Pregnancy cravings can get quirky: pickles, chips, even ice cream at 3 a.m. Amidst all those cravings, many moms-to-be forget about the foods and ingredients that truly matter. Saffron, often called the red gold, is one of them. Valued for centuries in traditional pregnancy diets, saffron is known to ease digestive discomfort, manage mood swings, and add benefits far beyond taste. Even a small pinch can make a meaningful difference.
Want to know why saffron during pregnancy is so valued? Let’s explore.5 Proven Perks of Saffron During Pregnancy
Saffron, also called Kesar or Zaffran, is cultivated from the purple Crocus sativus flower. Its tiny red threads are handpicked and dried, which makes it one of the most expensive spices in the world.
That’s not all! Saffron contains compounds like crocin, crocetin, and safranal, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. When taken in moderation during pregnancy, it can benefit your health and that of your growing baby. Here’s how:
- Manages Mood Swings
Hormonal fluctuations can take your emotions on a rollercoaster ride and are a common part of pregnancy. Studies suggest adding saffron during pregnancy can help lift your mood by raising serotonin levels (the happy chemical) in the brain and may even reduce postpartum depression.
- Supports Better Sleep
As pregnancy progresses, many moms-to-be struggle with body aches, restlessness, and cramps that disturb sleep. Saffron acts as a natural sedative, and when taken during pregnancy, it helps relax muscle cramps and improve sleep.
- Regulates Blood Pressure
Pregnancy can make your blood pressure swing up and down, which can cause problems like preeclampsia. Adding saffron to your diet may help keep things more stable. Its natural compounds, like crocin and safranal, support healthy blood pressure and give your heart some extra help while your body works overtime.
- Eases Labour Pain
Labour is every mom-to-be’s biggest worry, and saffron might just bring some comfort. Research shows that saffron during pregnancy can relax the muscles, which may not only ease labour pain but also help make the process a little shorter.
- Improves Gut Health
Digestive troubles such as bloating or heartburn are pretty common in pregnancy. Adding a pinch of saffron to your diet may help ease these issues. Studies also suggest that the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antitumor properties of saffron and its compounds help keep the digestive system healthy.
The perks of saffron sound promising, don’t they? But here’s the real question: Is it safe to consume throughout the stages of pregnancy? Let’s find out!
Is Saffron Safe During All Trimesters Of Pregnancy?
Not really. Even though saffron has many health benefits, it should be taken carefully and only in small amounts (less than 1.5 g per day). That’s because it can stimulate the uterus and soften the cervix, almost as if preparing the body for labour. This effect can be risky in early pregnancy and may increase the chance of miscarriage. There are also concerns about its impact on the baby’s developing organs. Historically, saffron has even been used to induce abortion because of these properties. That’s why it’s best to avoid saffron during the first trimester of pregnancy and always consult your gynecologist before including it in your diet during pregnancy.
Wrapping Up!
Saffron during pregnancy can be a little boost for your mood, sleep, and digestion, but only when used wisely. The key is moderation and timing, especially since the first trimester is not the right phase to experiment with it. Always check with your doctor before adding it to your diet.