Is it possible to use horseradish during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, the mother's responsibility doubles. If previously a product did not raise doubts, now it forces you to think about it. All spicy foods are on the list of undesirable foods for an expectant or nursing mother. In the article we will tell you whether it is possible to eat horseradish during pregnancy.
Can pregnant women eat horseradish?
The pungency of the root is due to mustard oil, which has unique antimicrobial and antiviral properties. This puts horseradish first on the list of useful products for colds. However, mustard oil is contraindicated for an expectant mother.
It is recommended that both future parents include this product in their diet when planning pregnancy, because:
- hormonal levels are strengthened;
- sperm quality improves;
- the chances of conception increase.
Horseradish during pregnancy can relieve cold and flu symptoms. The plant is effective in fighting viral infections. The essential oil of the root is a natural antiseptic. The amount of ascorbic acid is radically high - 61% of the daily value. This plant surpasses even lemon. Only rosehip and blackcurrant contain more vitamin C.
Important! During pregnancy, the reaction of a pregnant woman's body to horseradish has been little studied, so it is better to limit the use of the product.
The root is rich in vitamins B, PP, phytoncides and fiber, potassium and calcium, iron and sulfur.However, supermarket horseradish sold in jars has virtually no beneficial properties.
Expectant mothers can use horseradish with honey for colds. This plant is indispensable in the treatment of cough. The fresh root must be ground in a food processor using a meat grinder or grater and mixed with honey in a 1:1 ratio. It is recommended to use ½ tsp. 2-3 times a day.
Before starting treatment, you need to consult a gynecologist.
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Is it possible to use horseradish while breastfeeding?
It has been established that spicy foods change the taste of a nursing mother's milk when consumed in large quantities.. Horseradish can give milk a bitter and pungent taste, causing the baby to refuse the breast.
The root should not be consumed while breastfeeding due to its negative effect on children's digestion. In the first months of life, the baby’s body is just adapting to this world, and therefore does not tolerate some foods well. As a result, the baby may develop allergies, colic, and disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract.
On the first day, it is enough to try a small dose and observe the child’s reaction. For allergies to manifest, 4 hours are enough, for digestive disorders – 12 hours.
Reference. Like any new product, it is better to eat horseradish in the morning so that you can monitor the child’s condition throughout the day.
If there is no negative reaction in the baby, the mother can occasionally consume horseradish in small quantities. Fresh and natural products are allowed.Horseradish in jars from the supermarket contains preservatives, dyes and other harmful substances. In addition, the usefulness of the pureed root lasts only 7 days.
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Harm and possible consequences
Even in absolutely healthy people, erucic acid in the product is difficult to digest and overloads the liver and gastrointestinal tract. This is precisely the basis for the ban on eating it during pregnancy. Women's immunity during pregnancy is already weakened.
Horseradish stimulates the secretion of gastric juice, increases appetite, and overeating is contraindicated during pregnancy. The root increases thirst, and the second half of pregnancy is often accompanied by edema. It is recommended for a pregnant woman to exclude spicy foods from her diet: forget about pepper, mustard, garlic and onions, vinegar and ginger.
Horseradish increases blood pressure. This is another disadvantage if pregnancy is accompanied by hypertension. The product also reduces blood clotting, so it is contraindicated if you are prone to bleeding.
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Conclusion
The menu of a pregnant and lactating woman is no different from the diet of a person leading a healthy lifestyle. As for horseradish, it is an excellent remedy for colds, but you can use it during pregnancy and breastfeeding only after consulting a doctor.