Benefits of Saffron (Kesar) During Pregnancy

Benefits & Side Effects of Saffron During Pregnancy - Motherhood Hospitals

Author: Dt. Arti Singh MSc – Nutritional Science

Consultant – Nutritionist and Dietician at Motherhood Hospital Kharghar  

Pregnancy is a time of great joy and anticipation, but it is also a time when expecting mothers need to be very careful about their diet and nutrition. Eating a well-balanced diet is crucial for the mother and the baby’s well-being. One way to ensure a healthy pregnancy is to include saffron in your pregnancy diet. Saffron is a spice that is commonly used in our cuisine and has several health benefits for pregnant women.  

What Is Saffron?

Saffron is a spice derived from the Crocus Sativus flower. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its various health benefits. Saffron is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are beneficial for the body. Let’s take a closer look at how saffron can benefit pregnant women.

Essential Nutrients found in Saffron for a Healthy Pregnancy

Saffron is a spice that is commonly used in Indian cuisine and has several essential nutrients that are important during pregnancy. It is a good source of iron, which is crucial for the production of red blood cells and prevents anemia. Saffron is also rich in vitamin A, which is vital for fetal development, and vitamin C, which helps in the absorption of iron. 

Additionally, saffron contains several antioxidants that help protect the body from oxidative stress and free radicals, supporting a healthy pregnancy. Incorporating saffron into an Indian diet can help expecting mothers receive the necessary nutrients to maintain a healthy pregnancy. However, it is important to consume saffron in moderation and after consulting with a doctor.

Psychological Benefits of Saffron during Pregnancy

Apart from its nutritional benefits, saffron also has psychological benefits that can help expecting mothers maintain a positive mood and good mental health during pregnancy.

  • It contains natural antidepressants that promote the production of mood-regulating neurotransmitters.
  • Saffron has calming effects, reducing anxiety and stress levels in pregnant women.
  • It is believed to improve memory and cognitive function, which can be helpful during pregnancy when women often experience brain fog.
  • Adding saffron to the diet can help pregnant women maintain a positive outlook and enjoy a stress-free pregnancy.
  • It is important to consume saffron in moderation and after consulting with a doctor, especially if taking antidepressant medication.

Medical Benefits of Saffron during Pregnancy

In addition to its nutritional and psychological benefits, saffron has several medical benefits that can protect maternal and fetal health during pregnancy

  • Saffron has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension, a condition that can lead to pre-eclampsia and endanger the health of both the mother and baby.
  • Saffron is also believed to have anti-spasmodic effects that can ease cramps and reduce the risk of miscarriage.
  • Saffron has been found to have a positive effect on digestion, which can alleviate pregnancy-related digestive issues such as constipation and bloating.
  • Saffron has been found to have a positive effect on uterine contractions, making it beneficial during labor.

Incorporating saffron into your pregnancy diet can help you benefit from its medicinal properties and ensure a healthy pregnancy. However, it is important to consume saffron in moderation and after consulting with a doctor.

 Using Saffron Safely: Risks and Precautions for Pregnant Women

While saffron can be beneficial during pregnancy, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and take precautions to use it safely.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Saffron should be consumed in moderation, as excessive consumption can have adverse effects on maternal and fetal health.
  • Pregnant women with a history of mood disorders or taking antidepressant medication should consult with a doctor before consuming saffron.
  • Saffron can be an allergen for some people, so it is important to test for allergies before consuming it.
  • Only purchase high-quality saffron from trusted sources to avoid adulteration with other substances.

Conclusion

 In conclusion, saffron has several benefits during pregnancy. It is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, can help alleviate anxiety and depression, regulate blood pressure, and reduce inflammation and pain. However, it is crucial to consume saffron in moderation and after consulting with a doctor. 

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best nutritionist in Kharghar, Mumbai. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries including a range of laparoscopic surgeries.

Do take an appointment with the best maternity hospital in Kharghar, Mumbai at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with Dt. Arti Singh , please book your appointment here .

FAQ’s:

  1. Is saffron safe to consume during pregnancy?
     Yes, saffron is safe to consume during pregnancy, but only in moderation. Do consult with a nutritionist to define the best diet plan for a healthy and safe pregnancy
     .
  2. How much saffron should a pregnant woman consume daily?
     Clinical studies have reported consumption of up to 1.5 gm per day of pure saffron to be safe.

  3. What are the nutritional benefits of saffron for pregnant women?
     Saffron is a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as iron, potassium, and vitamin B6, which can support the healthy growth and development of the fetus.

  4. Can saffron be harmful to the baby if consumed in excess?
     Yes, consuming excessive amounts of saffron can have adverse effects on maternal and fetal health, so it should be consumed in moderation, in consultation with your healthcare provider.

  5. What precautions should pregnant women take when consuming saffron?
     Pregnant women should take precautions such as testing for allergies, before consuming saffron. You should avoid adulterated saffron. It always best to consult with your healthcare provider before consuming saffron. 

Importance Of Good Gynaecologists In Women’s Health

Health checkup's at motherhood india hospital

Annual Gynaecologist Check-ups for Women’s Health

In order to sustain a healthy life, a woman must visit a good gynaecologist. A gynaecologist deals with the medical care of women and their reproductive system. Every woman should make a visit to a gynaecologist annually for better health and to manage other changes in their life. Women can face a lot of health issues that can become serious if not treated at the right time so it becomes essential to look for treatment.

Managing Changes and Complications with Gynaecological Care

From the very onset of puberty, there are significant changes like breast development, pregnancy to menopause, etc. during which the risk of diseases also increases in women. Managing these changes and other diseases is a field specialized by a gynaecologist who creates awareness and gives suggestions to maintain sound physical and mental health.
It is recommended to visit the gynaecologist between 13 and 15 years of age where a relationship can be established between the patient and the doctor. It can lead to creating awareness about reproductive health topics which includes menstruation. After crossing the age of puberty, during pregnancy, visiting a gynaecologist is a must-go. There are various aspects of pregnancy that can lead to high-risk conditions that can affect the mother and a gynaecologist comes to safeguard the person.

Gynaecologists: Educators and Counselors for Women’s Reproductive Health

The general recommendations and planning to reduce complications of the pregnancy are a way out where a gynaecologist plays an important role to help in the management of this period.

Throughout different stages of life, proper education, counselling and prevention methods are excellent guidance that can help a woman to maintain her overall health being. These services are rendered by gynaecologists who can also manage complications of major diseases as well. Therefore, in order to understand the importance of health, it is important to visit a gynaecologist once in a while.

Daily Nutrition Requirements For A Woman

balanced diet for women

Introduction to Daily Nutritional Requirements for Women

When it comes to healthy eating, your diet should encompass all the important nutrients that are required by your body to function as a healthy and strong unit.

Quick Fact:
On average, an adult woman requires between 1600 to 2400 calories a day.


Essential Nutrients for Women’s Health

A balanced diet comprises of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and lean protein. An adult woman should make a habit of consuming the following nutrients every day:
• Calcium: Bone health, along with the buildup of teeth and muscular function of the body corresponds to the requirement of calcium in the body. 1000 milligrams of calcium should be incorporated into the daily diet. Examples of calcium-rich foods: are milk, oranges, soybeans, okra etc.
• Iron: Iron is required for the transportation of oxygen to body tissues through the haemoglobin content in the blood along with rendering the role of balancing hormones. A woman should at least consume 18 milligrams of iron each day. Examples: cauliflower greens, turmeric powder, cowpea leaves etc.
• Vitamin D: Along with bone and muscular health, it is required for the proper functioning of the immune system and glucose metabolism. It should be taken at least 15 micrograms each day. Examples: Egg yolk, crimini mushroom, oranges etc.
• Vitamin E: It helps in boosting the immunity of the individual along with acting as an antioxidant and regulator of inflammation. With respect to its vivid role in the body, it should be consumed at least 15 milligrams each day. Examples: spinach, mustard greens, green leafy vegetables etc.
• Magnesium: Being involved in the regulation of blood pressure and protein synthesis, it is important in the working of enzymes for protein synthesis. 310-320 milligrams of magnesium are required every day. Example: avocado, tofu, legumes etc.
• Protein: They are important for growth and development, along with helping in the repairment of cells. On average, a woman should consume about 46 grams of protein. Examples: chickpeas, kidney peas, green peas etc.
The daily amount of nutrient intake can change at different stages of life, like during pregnancy where the intake of folic acid is supplemented for feeding an extra life in the body.

Tips To Get Your Body Ready For Pregnancy

Preconception checkup and screenings at motherhood india hospital

You may be planning for pregnancy, but there may be some questions in your mind regarding how to make your body ready for it. There are some steps that if taken will give you the best possible chance of having a healthy pregnancy along with a healthy baby.

Quick fact:
Your heart actually grows during pregnancy as the blood volume increases up to 50% which makes it beat faster.

The importance of preparing your body for pregnancy

Here are some important steps that you can plan to undertake in order to begin your motherhood easily:
• A preconception checkup: If you are ready to get pregnant, it is better that you schedule a preconception checkup. During this checkup, your overall health status will be reviewed along with the health history. Besides, there may some health areas where you need some improvement which can be analyzed by the doctor as well.

• Taking folic acid supplement: Before you start conception, it is advised that you should take 400 micrograms of folic acid every day though your first trimester. The process can be started 30 days prior to conception. By taking folic acid, you are decreasing the chances of birth defects in your baby.

• Avoid alcohol intake: Excessive drinking is prohibited when you are trying out for pregnancy, though a moderate drink is considered fine. While during pregnancy, it is better to avoid drinking as this may pose health problems for the developing fetus.

• Cut off smoking: Smoking can lead to miscarriage or premature birth, where you should halt this activity as it can also make it difficult for you to get pregnant.

• Eat well and exercise: Having healthy preconception diet including of whole grains, lean proteins, low fat diary can prepare your body for pregnancy. Moreover, exercising can keep your body strong and healthy.

• Monitor your weight: A healthy weight can make your pregnancy smoother where you can easily get pregnant as well. It is better to maintain a healthy weight before trying to conceive.

Food And Nutrition For New Moms After Childbirth

Postpartum Diet: Food to eat after delivery - Motherhood India Hopspital

The Importance of Postpartum Nutrition for New Moms

Pregnancy and childbirth cause significant physical and mental changes in a woman. Also, the thought that childbirth is the end of an entire phase of suffering, is a total myth because the postnatal stage is as hectic as the pregnancy and childbirth.

Also, the nutritional needs of a new mother who is taking care of herself, a newborn she may have should take precedence over weight loss in the immediate postpartum period. Therefore, the new mothers need to be sure to consume all the nutrients both they and the baby require.

Nutrient-Dense Foods for Postpartum Healing and Recovery

Salmon:

Salmon acts as a nutritional powerhouse in new moms as it is rich in a type of fat called DHA. The growth of your baby’s nervous system depends on DHA. DHA is present in all ,breast milk, although it is present in greater quantities in the milk of mothers who consume more DHA in their diets.

Beef:

The pregnancy cravings are a mood spoiler, aren’t they? Well, those annoying cravings stay even in the initial stage of childbirth. But the good news is, that beef doesn’t know any cravings. And Iron-rich meals, such as lean beef, might help new mothers feel more energized as it is loaded with Vitamin B-12.

Legumes:

Beans that are high in iron, especially those that are dark in color like black beans and kidney beans, are a fantastic breastfeeding food, especially for vegetarians. They provide high-quality, non-animal protein at an affordable price.

Eggs:

Eggs are a flexible food to get the protein you need each day. For breakfast, scramble a few eggs, or have an omelet and salad for dinner. To increase the amount of this crucial fatty acid in your milk, choose eggs that have been DHA-fortified.

Water:

Dehydration is a particular risk for breastfeeding mothers as it drains energy. Make sure you stay hydrated to maintain your energy levels and milk production. You can opt for juice and milk to fulfill some of your fluid needs.

Women’s Nutrition: What Is Considered “Healthy Food”?

Nutrition rich foods for women

Author – Motherhood Medical Team

Women’s body requires sufficient amount of nutrients to remain healthy and prevent any disease. A healthy food comprises of nutrients primarily required for the body to work efficiently. With respect to the food, a woman should always make a healthy choice which sustains the wellbeing of the body. The main components of healthy and balanced diet comprise of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals and water.

Healthy food should include all the varieties of food groups like whole grains, vegetables, healthy fats, dairy products, leans proteins and fruits. A woman should follow a healthy diet plan.

Foods rich in nutrients

• Whole grains such as whole-grain bread, cereals, flakes, brown rice etc. These should be consumed at least three ounces a day.

• Low fat dairy products including milk, yogurt or cheese.

• Protein foods as meat, eggs, poultry, beans tofu etc.

• Daily fresh fruits, canned or dried without added sugars

• Fresh vegetables

While this is the daily requirement of your body, most of the people consume industry food which is devoid of such ingredients. Many packaged foods with salt, sugar and saturated foods claim to be a good source of nutrition, where the amount of added calories is not taken into consideration. There are some nutritional facts that must be comprehended before opting for processed foods.

Nutritional Tips

• Sugar intake must be limited

• Women should not consume more than 1500 mg of salt.

• The less you exercise, the more proteins you should consume.

• Always add vitamins in your diet, even if they are not natural

It has been seen that over half of the population are not meeting the daily requirements of nutritious food where the sum is sometimes going beyond the total grains and protein recommendations. Therefore, it is important to look after the food you consume for healthy life.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced super specialists backed by the latest in infrastructure and facilities. We have the best Nutritionist customized diet plans for pregnant women and monitor their health throughout the period of pregnancy, in consultation with gynaecologists.

Do take an appointment with the Best Maternity Hospital at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with our doctors, please book your appointment here.

Nutrition & Mental Health: Can Diet Improve Your Mood?

Diet and mental health

Author – Motherhood Medical Team

A healthy and balanced diet concurs to the healthy physical life of a person. Besides having this benefit, a well-balanced diet can also affect our mental health in a positive manner. It has been observed that a good food can have positive impact on the overall mental wellness along with being productive in managing mental illness like depression and anxiety.

When a healthy diet is consumed that is rich in nutrients, it can help to better the mood along with increasing the required energy levels. When the body is having a nutritious diet, it gains the tendency to think well with the elements that compromise our regular intake.

Importance of good food for sound mental health

  • When the food rich in carbohydrate is consumed, it contains the energy derived from the blood glucose which is used for the functioning of the body, of which 20% energy is devoured by the brain. Thus, having less carbohydrates tends to less energy which leads to the feeling of weakness, tiredness and vague thinking. Besides, fluctuating glucose levels can impact on the mood leading to the feelings of lowness, irritation etc.
  • Proteins are also required by the brain to regulate the thoughts and feelings.
  • Vitamins and minerals can also affect the physical and mental health where the lack of iron and vitamin B can lead to the feeling of tiredness, irritation, lowness etc. Besides, deficiency of folate and selenium can lead to the increased chances of depression and negative mood states.
  • Staying hydrated is also important to concentrate and think clearly.

Therefore, eating a balanced diet full of nutrition can help in the improvement of your mood, provide you more energy and also help you in thinking clearly.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced super specialists backed by the latest in infrastructure and facilities. We have the best Nutritionist customized diet plans for pregnant women and monitor their health throughout the period of pregnancy, in consultation with gynaecologists.

Do take an appointment with the best women and childcare hospital at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with our doctors, please book your appointment here.

Nutritional support during pregnancy

How can nutrition help with pregnancy?

Pregnancy pertains to the physical and hormonal changes in the body where the needs of the person also alter. The growing fetus inside the womb requires sufficient nutrients during the stage of development. For coping the nutritional requirements that correspond to the healthy lifestyle, appropriate weight gain, a balanced diet, exercising regularly, vitamin and mineral supplementation should be considered.

Calorie intake during Pregnancy

During the course of pregnancy, 300 extra calories are required for maintaining the healthy body and suffice the needs of the fetus. To incorporate these calories, a balanced diet comprising of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains should be consumed. Besides, it is better to limit the intake of sugar and fats as a balanced diet can help in relieving the symptoms of pregnancy.

Fluid intake should also be taken into consideration during pregnancy as it forms a significant part of nourishing the body. Alongside water, juices and soups should also be consumed in subtle amounts.

Nutritional foods during pregnancy

  • For vitamin A and potassium: Carrots, sweet potatoes, amaranth, spinach, tomatoes, squash, bell peppers, cantaloupe, ragi, jowar, etc. are good source of vitamin and potassium as it helps to maintain the balance of fluids and electrolytes.
  • Calcium, potassium, Vitamin A and D: Fat free or low fat yogurt, milk, soya milk etc. should be a part of balance diet as calcium helps build the baby’s bones and regulate fluids.
  • Iron and folic acid: Grains inclusive of cereals reduces the risk of neural tube defects and increase the blood flow.
  • Proteins: Beans, chickpeas, soybean, chia seeds, quinoa, etc. provide proteins to the baby and mother which are required for the proper growth of baby, along with increasing blood supply.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced super specialists backed by the latest in infrastructure and facilities. We have the best Nutritionist customized diet plans for pregnant women and monitor their health throughout the period of pregnancy, in consultation with gynaecologists.

Do take an appointment with the best women and childcare hospital at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with our doctors, please book your appointment here.

Make Your Pregnancy Stylish

"How to stay stylish during pregnancy? "

Author – Motherhood Medical Team

Pregnancy poses a challenge of being up to date and following the fashion trends that may convert you into a stylish being. While it cuts out some alteration in the living patterns, there are ideas and ways to try out for making your pregnancy a stylish one.

There can be some transitions to map out this thing while also considering the safety approaches that must be followed during the pregnancy.

Staying Stylish During Pregnancy

  • The foremost thing that is important during pregnancy is the mental look you can cast on yourself so that you look sharp and put together. There is no need to feel grumpy all the time, though a pack of hormonal rush can induce so sometimes. However, you need to feel yourself and try to be excited about each single day, trying out some new ideas.
  • You don’t need to hide your tummy completely. One can wear form-fitting clothes, as long as they are covering your belly completely.
  • One can easily wear some old cardigans and blazers, open. This has to make a good fashion sense when fitted over a tank or camisole. In this way, the ready to go casual outlooks can make a great stylish fit.
  • Maternity or nursing printed dresses can make you feel comfortable as well as ready to head out on the way when paired with a sandal.
  • One can also choose to wear heels to give a better look. While stilettos and heels can be difficult to accommodate, wedges and kitten heels are safe as well as stylish to make you comfortable.
  • Getting yourself a denim that fits the protruding belly can be really a good option. Not only maternity jeans are comfortable to wear but can also boost up your confidence.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced super specialists backed by the latest in infrastructure and facilities. We have the best Nutritionist customized diet plans for pregnant women and monitor their health throughout the period of pregnancy, in consultation with gynaecologists.

Do take an appointment with the best women’s hospital at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with our doctors, please book your appointment here.

Postpartum Essentials For New Moms

Postpartum Symptoms in New Moms

Author: Dr. Vijayalakshmi MBBS, DGO

Consultant – Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Indiranagar

Postpartum Symptoms in New Moms

Perhaps one of the most charming moments for a woman is to become a mother. However, those moments can gradually wane weeks on, punctuated thereafter by moments of physical and emotional challenges. The body naturally experiences a lot of changes after giving birth and while the focus has turned to caring for the baby, most forget that postpartum care for the mother is by far the most important aspect to take note of.

Every birth is unique, and therefore tough to determine the exact postpartum life of the mom. Understanding the ways a mother’s body may change, and taking appropriate steps during this postpartum period is a priority that will help you ease your life.

Postpartum Period

What to expect:

Some of the common postpartum changes can be:

  1. Constipation
  2. Hormonal changes
  3. Haemorrhoids
  4. Discomfort from C-section incision
  5. Fatigue
  6. Abdominal pain
  7. Difficulty urinating
  8. Soreness of the breasts and nipples
  9. Perineum
  10. Vaginal bleeding or discharge.

Postpartum care tips to follow:

The various ways in which pregnancy and childbirth affect the body may seem very intimidating, especially for new mothers. It can actually be tough to adjust to these changes; but postpartum health care tips help immensely in healing and taking care of the body, after giving birth.

1. Heal your body

The body experiences a lot during childbirth be it a vaginal delivery or C-section. It’s not as if you will get rid of postpartum challenges within a few days. It takes time and sometimes even months for the body to recover completely after pregnancy and childbirth. Let’s look at some of the steps that one can follow to gradually heal:

  • Vaginal soreness: Sit on a pillow or padded ring, use ice packs and keep your perineum away from irritation by spraying the area with warm water while urinating.
  • C-section scar: Consult your doctor about the care you need for C-section scar and clean it gently before applying an antibiotic ointment.
  • Pelvic floor changes: Perform regular Kegel exercises to provide your vagina and perineum with enough recovery after stretching during delivery.
  • Tender breasts: Frequent breastfeeding helps relieve engorged breasts and you can also try ice packs, warm compresses and gentle massaging in case of aches.

2. Give priority to rest

The extreme physical toll of labour and then having sleepless nights with the new-born can exhaust the new mom. Do not forget to give priority to your sleep to avoid postpartum fatigue. Make it a point to take a quick snooze whenever the baby is asleep.

3. Ask for help

At times new moms may feel shy and hesitant to ask for help from others. Do not forget that you definitely need postpartum care, and life for a new mother can be much easier and recovery faster, once you have assistance from friends and family.

4. Keep moving

Regular exercise and physical activity have shown great results in recovery from postpartum symptoms. Exercise is a great tool to boost energy levels, relieve stress and strengthen muscles after childbirth, however, it is best to consult your doctor before getting on a regime. Usually, most of the doctors will ask you to avoid rigorous activity and focus on gentle exercise such as walking in the garden and so forth.

5. Healthy diet

Eating well and healthy is always beneficial in postpartum care. It will help you fight constipation and fatigue while assisting you to shed the extra weight you gained during pregnancy.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced super specialists backed by the latest in infrastructure and facilities. We have the best Gynaecologist specialists in Lullanagar, Pune.We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries including a range of laparoscopic surgeries.

Do take an appointment with the best Gynaecology hospital in Indiranagar at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr.Vijayalakshmi, please book your appointment here