Pregnancy is a time when a woman’s body goes through many changes, including nutritional needs. Varying taste buds, the vast array of symptoms, and all the unexpected 'side effects,' can make it quite a task to find sources of comfort during these months.
In addition to routine exercise, it's important to maintain a healthy diet during pregnancy, which includes whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and other nutrient-dense foods... such as buckwheat!
In this article, we will look at the benefits of consuming buckwheat, and buckwheat tea, during pregnancy.
What is Buckwheat?
Buckwheat is a gluten-free pseudo-grain, meaning it is not a true cereal grain but is consumed in a similar way to grains. It is a good source of protein, fibre, and essential minerals like magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus. Buckwheat is also rich in flavonoids, which are plant compounds that have antioxidant properties.
What is Buckwheat Tea?
Buckwheat tea, also known as soba-cha, has gained popularity in recent years, though it has been consumed in certain countries in Asia, including Japan, Korea, and China, for centuries. The tea is made from roasted golden buckwheat seeds, and it has a nutty, earthy flavour. It contains no caffeine and is safe to drink during pregnancy.
The Benefits of Drinking Buckwheat Tea During Pregnancy
1. Helps with Digestion & Bloating
Buckwheat tea is a good source of fibre, which can help prevent constipation and promote healthy digestion. This is particularly important during pregnancy, as constipation (and bloating) is a common problem due to hormonal changes!
2. Calming & Soothing
The subtle, nutty flavour of buckwheat is what promotes the feeling of calm and tranquility, especially in the relaxing state of a cup of tea. It provides the feeling of a nourishing treat with every sip. Buckwheat has also been researched for its contents of magnesium, which helps one relax - another essential mineral that is often neglected and burnt through in the body in times of stress or emotional instability.
3. Caffeine-free
It's recommended that pregnant women limit their caffeine-intake to less than 200 mg a day, since caffeine is a stimulant and can increase your blood pressure and heart rate (both of which are not recommended during pregnancy), as well as lead to pregnancy complications. It is therefore ideal to consume herbal alternatives such as buckwheat tea - with it's roasted and toasty notes, it makes for a good substitute for coffee, and can also be had with milk as a "buckwheat latte"
4. Rich in Antioxidants
Buckwheat tea contains high levels of antioxidants, which can help protect the body against cell damage and reduce inflammation. Antioxidants are particularly important during pregnancy, as they can help reduce the risk of complications such as preeclampsia and gestational diabetes.
5. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar Levels
Buckwheat tea has a low glycemic index (GI), which means it can help regulate blood sugar levels. During pregnancy, blood sugar levels tend to fluctuate due to hormonal changes, and consuming foods that can help regulate blood sugar levels can be beneficial. This is important as high blood sugar levels can increase the risk of gestational diabetes and other complications. Low GI foods also help with a slow-release of energy, giving you a steady boost over the prenatal & postnatal months.
6. Gluten-free
Buckwheat is naturally gluten-free, which is important for pregnant women who have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
7. High in Nutrients
Buckwheat is a nutrient-dense food that contains several essential vitamins and minerals that are important for fetal development, such as folate, iron, and zinc. Folate is important for the healthy growth of the neural tube, while iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the baby. Zinc is important for the development of the baby's immune system.
8. Healthy Heart
Buckwheat contains compounds called flavonoids, which have been shown to have a protective effect on heart health. This is important during pregnancy when the body is working hard to support the developing fetus.
Precautions & Side Effects of Consuming Buckwheat During Pregnancy
Allergies: While rare, some people can be allergic to buckwheat. If you have a history of food allergies, it's important to speak to your doctor before consuming buckwheat.
Preparation: It is important to properly prepare buckwheat before consuming it. Raw buckwheat can be difficult to digest, so it is best to soak it overnight or cook it before consuming.
Moderation: While buckwheat is generally considered safe during pregnancy, it is important to consume it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Consuming large amounts of any food or drink can cause digestive discomfort.
Buckwheat is a nutritious food that can be a great addition to a pregnant woman’s diet. It provides essential nutrients, regulates blood sugar, and promotes digestive and heart health.
As always, it's recommended to speak to your healthcare provider before consuming any new food or beverage during pregnancy.
