa is no exception. According to webmd, Moringa can be used safely in doses up to 6 grams daily for up to 3 weeks.
"Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: It’s LIKELY UNSAFE to use the root, bark or flowers of Moringa if you are pregnant.
Chemicals in the root, bark, and flowers can make the uterus contract, and this might cause a miscarriage.
There is not enough information available about safety of using other parts of Moringa during pregnancy. Stay on the safe side and avoid use."
The leafs and powder are considered safe but sticking to Moringa safety guidelines will prevent problems associated with over use.
Proper dosing must take into account age, weight and health as well as other factors.
However, it is strongly recommended to avoid the ROOT, SEEDS, BARK and FLOWERS of the Moringa plant especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
YOUR DOCTOR WILL BEST ADVISE YOU, AS TO WHAT IS SUITABLE FOR YOU.
Note - Organicule Superfoods Moringa Powder is 100% Certified Organic. It is also pure Moringa leaves powder and does not have any contamination with roots or stems. The leaves used by Organicule Superfoods for its powder are hand-picked from Moringa farms in India.
Hence Organicule Superfoods Moringa Powder is 100% safe to have during and after pregnancy.
- Written by Sonam Kochar Mantoo