10 Health Benefits Of Eating Apples During Pregnancy

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Eating a well-balanced diet during pregnancy helps you stay healthy and fit. It is known how essential it is to eat vegetables and fruits during pregnancy to get the necessary minerals and vitamins. And one such fruit is apples. Consuming apples during pregnancy has many health benefits. So, read on to know more about the safety, health benefits, nutritional value, possible side effects, and interesting ways to include apples in your diet during the prenatal period.

In This Article

Is It Safe To Eat Apples During Pregnancy?

Wash the apples before you eat to eliminate any pesticide residues
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Yes, apples are safe to eat when you are pregnant (1). They are highly nutritious and rich in antioxidants, phytonutrientsiXNatural chemicals and nutrients obtained from plants. , flavonoids, and dietary fiber. However, wash the fruit thoroughly before you eat to eliminate any pesticide residues on them. Also, avoid eating seeds of an apple, because they contain cyanide that is harmful to the body (2). Also avoid eating apple at night as it may cause indigestion.

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A cohort study indicated that apple intake during pregnancy might help protect the baby from wheezing and asthmaiXA lung disease in which the airways get swollen, narrowed, and blocked by mucus. (20).

What Are The Health Benefits Of Eating Apples During Pregnancy?

Eating apples during pregnancy can help:

1. Prevent anemia

Apples are rich in iron and help boost the hemoglobin level in the blood and prevent anemiaiXA condition in which a person does not have enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to the tissues.  (3). The risk of anemia is higher during pregnancy, and if neglected, it could lead to preterm labor and low birth weight in babies.

2. Improve immunity

Regular intake of apples during pregnancy builds resistance and wards off infections
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Apples are a rich source of vitamin C, which on regular intake aids the immune system in building resistance and wards off infections and diseases (4).

3. Prevent free radicals

Flavonoids and phytochemicals are powerful antioxidants in apples that combat free radicals from the body. Free radicals otherwise can lead to oxidative damage of cells, DNA and their functioning ability (5).

4. Boost energy instantly

Simple sugars including glucose, fructose, and sucrose present in apples provide an immediate energy boost. Having an apple handy can be helpful when you feel hungry or have low blood sugar issues (6).

5. Protect your heart

Daily consumption of apples reduces bad cholesterol levels, plaque formation, and inflammation of artery walls (7).

6. Prevent cancer

Regular consumption of apples reduces the risk of lung, colorectaliXRelated to the colon and rectum. , digestive tract, and breast cancers. The phytochemical compounds in the fruit are known to possess anti-cancer properties (8).

7. Prevent respiratory issues

Eating apples during pregnancy can lower the risk of developing childhood asthma and allergic diseases. The antioxidants present in apples help strengthen your lungs (9).

8. Manage morning sickness and nausea

Consuming apples may not treat pregnancy nausea, but small amounts of apple juice and bland foods like applesauce are often recommended to manage morning sickness (10). Apples are easy to digest and contain natural sugars that can be a quick energy source. Besides, they contain pectin, a soluble fiber that can help absorb excess stomach acid and may be beneficial in cases where nausea is triggered by indigestion. A randomized controlled trial involving 72 expecting women found that sweet apples (Fuji variety) had the highest agreeability and lowest nausea score compared to other foods such as watermelon, cream crackers, and white bread (11). Hence, including apples in the prenatal diet can be a beneficial choice for would-be mothers.

9. Aid in digestion

Apples help in proper digestion
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Apples are fiber-rich fruits that help in proper digestion also, it contains pectins, which help to bulk up stool and promote smooth bowel movements (12). It is also helpful to treat diarrhea or constipation.

Mary Sabat, a nutritionist and certified personal trainer from Alpharetta, Georgia, says, “Eating apples helps regulate blood sugar levels, which can reduce hunger and cravings. However, if a pregnant woman eats just an apple with no other foods and is a type 2 diabetic or gestational diabetic, an apple may stimulate hunger by raising insulin levels. An apple contains a good amount of sugar, so the rise in blood sugar for a diabetic could lead to hunger shortly, as too much insulin drops the sugar levels.”

protip_icon Research finds
A prospective study showed that higher apple intake is significantly associated with lower gestational diabetesiXDiabetes that occurs during pregnancy. risk (21).

Next, we tell you about the nutritional values of this fruit.

Nutritional Value Of Apples

100 grams of raw apple (including peel) contains (13):

NUTRIENTAMOUNT
Calories52kcal
Water85.56g
Carbohydrates13.81g
Sugars10.39g
Protein0.26g
Fiber2.4g
Fat0.17g
Vitamins
Thiamin (Vitamin B1)0.017mg
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)0.026mg
Niacin (Vitamin B3)0.091mg
Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)0.041mg
Folate (Vitamin B9)3mcg
Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C)4.6mg
Retinol (Vitamin A)54IU
Alpha-tocopherol (Vitamin E)0.18mg
Phylloquinone (Vitamin K)2.2mcg
Electrolytes
Potassium107mg
Sodium1mg
Minerals
Calcium6mg
Iron0.12mg
Phosphorus11mg
Magnesium5mg
Zinc0.04mg
Lipids
Total saturated fatty acids0.028g
Total monounsaturated fatty acids0.007g
Total polyunsaturated fatty acids0.051g

g=grams; mg=milligrams; IU=International Units

Are Green Apples As Good As Red Apples?

Green apples are not only delicious, but they are also a good source of nutrition. They are as good and healthy as red apples, albeit with a slight variance. They have a thicker peel, are crispier and sour. They are rich in soluble fiber that helps reduce cholesterol levels, manages weight and regulates blood sugar levels (14).

While eating a reasonable amount of apple is good for both mother and the baby, overindulging in it can be a bad idea.

protip_icon Quick fact
Green apples are more acidic than red apples, and their intake might aggravate acidity in sensitive pregnant women (22).

Side Effects Of Excess Apple Consumption During Pregnancy

Be mindful of the number of apples in your diet, for overconsumption of the fruit can cause the following complications.

  • Affects metabolism: Overconsumption of apples increases carbohydrate intake, which in turn increases sugar levels, slows down metabolism and prevents your body from burning fat.
  • Weight issues: Consuming too many apples will increase the calorie intake, thus leading to weight management issues later during pregnancy.

The daily recommended dosage of apples for pregnant women is two to four servings a day, of which one serving equals one medium-sized whole apple (15).

Consuming too many apples during pregnancy may cause weight management issues
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Ways To Include Apples In Your Pregnancy Diet

Consume two to four servings of apple in a day
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Eating fresh fruits just as they are can be boring sometimes. So you may try different kinds of mouth-watering apple recipes to keep yourself happy and healthy. Here are a few.

  • Fresh apple juice twice a day will help satisfy your thirst. You might also mix other fruits or vegetables such as a carrot or beetroot to make a mocktailiXA non-alcoholic drink made by mixing juices and herbs with soda or water. .
  • Combine brown sugar and honey with apples and bake them until tender and golden brown.
  • Dried apples or crispy apple chips are also good snacking options.
  • Homemade applesauce tastes good with pancakes, yogurt or cottage cheese.
  • Apple tea, which is also an excellent substitute for regular tea, is soothing and refreshing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I eat apples with skin when pregnant?

Apple skin contains increased antioxidant and phenolic compounds and may have many health benefits (16). However, the peels of fruit and vegetables may contain the parasite toxoplasma, which causes toxoplasmosis leading to vision problems or swollen lymph nodes (17) (18). Therefore, taking necessary precautions while consuming fruits and vegetables with peel, such as washing them thoroughly before eating, is better.

2. What does craving apples mean when pregnant?

Cravings during pregnancy are usual. However, specific cravings may indicate an underlying condition. Apple cravings during pregnancy may be due to vitamin deficiency (19).

An anonymous mother and blogger had an intense craving for apples during pregnancy. She says, “In my first trimester with Zuzu (her baby), I craved apples. Apple pie, applesauce, apple juice, whole apples, apple cider… I ate an apple a day plus anything else with apple ingredients that I could put in my mouth (i).”

3. What is the best time to eat apples during pregnancy?

Sabat recommends, “The best time to eat an apple during pregnancy is in the morning or as a snack between meals. Since apples can be filling, a pregnant woman should ensure she has room for a balanced meal at meal times.”

It is safe to consume apples during pregnancy, and they provide antioxidants and many essential nutrients. Apples are foods rich in iron that prevent anemia and boost immunity in pregnant mothers. Although good, you may consume apples in moderation since they are also rich sources of glucose and may lead to excess weight gain. Ensure to purchase good quality apples from trusted, wax- and chemical-free sellers. Apple juices may not be a good choice since fibers and many nutrients are lost while making, and commercial juices may contain artificial flavors and preservatives.

Infographic: Delicious Ways To Include Apples In Pregnancy Diet

The saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” must be familiar to you. Apple is a delicious, nutrient-dense fruit that is safe to consume while pregnant. However, it’s important to make sure you have apples in healthy and proper ways. Learn how to enjoy apples while expecting by browsing the infographic below.

how to eat apples when you are pregnant (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

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Key Pointers

  • Apples are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, but should be consumed fresh and in moderation during pregnancy.
  • Apples can help boost immunity, aid digestion, and prevent oxidative cell damage and anemia in pregnant women.
  • Apples can be incorporated into a pregnancy diet in various forms, including juice, chips, sauces, and tea.
  • However, excessive consumption of apples during pregnancy may negatively impact metabolism and lead to weight gain.
Apples During Pregnancy_illustration

Image: Dall·E/MomJunction Design Team

Personal Experience: Source

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. Jane Dimer; Food Choices During Pregnancy; Kaiser Permanente (2014)
  2. Diana Lutz; Washington University in St. Louis (2010)
  3.  Foods Rich In Iron; Grove Medical
  4. Kelly Mcgill; The Fruits Of Research: The Truth About Vitamin C And The Common Cold;As Told By Stanford Students (2016)
  5. C. Y. Lee & N. L. Smith; Apples: An Important Source of Antioxidants in the American Diet;New York State Horticultural Society (2000)
  6. Boosting Your Energy: How To Jump-Start Your Natural Energy And Fight Fatigue; Harvard University (2016)
  7. Apples; Nutrition Live (2012)
  8.  Apples; The President and Fellows of Harvard College (2018)
  9. S M Willers et al.;Maternal food consumption during pregnancy and asthma,respiratory and atopic symptoms in 5‐year‐old children; Thorax (2007)
  10. Morning Sickness; Cleveland Clinic
  11. Gi Ni Tan et al.; (2021);Rating of four different foods in women with hyperemesis gravidarum: a randomised controlled trial;NCBI
  12. Apples; Harvard School of Public Health
  13. Apples, raw, with skin (Includes foods for USDA’s Food Distribution Program).
  14. Baby Granny Smith Apples; Wyoming Department of Education
  15. H. Darlene Martin; G92-1088 Pregnancy and Lactation; University of Nebraska – Lincoln (1992)
  16. Kelly Wolfe et al. (2003); Antioxidant activity of apple peels.
  17. Toxoplasma ; Food Safety for Moms to Be.
  18. Toxoplasmosis: General FAQs; CDC
  19. Alexandra Scrable (2016); What You Should Expect To Eat When You Are Expecting; Academia
  20. An apple a day keeps the wheeze away (2007); NCBI
  21. Liwei Chen et al.;(2012);Prepregnancy Consumption of Fruits and Fruit Juices and the Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus;NCBI
  22. Are Red Apples Sweeter Than Green Apples?; ERIC
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