Carrots During Pregnancy: Benefits & Risks

5 min read

Written by Gunjan Bedi

Gunjan Bedi

pregnant women holding carrot

During pregnancy and especially in the second and third trimester, all you may want is to rest on the sofa, with the television turned on, and munching on your favorite snacks, carrots for example. However, when it comes to eating during this time, you should educate yourself on all the benefits and risks of consuming carrots during pregnancy. So, is eating carrots safe?

Empty calories are calories derived from added sugars and unhealthy fats and oils. If you’re pregnant, try to choose foods that come packed with nutrients and avoid those that come with many empty calories. This will help you and your baby get the vitamins and minerals you both need. Carrot is excellent to have during pregnancy in this aspect.

In This Article

Video of Carrots During Pregnancy

Nutritional Benefits of Carrot During Pregnancy

Nutrients Value
Calories 41Kcal
Carbohydrates 9.58 grams
Protein 0.93 grams
Fiber 2.8 grams
Fat 0.24 grams
Sugars 4.5 grams
A Vitamin 5milligrams
C Vitamin 6 milligrams
B Vitamin 6 0.135 grams
K Vitamin 13.2 milligrams
Selenium .1 milligrams
Manganese 0.143 milligrams
Copper 0.045 milligrams
Potassium 320 milligrams
Sodium 69 milligrams
Calcium 33 milligrams
Iron 0.3 milligrams
Magnesium 12 milligrams
Zinc 0.24 milligrams
Phosphorus 35 milligrams

11 Amazing Benefits of Carrot During Pregnancy

benefits of eating carrot during pregnancy

As you can see, carrots are choc-a-bloc with many vital nutrients that keep you healthy, especially during pregnancy. We now list the top health benefits of eating carrots when you are pregnant.

1. Carrots are Good For Eyesight

Vitamin A present in carrots assists in the regulation of the hemoglobin level and also helps improve eyesight when consumed on a regular basis.

2. Strengthens Teeth and Bone

During pregnancy, the risk of developing tooth problems is very common. But you might not suffer from this issue if you consume carrots. The calcium presence in carrots is helpful for the teeth and bone health of the mother-to-be and is also helpful for the overall growth and development of the to-be-born baby.

3. Good For Heart

Carrots are high in potassium which is a vital nutrient that helps maintain your heart health. If you have conditions such as hypertension, carrots are a good snack for you.

4. Liver Cleanser

When you are pregnant, it is essential that all your organs function properly to support the proper growth of the fetus. A properly functioning liver is essential to detoxify your body and keep your metabolism going. Carrots keep your liver healthy and functioning well.

5. Strengthen the Immune System

During pregnancy, because all the nutrients of the mother’s body are directed towards the wellbeing of the fetus, your personal immune system suffers a setback. Having carrots during pregnancy provides support to your immune system and helps you fight infections and fevers.

6. Fighter

Carrots don’t make you karate champions, but yes, they do help your body in fighting against lung diseases like bronchitis.

7. Healthy Glowing Skin

During pregnancy, women tend to develop rashes and freckles, which are actually the signs of the onset of dermatological problems. A pregnant woman must stay away from beauty treatments that expose her to a lot of harmful chemicals. So in such a case, carrots are the best friend for pregnant women. They keep the skin of the mother-to-be and the muscles of the baby-to-be healthy.

8. Prevents Gestational Diabetes

Carrots are very supportive in regulating blood sugar levels, thereby minimizing the risk of gestational diabetes.

9. No Constipation

Pregnancy not only affects the food intake but also affects the morning routine of an individual. It is not healthy to get constipated during pregnancy. Being high in fiber, carrots are vital for improving digestion and ensuring a free bowel movement.

[Read: Pregnancy and Constipation]

10. Prevents Anemia

Carrots have Vitamin C which helps in the proper absorption of iron in the body and reduces the chance of getting anemic.

11. Additional Benefits

  • If you have been facing severe pregnancy cramps, consume carrots.
  • They are helpful in reducing swelling and in toxemia.
  • Carrots are beneficial even post-delivery, because of their vitamin A which assists in enhancing the quality of your breast milk.
  • Phytochemicals present in carrot juice promote the proper functioning of the body.
  • Consuming carrot juice in the third trimester of pregnancy reduces the chances of jaundice in the baby.

[Read: Capsicum During Pregnancy]

Disadvantages of Eating Carrot Pregnancy During Pregnancy

Anything, and for that matter, even carrots are not good during pregnancy, if over-consumed. Here are certain demerits of overconsuming carrots during pregnancy:

  • Too much beta-carotene can damage the kidney and bring about related complications. One fresh carrot a day is enough, do not overindulge.
  • Avoid carrots during pregnancy, if you are allergic to them. Allergy symptoms associated with carrots are headache, nausea, and weakness.
  • Excessive intake of vitamin A is not good for the developing baby.
  • If you as a pregnant lady suffer from biliary tract disease, then avoid consumption of carrots in excess.
  • Spicy and fried carrot recipes are a big no during pregnancy.
  • Excessive intake of carrot juice can make you lethargic.

[Read: Why Green Peas Are The Perfect Food During Pregnancy?]

Tips and Tricks to Extract More Nutrients From Carrots

Tips and Tricks to Extract More Nutrients From Carrots

By following these few tips and tricks you can enjoy the full benefits of consuming carrots.

  • Carrots that are less than six inches long are sweeter. Have them to satisfy your craving for sweets.
  • The skin of a carrot is rich in vital nutrients. So don’t peel its skin before consumption. Simply scrub it properly and have it. Ensure you buy organic ones when eating them raw.
  • Carrots are mild root vegetables. You can mix and match them with other veggies for a sumptuous diet.
  • Make sure to consume fresh carrots only because they are crunchier and very tasty. To check the freshness of the carrot while buying, simply try breaking the tip of the carrot. If it breaks easily with a crunchy sound, it is fresh.

So, the next time during pregnancy, when you feel stressed or fatigued, go for a glass of fresh carrot juice. This one glass of nutrients will do wonders for your baby inside and will energize you instantly. Enjoy your pregnancy and stay healthy!

FAQ’s

1. Can Eating Carrots During Pregnancy Help Improve Baby’s Eyesight?

Yes, they can. They are rich in Vitamin A. Regular consumption can benefit babies too.

2. Can Eating Carrots During Pregnancy Improve a Baby’s Complexion?

Carrots are rich in beta carotene. This is very good for the skin. It can help mother and baby get good glowing skin.

3. Can Carrots Help With Constipation During Pregnancy?

Yes, they do. They contain a lot of roughage. They help in the better digestion of foods.

4. Can Eating Too Many Carrots During Pregnancy Affect the Baby?

Overloading on carrots might lead to skin discoloration. This is called carotenemia. It can make skin look yellowish-orange.

Read Also: Yams During Pregnancy – Benefits And Side Effects

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Gunjan Bedi,B.Sc (Biotechnology), M.Sc (Microbiology)

Gunjan Bedi an inspirational writer and story teller. My background in medical science make me a perfect content writer in parenting and medical content writing niche. My content has touched millions of readers within three years. Since past three years I have worked with several clients in different niche and provide easy to read content that readers love the most.Read more.

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