Benefits of using Jaggery during Pregnancy

Are you pregnant and wondering if it is okay to eat jaggery? Yes, it's safe!

Jaggery is a healthy sugar substitute, and it has many health benefits that are good for both the mother and baby during pregnancy. Read on to know how jaggery can be consumed safely in pregnancy.

What is Jaggery?

Jaggery has been used in many cultures for centuries, and it's an ancient sweetener that is still popular today. 

Jaggery, also known as gur or panela, is a traditional sugar that comes from the sap of palm trees, sugarcane juice and can be made into liquid, blocks or powdered forms.

This natural sweetener is rich in minerals like potassium, magnesium, zinc, and iron, making it ideal for those looking to gain more nutrients through their diet.

Benefits of Using Jaggery during Pregnancy

Jaggery is rich in nutrition. It contains minerals like Calcium: 103 (mg), Sodium: 0.432 (mg), Iron: 0.411 (mg), Potassium: 229 (mg), Magnesium: 80.9 (mg), Phosphorous: 2.3 (mg) and B Vitamins, and other micronutrients (1). Which do pregnant women need essential nutrients to have healthy pregnancies.

The nutritional profile of jaggery rich in minerals, vitamins and micronutrients make it a healthful alternative to refined sugar. 

Here are some other benefits you can enjoy when using jaggery in your diet:

1. Healthier digestive system - You will have a more beneficial digestive system because sugar levels stay consistent throughout your body.
2. Vital Immune System - Jaggery is a rich source of iron and other minerals that help in building a strong immune system.
3. Rich In Potassium - Jaggery is also rich in potassium (1143 mg/kg), which helps control electrolyte balance in the body.
4. Rich in Calcium - Jaggery is also rich in calcium (1030 mg/kg), which helps to build strong bones and teeth.
5. Helps in Preventing Constipation - Jaggery is a good laxative and helps in preventing constipation.

So, these are some of the benefits that you can enjoy when using jaggery during your pregnancy. Make sure to include it in your diet for a healthy and happy pregnancy!

 It is highly recommended to consult a doctor if you already have diabetes or are at risk of gestational diabetics before you start adding jaggery to your diet.

Side effects of excessive use of Jaggery in Pregnancy

Jaggery is an unrefined sugar, and it is mainly different from sugar in the making process. In sugar making, centrifugal action is performed, which removes molasses; however, in jaggery, this nutrient-rich molasses are not removed,  making jaggery more nutritious than sugar. 

Other chemicals like sulphur are used in sugar manufacturing, is absent in the chemical-free jaggery making process.

In the end, jaggery is an unrefined form of sugar. 

100g of jaggery contains approximately Carbohydrates: 96 (g), Total Sugar: 95.44 (g), Reducing Sugar: 8.04 (g), Sucrose on a dry basis: 89.72 (g). (2) Though it includes nutrition, minerals and vitamins.

One should not consume too much that to add more sugar to your diet.

How much should be consumed per day 

Jaggery consumption in moderate quantity is advisable during pregnancy which can benefit to baby and mother's health. 

Jaggery recipes that can be tried in pregnancy (Laddoo, halwa) 

Laddoo

Halwa 

Chikki/ Bar

Are you excited to try out these recipe's with jaggery? Let me know in comment which recipe you liked most.