Turmeric or luyang dilaw is a commonly used spice in many Filipino meals. It also has many medicinal benefits. But, is turmeric good for pregnant women? Can expectant moms take turmeric supplements to protect or promote their health as well as their baby’s? Find out here.
Is Turmeric Safe for Pregnant Women?
Before answering the question, Is turmeric good for pregnant women, you probably want to know more about its safety first.
According to reports, turmeric or luyang dilaw is likely safe for expectant mothers when taken in small amounts. That means the typical amount you put in meals to spice them up.
The Potential Benefits of Turmeric in Pregnancy
Below are the possible health benefits of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric:
1. It might help with inflammation and insulin sensitivity
One study noted that 1500 mg of curcumin supplementation per day for 10 weeks resulted in the following:
- Decreased triglycerides, a type of fat. An elevated level may point to increased risk for stroke.
- Decreased C- reactive protein, a compound made by the liver in response to inflammation.
- Increased adiponectin, which can help with combating inflammation, insulin sensitivity, and atherogenesis or the formation of fats in the arteries.
These potential benefits are crucial, especially since many pregnant women may develop gestational diabetes.
2. It might help pregnant women manage their weight
One of the possible issues among pregnant women is excessive weight gain. Now, there’s a study indicating that about 2100 mg of turmeric powder daily for 8 weeks can reduce body weight and even the levels of low-density lipoprotein or bad cholesterol.
3. It might help prevent preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a condition where a pregnant woman experiences high blood pressure and protein levels in the urine, which can indicate damage to the kidneys.
Now, one study noted that curcumin can lower inflammatory markers in pregnant women that can help prevent preeclampsia.
The Potential Dangers of Turmeric in Pregnancy
We cannot answer the question, Is turmeric good for pregnant women, without talking about its potential dangers.
Despite its possible benefits, there is an animal study which noted that the offspring of the animals that received curcumin during pregnancy had a slightly low birth weight.
Supplements: Is Turmeric Good for Pregnant Women?
Now, considering the potential health benefits and dangers, will it be okay for pregnant women to receive turmeric supplementation?
Experts say, no it isn’t.
While there are studies highlighting the possible health benefits of curcumin or turmeric supplementation among pregnant mothers, the full effect of supplementation is not yet truly known.
To be on the safe side, it’s best to stick to having fresh or cooked turmeric in food amounts.
How to Incorporate Turmeric in Your Diet
Using turmeric as spice may not give you the possible effects we’ve discussed above, but you can still benefit by:
- Sprinkling grated fresh turmeric root on vegetables, cooked eggs, and soup
- Adding turmeric to smoothies or juices
- Using turmeric in home-baked goods
- Preparing fresh turmeric tea. Simply put 1 teaspoon of turmeric with a squeeze of lemon in a cup of boiling water. You can also sweeten it a bit with honey.
- Adding sliced or grated turmeric to your viands.
While doing these, please don’t forget to follow the dietary guidelines your doctor provided you with for a healthy pregnancy.
Key Takeaways
Is turmeric good for pregnant women? Some studies say it can help with insulin sensitivity, weight control, and even preeclampsia prevention. However, there is also an animal study suggesting that it may result in slightly lower birth weight.
To be safe, experts say pregnant women should stick to having turmeric in food amounts. They strongly discourage expectant mothers from taking turmeric or curcumin supplements.
If you want to learn more about turmeric, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your doctor.
Learn more about Pregnancy here.
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