What Are The Side Effects of Coconut Water During Pregnancy?

To pregnant moms: don’t let everyone around play doctor and moral police you into following certain diets. Instead, talk to your healthcare providers if you have any doubts. Reading pregnancy books and blogs also helps.  

I’m sure you are considering adding different beverages and health drinks to your diet. If you are considering coconut water, you must know about the benefits and side effects of coconut water during pregnancy. 

In this article, I have included the benefits of consuming coconut water during pregnancy, its side effects, and some myths. So, without any delay, let’s start.  

Side Effects of Coconut Water During Pregnancy

There are different benefits of consuming coconut water during pregnancy. But even the life-giving elixir can turn into poison if it is not consumed in moderation. Coconut water is no exception, most importantly during pregnancy.   

Here are a few side effects of coconut water during pregnancy –

High Level of Potassium

There is a high level of potassium present in coconut water. Although essential, a high amount of potassium intake can cause disturbances. Too much coconut water during pregnancy can cause high potassium levels in the blood. The result is hyperkalemia, which bothers you with symptoms like fatigue, irregular heart rhythms, and nausea.  

It’s best to discuss your coconut water intake with your healthcare provider and consume coconut water in moderation.  

Natural Sugar

Coconut water has natural sugar. So, it’s a good option if you want to drink something sweet and refreshing. But watch out for the natural sugar. Excessive consumption of coconut water can cause weight gain.  

If you must continue drinking coconut water, try it in moderation or balance it with other meals. You can also incorporate exercises in your daily routine if you are worried about weight gain.  

Potential Allergic Reaction

It’s best to avoid as many problems as possible during pregnancy. Some people are allergic to coconut water. If you are allergic to coconut water,  avoiding it during pregnancy is better. Common symptoms of such allergic reactions include itching, swelling, and more. If you need alternatives, you can discuss them with your healthcare provider.  

Itching and swelling are severe forms of allergic reaction in these cases. If you are facing any of these, stop drinking coconut water immediately. It’s best to consult with your healthcare provider for further course of action.  

Glycemic Index 

The glycemic index of coconut water is moderately higher compared to water, and it is lower than other drinks with sugar. Pregnant women with gestational diabetes usually avoid simple carbs like potatoes, sugary drinks, dairy products, etc.  

If coconut water is putting you at risk of developing gestational diabetes, it’s probably best to avoid it. While at risk, you can check your blood sugar levels and discuss the problem with your healthcare provider.  

Electrolyte Imbalance 

Electrolyte imbalance can cause fatal complications during pregnancy. Some examples would be cardiac arrest or C-section, fetal distress, birth asphyxia, and more. Coconut water has electrolyte imbalance. However, excessive consumption of coconut water can disrupt your body’s electrolyte balance. The worst-case scenario can be complications like hyperkalemia. 

Coconut water has some side effects if consumed during pregnancy. But most side effects don’t appear until somebody drinks excessive amounts. Or someone with an allergic reaction to coconut water might have some trouble. 

Comparatively, there are more benefits to drinking coconut water than there are side effects. A handful of them would help you stay hydrated during pregnancy, provide your body with more nutrients, and improve your overall digestive system.  

However, it’s important to stay aware of the side effects of coconut water during pregnancy. When you risk developing complications, you must consult your healthcare provider about the possibilities. Follow the dietary chart they provide.  

Coconut Water and Pregnancy Myths

Coconut water has been a homemade solution to many complications. But how many of them are useful, and how many are myths? Here are some facts you should know about coconut water and how it’s helpful sometimes while sometimes it’s not.  

Myth: Coconut Water Cures Morning Sickness 

Don’t let baseless recommendations fool you. Coconut water has some nutrients and essential minerals. But it does not cure morning sickness. Morning sickness is a common pregnancy symptom. While a balanced diet, proper lifestyle advice, and hydration help, coconut water is no direct solution.  

Myth: It gives you fairer babies  

There is no scientific study suggesting that drinking coconut water gives you a fair baby. Drinking coconut water does not magically transform your baby’s skin color. Skin color depends more on genetics, not on what you consume during your pregnancy.  

Myth: It can replace prenatal vitamins 

You cannot replace the vitamins and nutrients your body needs during pregnancy with coconut water. Surely, it’s good for your health, but it does not have all the vitamins and nutrients you need during pregnancy. Prenatal vitamins help mothers and their children during pregnancy. Coconut water isn’t a replacement for them.  

Myth: Coconut Water Removes Stretch Marks Developed During Pregnancy 

Stretch Marks are the results of skin elasticity and genetics. Yes, coconut water has antioxidants. But, it’s not a solution to stretch marks. There is no proof of coconut water curing pregnancy stretch marks.  

Myth: Coconut Water Reduces Labor Pain 

Trust me, your healthcare provider knows better. Coconut water does not help reduce labor pain. It’s best to discuss how you will manage pain during labor with your healthcare. They can provide different methods of relief.  

Myth: it’s safe for hydration during pregnancy   

Coconut water does help with hydration. Plus, it contains electrolytes and ample amounts of potassium and is low in calories.  However, pregnant women with the risk of gestational diabetes should consume it in moderation. Also, if you are allergic to coconut water, you can avoid consuming it.  

If you aren’t at any risk, as mentioned above, drinking coconut water in moderation can do good. It’s best to consult your healthcare provider before drinking coconut water in high quantities.  

Coconut Water: Benefits During Pregnancy

 You must avoid a few complications during pregnancy, and coconut can help. Here are some benefits of drinking coconut water during pregnancy – 

Stay Hydrated  

Urinary tract infections and labor problems usually happen due to a lack of hydration. Coconut water can work as a healthy source of hydration aside from water. It has electrolytes, sodium, potassium, and magnesium. These are elements that keep your body hydrated.  

Get Enough Nutrients  

Coconut water also helps ensure that you are getting enough nutrients while staying hydrated. It’s a better choice compared to all the artificial sugary beverages available in the market. There are some healthy nutrients like calcium, manganese, and vitamin C. All these elements are linked to your maternal health and fetal development.  

Helping With Digestion 

One of the many complications women face during pregnancy is constipation. Bloating is also an issue they often struggle with. Coconut water has a mild laxative effect that helps women get through uncomfortable situations. Also, it promotes regular bowel movements.  

Blood Pressure

Gestational hypertension or high blood pressure during pregnancy can put both the mother and the baby at risk. Coconut water is rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure levels in your body. While it improves blood pressure levels, it reduces the chances of developing complications such as preeclampsia.  

Final Words

To sum it up, coconut water is nutritious and refreshing for anybody, including pregnant women. While consuming it or adding coconut water to your diet, staying aware of the nutritional benefits is important. It’s even more important to keep the potential risks in check.  

While it’s a better alternative to artificial beverages with lots of sugar, it can cause several health risks to specific people. Women who have gestational diabetes or are allergic to coconut water should avoid coconut water. It’s better to consult with the healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet regarding coconut water.

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