Jeera water during pregnancy: Understanding the health benefits

Cumin water is known for its potential health benefits, including aiding digestion, improving immunity, and promoting hydration.

Cumin water is known for its potential health benefits, including aiding digestion, improving immunity, and promoting hydration. (Pic source: Getty)

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Jeera, also known as cumin, is a spice commonly used in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mexican cuisines. Not only does it lend a unique taste to dishes, but is also considered healthy. As such, many people drink jeera water – a drink made by soaking cumin seeds in water overnight and consuming the infused water the next day. This drink is known for its potential health benefits, including aiding digestion, improving immunity, and promoting hydration. But is it safe to drink jeera water during pregnancy?

Answering the same, Dr Ramya Kabilan, a gynecologist, shared on Instagram, “Drinking jeera water is an age-old ritual followed in Indian families for generations. Of course it is helpful not just for pregnant women but for everyone”.

She added, “Jeera is known to contain thymol, a chemical substance that stimulates the pancreas to produce enzymes and Bile. This, in turn, helps in digestion, reducing bloating, and flatulence which are the common discomforts experienced during the last few weeks of pregnancy.”

She added that it is reported by people that false labour pain is usually settled with jeera water. “Maybe because the reason for the pain in the first place is indigestion or flatulence,” she pointed out.

Speaking with indinaexpress.com, Priyanka Shukla, Senior Dietician, Ramkrishna CARE Hospitals, Raipur, said, “The health benefits of jeera water during pregnancy are not scientifically proven, but it is generally considered safe for pregnant women when consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet”.

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A post shared by Dr. Ramya Kabilan (@dr.ramya_kabilan)

Health benefits of jeera water for pregnant women

Some potential benefits of jeera water during pregnancy shared by Shukla are:

1. Relieving constipation: Many pregnant women experience constipation due to the hormonal changes that slow down the digestive system. Jeera water may help relieve constipation due to its natural laxative properties.

2. Reducing bloating: Jeera water is believed to help reduce bloating and flatulence during pregnancy, which can be uncomfortable for some women.

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3. Promoting hydration: Drinking enough water during pregnancy is essential for maintaining healthy amniotic fluid levels and supporting fetal growth. Jeera water can be a flavorful and refreshing way to stay hydrated throughout the day.

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However, it is important to consume jeera water in moderation during pregnancy, “as excessive consumption may cause some side effects, such as heartburn and acid reflux,” pointed out Shukla.

Overall, jeera water can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet during pregnancy, but it should be consumed in moderation and with the guidance of a healthcare provider.

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