Dates are a delicious and nutritious fruit that have been used for centuries as a traditional 'remedy' for pregnancy and childbirth. Whilst there is no magic food that can guarantee a smooth labour and delivery, some studies suggest that eating dates during pregnancy may have several benefits for expectant mothers. Let's look at those potential benefits.
1. 'Natural induction' of labour
Several studies show that components in dates may work on oxytocin receptors in the uterus, increasing your chances for a spontaneous start of labour.
2. Shorter labour
According to a study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, dates may also help shorten the duration of the onset, first stage and second stage of labour. Another study showed that eating dates at the end of pregnancy was associated with a riper cervix on admission to hospital.
3. Less likely to need labour 'augmentation'.
That same study showed that eating dates during pregnancy may also reduce the chance of interventions that are offered when labour is deemed 'too slow to progress'; such as artificial rupture of membranes or synthetic oxytocin.
4. Reduced blood loss
Eating dates immediately after the birth of the placenta may reduce bleeding in the first hours. The third study mentioned below found that the average blood loss was lower for women who had eaten dates (162ml) compared to those who had not (220ml).
5. Improved nutrient intake
Dates are a great source of fibre, potassium, iron, and other essential nutrients that are important for a healthy pregnancy. Eating dates during pregnancy can help ensure that you are getting the nutrients you and your growing baby need.
Mama knows best...
It's important to note that whilst eating dates may have benefits for pregnancy and labour, they should be consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Eating too many dates can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or an increase in blood sugar levels, especially in women with gestational diabetes.
Some of the studies I've found suggest 6 dates per day from 36 weeks. If you're considering incorporating dates into your pregnancy diet, you might want to consult with your midwife or a nutritionist first. They can help you determine how many dates are appropriate for your individual needs and monitor your blood sugar levels if necessary.
Conclusion
Whilst eating dates during pregnancy is not a guaranteed way to have an easy labour and birth, it may have several benefits that are worth considering. If you enjoy the taste of dates and feel comfortable incorporating them into your pregnancy diet, go ahead and give them a try! As with any aspect of your pregnancy and childbirth journey, the most important thing is to stay informed, and do what feels right for you and your baby.
Yummy & Healthy Smoothie Recipe!
Ingredients
150 grams of frozen berries
1/2 banana
A handful of baby spinach
Chai or flax seeds (optional)
3-4 dates
250 ml oat milk
Steps
Add all ingredients to your blender.
Blend until smooth texture.
Poor into glass and enjoy!
Relevant studies:
'The effect of late pregnancy consumption of date fruit on labour and delivery'.
O. Al-Kuran, L. Al-Mehaisen, H. Bawadi, S. Beitawi, Z. Amarin.
Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 2011.
'The Effect of Late-Pregnancy Consumption of Date Fruit on Cervical Ripening in Nulliparous Women'.
Masoumeh Kordi, Fatemeh Aghaei Meybodi, Fatemeh Tara, Mohsen
Nemati, Mohammad Taghi Shakeri.
Journal of Midwifery & Reproductive Health, 2013.
'Effect of Dates in Late Pregnancy on the Duration of Labor in Nulliparous Women'.
Masoumeh Kordi, Fatemeh Tara, Farzaneh Rashidi Fakari, Mohsen Nemati, Mohammadtaghi Shakeri
Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research, 2017.