Why Are All of My Pregnant Friends Eating Dates?
Because they’re clever…
It’s pretty well known by now that eating dates prenatally can help with preparing your cervix, if you’re interested in that kind of thing. There have been studies that show that those who consume 4-6 Deglet Noor dates per day in the last 4 weeks of pregnancy will have a more “favorable” cervix by the time your birthing begins. I know what you’re thinking – that’s a lot of dates. Maybe. But they can be thrown in somewhere… and it’s worth it for all of the sited benefits.
Studies have shown that those who consumed Deglet Noor dates (60-80 grams daily) were more likely to have spontaneous onset of birthing waves, have intact membranes (their water did not break) upon admission to the hospital or active birthing time, and have less postpartum bleeding! Wow! I wasn’t so sure I believed the hype. That is, until I started seeing it with my own eyes.
Dates also have many health benefits. Thanks to Baby Chick for this thoughtful breakdown.
Fiber – we all know that fiber helps relieve constipation, helps you stay full, but did you know that it also helps lower your risk for gestational diabetes and preeclampsia? Dates contain a combination of soluble and insoluble fiber and thus are helpful in maintaining your digestive system.
Magnesium – this supports your muscular health and helps to alleviate muscle spasms and cramps during pregnancy.
Potassium – this is one of the best electrolytes and it helps you maintain water/salt balance which also helps regulate blood pressure and regulate your nervous system.
Natural sugars (fructose) — it offers high energy, but thankfully has a low glycemic index, easily breaks down in the body and does not usually spike blood sugar levels. This is why eating dates during your pregnancy and/or your labor is an excellent choice. (If you have GDM, please consult your provider and check your BGL to ensure that dates are not giving you a spike.)
Vitamin K – helps maintain proper blood clotting and keeps your bones healthy.
You can look up many different ways to get your dates in, like smoothies, stuffing them with almond/peanut butter, chopping up and throwing on a salad, in savory dishes, granola ect... You don’t have to eat them all at once, so spread them out throughout the day and get them in however you can. Tip: Lara Bars are made with dates!
Dates are one of my top recommendations for physical prep. Read more about that HERE.
