Why should Fenugreek be included in post-natal diet?

Fenugreek or “methi” is well known for its medicinal and herbal effects on overall health. Apart from providing amazing post-pregnancy benefits, Fenugreek is also shown to boost the immune system, reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health. Fenugreek contains diosgenin which can help in increasing the supply of milk. Therefore, it is known as a lactogenic food. Many nursing mothers who have problems producing milk for their babies consume fenugreek in order to increase their milk supply.

Fenugreek For Confinement Diet

Apart from that, the magnesium and vitamin contents found in this superfood is said to improve milk quality. Therefore, this also aids in improving the immune system of babies. Sounds like a wholesome meal you can incorporate into your daily confinement diet!

In Asian culture, Fenugreek can be consumed in several ways. The most common way of consuming it is to sprinkle it over porridge or curry. However, some people may choose to experiment with different recipes and teas. Whichever ways it is served or prepared, fenugreek’s natural properties make it a highly nutritious and flexible ingredient to be incorporated into many meals.

Fenugreek tea is one of the most common recipes when it comes to boosting lactation. It is extremely easy to make and does not require much time. All you need is a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds, crushed lightly, a cup of water, a dash of nutmeg, and some honey for taste.

 Boil water and let it simmer. Add the crushed fenugreeks along with other ingredients for flavour. Allow the seeds to simmer for approximately 3 minutes, then remove the pot from the heat. Allow the mixture to brew for another 15 minutes so that more flavours and nutrients can be released. When ready, just strain the mixture into your cup and enjoy a hot, refreshing beverage!

Moreover, eating fenugreek porridge during confinement is also beneficial for your health. Studies have shown that fenugreek porridge benefits you in reducing the blood sugar levels, boosts testosterone for men and boost your milk supply as well! But that is not all, fenugreek is also great for lowering your cholesterol level, reducing inflammation and regulating your hunger level too. What’s not to like?

Effects Of Fenugreek During Pregnancy

“Is fenugreek safe during pregnancy?”

You might be curious about the effects of fenugreek during pregnancy. While fenugreek is a great ingredient to place in your meals for your postnatal diet, do be very careful not to consume methi during pregnancy. One side effect of consuming fenugreek is uterine contraction. This can cause premature labour in women and therefore, fenugreek is not safe to be consumed during pregnancy. 

The consumption of fenugreek can also cause infants and mothers to emit body odour smelling like maple syrup. This odour is harmless but can be confused with a condition called Maple Syrup Urine Disease which is a serious metabolic condition and is usually present in the urine of infants. You may want to inform your baby’s paediatrician that you are consuming fenugreek in order to avoid unnecessary confusion.

Furthermore, the most general side effects of consuming fenugreek during your pregnancy are diarrhoea. Consuming a high amount or dosage of fenugreek in such a short time could harm both you and your child as well. To avoid this, you are advised to initially consume fenugreek or methi at low dosage before you gradually increase the amount taken. 

Moreover, you should avoid methi during pregnancy as it can also trigger. contraction and miscarriage as well. This nutrient is unsafe for women with cancer-sensitive hormones because it may behave similarly to oestrogen in your body. 

If you are diabetic, you might want to be cautious with consuming fenugreek. Since fenugreek is capable of reducing your blood sugar levels, Consult your doctors if you are prescribed with medications for diabetes. This is important because methi or fenugreek may amplify the effects of these medicines in your body. 

You might need to cut down on your medication intake due to the drastically low blood sugar level caused by fenugreek. Plus, if you are taking blood thinners or medication for anticoagulant effects, do not consume fenugreek as it can thin the condition of your blood. 

Unless if you are under professional or expert’s supervision, refrain from taking fenugreek during this period. If you are asthmatic or have allergies to soy or nuts, the chances are you might be allergic to fenugreek too. Opt for other foods that would not trigger your allergies or negative effects on your body. That way, it will be easier for you to look after yourself.

In conclusion, fenugreek or methi is a nutritious food to have during confinement and you are encouraged to have it during this time period. However, it is wise for you to avoid it altogether during pregnancy for a safer and smoother delivery.