Happilo’s Guide to Eating Dry Fruits During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a life-changing journey that brings both excitement and responsibility. Expecting mothers need to pay extra attention to their diet to ensure their own health and that of their baby. One of the best additions to a pregnancy diet is dry fruits and nuts. These nutrient-dense superfoods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins that support both maternal and foetal development. However, with so many choices, it is important to know which dry fruits are safe, how to consume them, and the best time to eat them.

While protein in dry fruits and their overall nutritional benefits make them a great option, concerns around adulteration in dry fruits and nuts have also risen. This guide explores the best dry fruits to consume during pregnancy, the best ways to include them in your diet, and how to choose the purest, safest options.

Adulteration in Dry Fruits & Nuts

With increasing demand, dry fruits and nuts are often prone to adulteration. Chemical treatments, artificial polishing, and synthetic preservatives are some of the methods used to enhance appearance and shelf life. 

Consuming adulterated dry fruits may lead to various health issues, including digestive discomfort and exposure to harmful chemicals. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that you consume only high-quality, unadulterated dry fruits. 

Here’s how you can ensure the nutritional value of dry fruits remains intact:

1. Buy from trusted brands: Always opt for reputed brands like Happilo, known for quality and purity.
2. Check for signs of adulteration: If dry fruits have an unnatural shine, chemical residues, or an odd taste, they might be adulterated. Some nuts are also treated with synthetic food colour, which can be harmful when consumed regularly.
3. Rinse before consumption: Washing dry fruits, especially fig dry fruit, can help remove surface contaminants. This simple step ensures that you are not ingesting any chemicals that might have been used in the preservation process.
4. Go for organic options: Choosing organic products minimises the risk of synthetic preservatives. They are grown without harmful pesticides, making them a safer choice for expectant mothers.

Dry Fruits to Eat During Pregnancy, Ideal Time & How to Consume Them

Dry fruits are a powerhouse of essential nutrients, making them a perfect addition to a pregnancy diet. They provide the necessary vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support both mother and baby. Knowing the right dry fruits to consume, the ideal time, and the best way to eat them can enhance their benefits and ensure maximum absorption of nutrients. 

Below is a detailed guide on the best dry fruits for pregnancy and how to incorporate them into your daily routine.

1. Almonds (बादाम)

Nutritional value of almonds are very high. They are packed with proteins, fibre, and healthy fats. They aid in brain development, regulate blood sugar levels, and provide a steady source of energy. Regular consumption of almonds can also help in reducing pregnancy-induced hypertension and maintaining a healthy heart.

1. Ideal Time to Eat: Soaked almonds in the morning on an empty stomach are best.
2. How to Consume: Soak overnight and eat raw, or blend into smoothies. You can also use crushed almonds mixed in warm milk to enhance its benefits.

2. Walnuts (अखरोट)

A great source of Omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts promote brain development in babies. They also help in reducing stress, anxiety, and inflammation, making them perfect for pregnancy.

1. Ideal Time to Eat Mid-morning or as an evening snack.
2. How to Consume Eat raw, add to yoghurt, or sprinkle over salads. Walnuts can also be used in baking or homemade energy bars.

3. Dried Apricots (खुबानी)

Rich in iron and fibre, dried apricots help prevent anaemia and support digestion. They also contain essential vitamins that help in maintaining skin health and hormonal balance.

1. Ideal Time to Eat: Afternoon snack.
2. How to Consume: Eat raw or chop into porridge. They can also be blended into smoothies for added sweetness.

4. Dried Figs (अंजीर)

High in calcium, iron, and potassium, fig dry fruit helps in bone health, digestion, and boosts immunity. The natural laxative properties of figs also prevent constipation, which is a common pregnancy issue.

1. Ideal Time to Eat: Evening snack or bedtime.
2. How to Consume: Eat soaked figs or blend into a milkshake. You can also pair them with other dry fruits for a nutrient-packed trail mix.

5. Raisins (किशमिश)

The benefits of raisins include improved digestion, reduced acidity, and iron for better haemoglobin levels. They are also packed with natural sugars, making them a great energy booster for pregnant women.

1. Ideal Time to Eat: Mid-morning or after meals.
2. How to Consume: Eat raw, mix with nuts, or add to desserts. Soaking raisins overnight and consuming them in the morning can also help in improving digestion.

Also read - 7 Benefits of Kishmish You Must Know About

6. Cashews (काजू)

Cashews are a rich source of healthy fats and magnesium, essential for nerve function. They also help in controlling blood pressure and maintaining strong bones. However, be mindful of the cashew nut price and ensure that you buy high-quality cashews that meet all your needs and stay within your budget.

1. Ideal Time to Eat: Afternoon snack.
2. How to Consume: Eat in moderation due to high calorie content. Avoid salted or roasted versions. You can also add cashews to curries or grind them into a paste for a creamy texture in dishes.

7. Makhanas (मखाना)

Makhanas are a low-calorie snack rich in antioxidants, protein, and essential minerals. They support heart health, help in digestion, and provide a feeling of fullness, preventing unnecessary cravings.

1. Ideal Time to Eat: Evening snack.
2. How to Consume: Roast lightly and season with mild spices. You can also use makhanas in kheer or other desserts for a nutritious treat.

Including dry fruits and nuts in your pregnancy diet is a natural and effective way to enhance nutrition. From almonds to raisins, these superfoods support overall well-being. However, quality matters! Always buy from trusted brands like Happilo to ensure you are consuming pure, chemical-free, and high-quality dry fruits.

When shopping for dry fruits, always be mindful of the prices and other factors that indicate premium quality. Investing in good nutrition is investing in a healthy pregnancy.