Health benefits of African breadfruit (Ukwa) during pregnancy

African Breadfruit, (Ukwa) as it is called by the Igbo's is a tree, the seeds and fruit of breadfruit are eaten as food,the roots, leaves, and latex are used to make medicine.

Like other tropical fruits, African breadfruit or Ukwa in Igbo is an edible traditional fruit, it is related to other exotic fruits like breadnut, jackfruit, figs and mulberries.

In Nigeria, it is eaten as a main course dish and its seed are of particular interest because of their high nutritional value.

Breadfruit is highly sought after due to its medicinal properties, it contains moderate levels of essential vitamins and minerals.

Contrary to widespread beliefs, Ukwa does not cause pregnancy loss or miscarriage.

A pregnant woman can eat Ukwa from early pregnancy till delivery; let's glance through these obvious reasons.

💥Ukwa is rich in folic acid which helps prevent congenital birth defects like spina bifida and brain malformations in unborn babies.

💥 Eating Ukwa helps prevent pregnancy induced acne.

💥Ukwa is rich in dietary fiber and helps maintain weight loss in pregnancy

💥Ukwa treats constipation in pregnant women and promotes bowel health because of its fibre content.

💥Ukwa usually added to the meal plan of pregnant women with gestational diabetes since it helps maintain and lower blood sugar.

💥Ukwa is rich in vitamin B1 which is necessary for the development of the brain and nervous system of your unborn child.

💥Since breadfruit or Ukwa is rich in iron, it helps in the production of hemoglobin, production of red blood cells, and treats anemia in pregnancy.

💥 Protein is essential for the growth and development of both the pregnant woman and the unborn baby. Ukwa being rich, supply the necessary amount of proteins needed for the growth and development of the foetus in the mother's womb.

💥Ukwa provide the necessary energy needed for the day to day activities of the pregnant woman.

💥Ukwa contains vitamin A which promotes good eyesight and the development of the eyes in the unborn baby.

💥The high vitamin C content of ukwa make sure it promotes the development of healthy skin, promotes collagen formation and wound healing, promotes the absorption of iron from the gut and boosts the immune system.

💥 The omega 3 and fatty acids help the fetus grow optimally.

Is ukwa good for pregnant women? Yes. Enjoy your breadfruit meal in pregnancy. It is beneficial to both your unborn baby and you.

Eat healthy, stay safe.

Chef kels