Local foods for Pregnant women
Pregnancy is a critical stage of every woman’s life where the dreams of becoming a mother start. For such reason, during the pregnancy period, certain local foods are recommended for all pregnant women for good health and safety of the baby. These foods also aid in fast or easy delivery.
Check out these local foods for pregnant women.
• Okra soup
Okra soup is eaten in Ghana, Nigeria, and other African countries as well. This soup has low calories, which is good for controlling weight. It contains numerous vitamins such as vitamins A, B6, C, thiamine, and riboflavin) and minerals (zinc, calcium). Okra soup contains Dietary fiber that helps to prevent constipation.
• Egusi soup
Egusi soup is also a common dish in Nigeria and other countries in Africa. The soup is rich in dietary fiber, which helps to control bowel movements during pregnancy. It also contains vitamins B1 and B2, which are good appetizers. Enjoy your Egusi soup with any starchy food.
• Fufu
Fufu with certain fresh vegetable soups helps in the delivery of healthy babies. It also supports milk production in lactating mothers. The calcium content in this food is good for the development of strong bones in children.
• Beans
Beans is an important food for pregnant women. It contains nutrients that are rich in folate. Also, B-vitamin in Beans is good for providing red blood cells and the development of an embryo’s nervous system during the early stages of pregnancy.
Read also: Top 10 Local Foods in Ghana
• Kenkey
Kenkey is one of the most popular staple foods eaten in Ghana. There are two types, thus the GA Kenkey and Fante Kenkey. Both protect a pregnant woman against hemorrhoids and constipation.
• Jollof rice
Rice contains high carbohydrates, which vitalize the body. Rice is also a natural diuretic that helps avert urogenital infection during pregnancy.
• Plantain with Kontomime
Plantain is a common food enjoyed in Ghana and other African countries. It contains folates, niacin, riboflavin and thiamin. The Folates in plantain (folic acid) are important for a healthy pregnancy.
Plantain also give high levels of minerals such as iron, magnesium, and phosphorous. Magnesium plays a vital role in bone strengthening and a cardiac-protective role as well.