Is it Safe to Drink Sugarcane Juice during Pregnancy?

Known for its refreshing properties and sweet taste, sugarcane juice has gained popularity as a favoured beverage worldwide. Usually, sugarcane is considered to be native to Southeast Asia and grows in warm climates. The plant is processed to make sugar. 

One of the finest ways to consume sugarcane is by taking fresh sugarcane juice. With a refreshing taste and delightful sweetness, sugarcane juice boasts higher amounts of potassium and carbohydrates and maintains low sodium levels.

As a mom-to-be, it is natural to think about the safety of drinking sugarcane juice during pregnancy. You must carefully choose your food choices as it nourishes your baby. Hence, a balanced and healthy diet is essential for the growth of the little one.

In this article, we have compiled information on the nutritional value of sugarcane juice, its numerous benefits during pregnancy, and the potential precautions to keep in mind.

Nutritional value of sugarcane juice

Sugarcane is a rich source of antioxidants, phytonutrients, and fibre, making sugarcane juice a nutritious drink. Also, it contains essential vitamins such as vitamins A, B1, B5, B3, B6, B2, and C (vital for the functioning of the immune system).

However, people only worry about consuming sugarcane juice because of its high glucose content. Here is a table that describes the nutritional value of sugarcane juice and its concentration per 100 millilitres of the same.

Nutrient list	Concentration per 100 millilitres
Protein	0.16 grams
Fat	0.40 grams
Total Fibre	0.56 grams
Cholesterol	0 milligrams
Carbohydrates	21.14 grams
Sugar content	12.85 grams
Sodium	1.16 milligrams
Magnesium	13.03 milligrams
Phosphorus	22.08 milligrams
Potassium	150 milligrams
Iron	1.12 milligrams

*Based on National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) – Indian Food Composition Tables (2017)

It is safe for women with a history of irregular lipid profiles in the blood to consume sugarcane juice as it contains no cholesterol or fat. In addition, pregnant women with high urea content or uric acid can also drink sugarcane juice as it has less protein.

Is Sugarcane Juice Safe to Consume During Pregnancy?

Absolutely yes! It is highly beneficial for expectant mothers as it helps to combat pregnancy-related complications. Sugarcane juice eliminates free radicals from the body and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

Due to its high sugar content, sugarcane juice acts as a natural energy booster that aids in digestion and relieves constipation as it is rich in fibre. It is an excellent alternative to artificial and processed energy drinks that can cause harm to our bodies.

The ability to regulate blood sugar levels with a low glycemic index and flush out toxins from the body makes sugarcane juice a good choice for pregnant women who wish to stay well-hydrated throughout the day. Additionally, it maintains healthy skin and hair and manages optimum amniotic fluid levels. 

In case you are at a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes, it is essential to seek advice from a dietitian and your gynaecologist. It is important to note that sugarcane juice contains a high amount of sugar and glycemic load, which can significantly affect blood sugar levels. To manage blood sugar levels effectively, women with gestational diabetes should avoid consuming sugarcane juice.

Sugarcane juice is rich in iron and calcium, which are required to produce red blood cells. It helps prevent anaemia during pregnancy and is essential for growing strong bones and teeth in the baby. 

Health Benefits of Sugarcane Juice During Pregnancy

Sugarcane juice is a natural diuretic and powerhouse of nutrients like fibre, vitamins, and minerals. For pregnant women who experience edema or swelling, particularly in the later stages, drinking sugarcane juice helps massively.

Pregnancy often leads to a range of digestive problems, such as constipation and bloating. However, the consumption of sugarcane juice can provide relief from these unpleasant symptoms. The inherent properties of this juice effectively stimulate bowel movement and facilitate digestion. Additionally, sugarcane juice is rich in soluble fibre, which nourishes and supports the development of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Furthermore, besides its digestive benefits, sugarcane juice is an excellent energy source for expectant mothers. It is enriched with natural sugars readily assimilated by the body, offering a rapid surge of energy without the adverse effects of refined sugars. This attribute is advantageous for pregnant women who often encounter fatigue or diminished energy levels.

Here are a plethora of health benefits of sugarcane juice during pregnancy: 

Helps fight infections

With several antioxidants such as polyphenols and anti-inflammatory properties, sugarcane juice in pregnancy makes the body immune. It increases the chances of fighting different infections that may harm your baby. Drinking sugarcane juice can help pregnant women lower the risk of viral or bacterial diseases.

Helps to boost immunity

The vitamin C content in sugarcane juice bolsters the body’s immune system and keeps you healthy during the pregnancy period.

Manages bilirubin levels

For expecting moms, an increased amount of biliverdin and bilirubin can lead to a high risk of gestational jaundice. Sugarcane lowers the bilirubin concentration levels in the blood, thereby ensuring the optimal health of the gallbladder and liver.

Relieves constipation

As you might know, pregnancy can cause digestive issues like bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, and constipation. With its alkaline nature, sugarcane juice promotes well-being and alleviates uncomfortable conditions like acidity and heartburn. 

Aids in cold and cough

With electrolytes present naturally, sugarcane juice refills the lost fluids in case of symptoms like dehydration. It is an effective cure method for colds and coughs, as taking over-the-counter medication during pregnancy is not advisable.

Helps to maintain body weight

The presence of polyphenols in sugarcane juice prevents excessive weight gain and speeds up metabolism. 

Risks and Precautions in Drinking Sugarcane Juice during Pregnancy

• It is essential for pregnant women to prioritize hygiene when consuming sugarcane juice, as it can be polluted with bacteria that can lead to illness or infection.
• To ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby, it is recommended that pregnant women avoid consuming sugarcane juice from unverified sources, such as roadside stalls or unsealed cans.
• While sugarcane juice is generally safe for pregnant women, it is essential to remember that large amounts can lead to increased blood sugar levels, which can harm the development of the fetus.
• Avoid drinking sugarcane juice if you have gestational diabetes as it contains a higher amount of glucose and carbohydrates.
• Consult your gynecologist/doctor before you add sugarcane juice as a part of your daily diet. 

Final Thoughts

Sugarcane juice for pregnancy has tremendous health benefits as it is packed with essential nutrients needed to be healthy. However, drinking it in excessive amounts can lead to complications. Hence, you can consume it in moderate quantities to enjoy the benefits, such as energy, hydration, digestion, and immunity-boosting. 
Nevertheless, visit your healthcare provider and take consultation on time to ensure that you do not put your health or your unborn baby at risk.

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