Chances are you may have already spotted this new skincare tool in town! With a rising number of influencers, YouTubers, and skincare specialists using the Gua Sha stone, it’s high time that you know what the hype is all about, right?
You are at the right place! This guide will give you an A-Z understanding of this miracle tool called Gua Sha. So keep reading if you are aiming to up your skincare game!
What is a Gua Sha Stone?
Gua Sha stone is a skincare tool, which is flat and made of semi-precious stone which is used for the purpose of massaging and providing relaxation. Although it has only made contemporary trends now, it has been existing for a much longer time than you think.
Gua means stroking or pressing, and Sha means redness. Gua Sha is a Chinese traditional healing technique by scraping the face. The beliefs are that the redness that is caused by stroking the face, helps to heal the skin. Modern-day Gua Sha techniques are lesser intense though but are sure to give you a chiseled face with many other benefits.
How Can Your Skin Benefit from Gua Sha?
In my opinion, Gua Sha is a miraculous invention. Once you know how to use it, you will simply fall in love with it. Promise.
When used continually and in the right techniques, you can see numerous results that a Gua Sha brings to the fore, including:
1. Deals with Cystic Acne
A Gua Sha stone
Many people tend to believe that Gua Sha shouldn’t be used over acne. But that’s just a myth. In fact, the tool helps to reduce acne by reducing flare-ups and improving blood circulation. However, it mustn’t be used over damaged or barrier-broken skin.
2. Lymphatic Drainage
If your lymph system is slow, you will see puffiness, acne, fatigue, and swollen skin. It can only be improved by muscular movement and Gua Sha does that job pretty well. Using it regularly will improve your lymph system.
3. Reduces Acne Scars
Yes, you heard that right. There are a lot of products and serums in the market that makes the claim of reducing those stubborn acne scars. But the results are really poor. The Gua Sha in circulating blood renews skin cells which ultimately reduce scars. That’s a better and hassle-free treatment for your acne scars.
4. Helps with Dark Circles and Pigmentation
When blood circulation is good, you will automatically see results like a reduction in dark circles and pigmentation areas. Gua Sha when used right helps to reduce dark circles and pigmentation.
5. Reduces Puffiness
The Gua Sha removes lymph and other fluids through stroking, hence giving relaxation to your face and leaving behind fresh and healthy skin free of puffiness.
6. Sculpts Jawline and Cheekbones
A defined and chiseled jawline is a dream, right? Stroking your Gua Sha tool in the right way and constantly will do that job perfectly well for you. As time passes, you will see the changes on your face as it will look more naturally sculpted.
7. Softens Wrinkles
Relaxing your stiff muscles, reduces wrinkles and fine lines like a wonder. But using it consistently and properly is important to see these results.
How to Find Your Perfect Gua Sha?
Gua Shas come in a variety of shapes and materials and each has a different use. We’ve curated the perfect list for you to choose your Gua Sha!
You can choose the best fit of Gua Sha for your skin on the basis of two things:
On the basis of Material
On the basis of Shape
Varieties of Gus Sha on the basis of Material
1. Rose Quartz
The pretty pink of Gua Sha in rose quartz is the epitome of love, compassion, and emotions. If you need to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles, this is your best friend. It will also help you to get rid of toxins in your body.
Rose Quartz Gua Sha
2. Black Obsidian
This particular Gua Sha is made up of the earthly elements of fire, water, and earth which will help you to remove all the toxins in your body and get rid of negative emotions. It is responsible for strengthening facial muscles and leaves your skin feeling rejuvenating.
Black Obsidian Gua Sha
3. Jade
To promote lymphatic drainage and reduce puffiness, this is your go-to Gua Sha tool. This crystal gives resting to the existing imbalances in your body.
Jade Gua Sha Stones
4. Amethyst
This crystal produces negative ions that will get rid of the negative energy and stress. A perfect tool to help you after a long and tiring day after work. It helps cool down the skin and in pore tightening.
Amethyst Gua Sha Stone
Varieties of Gua Sha on the Basis of Shape
1. Concave Side
The concave side Gua Sha helps best to stroke on the larger areas of your body like the neck, shoulders, and spine.
2. Double Curved Side
This Gua Sha shape will help you to reduce puffiness under the eyes and improve blood circulation around cheeks and cheekbones.
Double Curved Gua Sha stone
3. Cleft
This one is used particularly for the jaw because of its smaller cleft.
4. Teeth Edge
For your fine lines and wrinkles, you need this shape of Gua Sha. It is also used on the chin, cheeks, forehead, and temples.
Teeth-edged Gua Sha Stone
5. Pointed Convex Edge
To scoop your brows, keep them healthy and in shape, this is the perfect Gua Sha tool.
What is the Right Way to Use your Gua Sha?
1. Prep your Gua Sha before starting the routine. Make sure to wipe it thoroughly yet gently before using it on your skin. You can also leave it in the refrigerator for a few hours before using it so that it cools your skin.
2. Your skin needs to feel a little slippery for the Gua Sha to stroke efficiently. So apply some facial oil, serum, or moisturizer before using the Gua Sha.
3. Use it in the right way. The curved side of the tool should hug the curves of your skin. And the flat side should rest on your skin.
4. Start by using the concave side of your tool by pressing it gently in an upwards motion from your neck to the jawline. Repeat this a few times and then do it on the other side of the neck. Do not put too much pressure here, just enough to relax your muscles.
How to use a Gua Sha stone
5. Now start scraping from the bottom of your skin using the cleft side of the tool. Scrape it all along your jawline, up to the ears. Repeat a few times and switch to the next side.
6. Take the flatter curve side and scrape it along your cheeks. Do this in the horizontal motion a couple of times and then repeat on the other side.
7. The small round end of your tool will now be used to massage under the eyes gently. Pull it towards your temples.
8. Now on your forehead, make sure that the largest curve is just above and gently pull it up towards your hairline.
9. Once you are done massaging all the areas of your face, you can go ahead and finish your skincare routine.
Should you use Gua Sha on serum or face oils?
When you’re using the Gua Sha tool during the day, applying a serum is better as it has a lightweight formula. Oil will make your skin feel greasy or sticky. Nevertheless, apply whatever your skin is more comfortable with – may it be a serum, face oil, or moisturizer. You just need to have a moist base so that the Gua Sha can glide smoothly without causing any irritation.
1. If you have some active acne on your skin, you can use the Pulp Ex-Acne Anti Acne Serum which is the goodness of Sea Buckthorn and Elderflower.
2. If your skin is showing signs of aging or you are looking for some anti-aging product, use Deconstruct Retinol and Peptide Serum as a base for your Gua Sha routine.
3. Use Shankara Kumadi Oil if your skin is scarred, it will generously nourish and hydrate your face and reduce the scars over time when you use it with the Gua Sha.
Serum
4. If you have dry and dehydrated skin, use Swisse’s Hyaluronic Serum which will give you quick and intense hydration with Senna plant extract, Jojoba, sweet almond oil.
5. If you need some serum for your night Gua Sha routine, use Martiderm’s Night Renew Serum or the Night Face Elixir by Ras Luxury Oils. These active products will treat your skin overnight and also heal it.
Whichever product you consider using, make sure you use something that will moisten your skin. Don’t use the Gua Sha on dry and dehydrated skin.
How often should you use Gua Sha?
To see amazing and transformative results, it is recommended that you use the Gua Sha tool at least three times a week. You can either use it in the morning to prepare your skin for the day or use it at night after a long day of work to give you relaxation.
How to Store and Clean your Gua Sha?
A tool that you have to use on your skin often needs to be clean otherwise it can lead to other skin problems like sudden breakouts and acne. Use a soft towel to wipe your tool before each use. Even better, you can use a towel dipped in a mixture of cleanser and water and then use it to gently wipe the Gua Sha.
This will remove any bacteria on the tool. Make sure that you don’t use hot water because that can cause damage to the stone. Ensure also that your tool is completely dry before storing it in the box.
Handling your Gua Sha with care is really important as it is made up of semi-precious stones and is fragile. So you need to store it in a place where it cannot fall from or better still, keep it in the refrigerator to have an added cooling effect.
Mir Saeid is the Growth Hacker of Kashmirica, a brand that is poised to ‘Bring Exclusives from Kashmir to You’. An enthusiastic cultural entrepreneur, he is driven by a passion to bring about a social impact. He has a Masters in International Business from the University of Bedfordshire and has worked in leading Marketing positions at various SMEs and Startups for 8+ years.
Intrigued by the crafts of his birthplace, he decided to bring the art on the Global Connoisseur through the internet. A polyglot who speaks English, Arabic, Urdu & Koshur, Mir loves traveling, reading, writing, and spending time on the cricket field – a passion rekindled just recently.
One of the many skincare tools that are around and hyped in the market are face rollers, which I’m sure that if you’re someone who is skin-conscious, you’re probably eyeing to buy one.
Ever since the tool has been around, people have been more curious than ever. And if you’re someone who’s looking for a wholesome guide that will give you all the understanding of this miraculous tool, you’re at the right place!
Read on to know what is a face-roller and how it can benefit your skin. I’m going to talk about some great things, most of which are largely ‘unknown’.
What is a Face-roller?
Face-rollers have been around for much longer than you can imagine. It’s only that it has made it to popular culture now.
Just like the Gua Sha, the face-roller technique comes from China where it was used traditionally by wealthy women. It is a handy facial tool that has two rollers on either end made up of semi-precious stones like Jade or Amethyst.
Face Roller
Because of the high demand of face rollers today, they come in an array of choices of stones and sizes. The mini-roller is smaller in size and has only one roller. It is more affordable compared to dual-ended ones and is travel friendly. It is designed in a way so that it can efficiently target the area around the eyes and the mouth.
How can you benefit from using a face-roller?
The face roller needs to be used correct. If that is not done, you might get a lot of side effects. Using the face-roller with a good technique will prove beneficial for you because, it will:
1. Prevent your skin from premature aging
Face-rolling will tone your face, relax your muscles and increase skin elasticity over time. You will notice the reduced signs of aging and depuffing.
2. Renew the skin cells
When done the right way, the face rolling technique will give the same mark of goodness as facial massage. It will rejuvenate your skin and renew the skin cells.
3. Fight dark circles
Face rolling has a cooling effect on your skin which decreases the size of the blood vessels under your eye area, and helps get rid of the dark circles.
4. Boost blood circulation and collagen
It will improve the movement and circulation of blood around your face, and make it more bright and fresh. The face rolling technique will also increase the facial skin protein called collagen.
5. Help in faster absorption of skincare products
One of the best ways to use this product is to apply your serum and moisturizer first and then gently use the roller. You’ll notice that it will help the products to absorb into your skin and give better results.
How does a Face-Roller work?
To know the best way of using the face-roller starts by first understanding its structure. The larger roller is meant for the entire face. And the smaller one is made for areas like around your eyes. These rollers are made up of semi-precious stones which have healing properties.
According to experts, when you roll this face-roller upon your skin, it exerts some pressure which stimulates blood and energy flow in your facial tissues. This undoubtedly increases blood flow, and also optimizes lymph movements. This ultimately leads to regeneration, repairing, and freshness.
How to choose a Face Roller that’ll suit you best?
Just as your choice of skin care products depends on your skin type and requirement, so it is with the face-roller. There are different stones that serve different purposes.
1. Jade
The jade face-roller has cooling properties and reduces irritation and inflammation. It causes lymphatic drainage which reduces wrinkles and blemishes. So if that is your target, you ought to go with this one.
Jade face roller
2. Rose Quartz
Rose quartz is associated with self-love and care. It represents younger and beautiful skin. It will help reduce your stress and negative energies. It softens fine lines by increasing cell turnover and heals your skin.
Rose Quartz Face Roller
3. Amethyst
This crystal represents power and protection. So if you’ve got acne-prone skin, the Amethyst face roller is your bestie. It will reduce inflammation up to a great extent and tighten skin.
Amethyst face roller and gua sha
4. Obsidian
The obsidian stone represents balance. It has the elements of earth, fire, and water. It is great healing in nature and rejuvenates your skin on all levels.
Obsidian face roller and gua sha
How to use a facial roller?
To get the best results from a facial roller, use it in the manner mentioned below.
1. Firstly, prepare the tool for rolling by keeping it in the freezer for 2-3 hours. This will add additional cooling to your skin.
2. Clean your face before you begin. Make sure it is clean and rid of all dirt. Next, after drying your skin with a soft towel, apply some serum or moisturizer on your face for a greasy base. We recommend our natural creams for this.
3. Now, take your face-roller and place it behind, at the top of your neck and start rolling it in a vertical motion. Cover both the sides of your neck. Once you do this, place the face-roller in the front of your neck and roll it in a downwards motion from the jawline to the collarbones.
4. After doing this step, bring your face-roller to the middle of your face. Push it outwards, toward the sides, along your cheekbones. Cover the entire cheek area before you move on to your forehead.
5. Place your face-roller on your forehead and roll it downwards to your eyebrows. After repeating this a few times, but the roller between your eyebrows, and pull it horizontally towards the temples on either side.
6. With the help of the smaller side of your face-roller, roll gently between the outer and inner corners of your eyes.
7. Finally, wipe your face gently with a towel, and apply your moisturizer for hydration.
Face rollers in different stones
How often should you use a face roller?
We recommend you to use your face-rollers up to 3-4 times a week. You can also choose to use it on a daily basis. Just ensure to be consistent with your skincare routine as inconsistency will not be beneficial for you.
How to clean and store your face roller?
A tool that you have to use on your skin often needs to be clean otherwise it can lead to other skin problems like sudden breakouts and acne. Use a soft towel to wipe your face roller before each use. Even better, you can use a towel dipped in a mixture of cleanser and water and then use it to gently wipe the face roller. This will remove any bacteria on the tool.
Make sure that you don’t use hot water because that can cause damage to the stone. Ensure also that your tool is completely dry before storing it in the box.
Get started with improving your skin tone with a face roller
Handling your face roller with care is really important as it is made up of semi-precious stones and is fragile. So you need to store it in a place where it cannot fall from or better still, keep it in the refrigerator to have an added cooling effect.
Mir Saeid is the Growth Hacker of Kashmirica, a brand that is poised to ‘Bring Exclusives from Kashmir to You’. An enthusiastic cultural entrepreneur, he is driven by a passion to bring about a social impact. He has a Masters in International Business from the University of Bedfordshire and has worked in leading Marketing positions at various SMEs and Startups for 8+ years.
Intrigued by the crafts of his birthplace, he decided to bring the art on the Global Connoisseur through the internet. A polyglot who speaks English, Arabic, Urdu & Koshur, Mir loves traveling, reading, writing, and spending time on the cricket field – a passion rekindled just recently.
If you’re someone who wants to try a hair spa at home and are looking for some good DIY techniques, you’re at the right place!
Taking care of your hair health with all the dust and pollution it is exposed to, is a challenging task. Add to this, the damage by styling products, blow dryers, and hair color.
To replenish and heal your hair, the everyday shampoo-conditioner routine is not enough. You need is a hair spa once a while!
Although you can book a hair spa treatment any time, it’s worth it to try doing the hair spa at home to nourish and condition your hair. You might think its too hard. But in reality it is not.
Here’s what you need to follow to have a hassle-free hair spa treatment at home!
Hair Spa at Home in 5 Simple Steps
Go and vouch by these 5 steps to get the best hair you ever had.
1. Massage Your Scalp and Hair with Oil
Massaging your hair scalp will improve blood circulation. You are free to choose any hair oil for this task and the best ones are almond oil, coconut oil, olive oil, etc which are also easily available.
These oils nourish your hair because of the fats present in them. This process will also help you to reduce hair fall by reducing stress.
To make the oil penetrate your scalp, use steam to open the follicles. You can use a steamer if you have one or a towel will also do. Dip the towel in a hot water bowl, squeeze, and wrap it around your head.
If you think that it’s not hot anymore, repeat the process. Do this for 15-20 mins before the next step.
3. Shampoo to Wash Off the Oil
Finally, it’s time to wash your hair. You could use sulfate and Paraben-free shampoo for this. Any gentle shampoo that can cleanse your hair without drying it out will work really well. If your hair hasn’t cleansed well, you can shampoo it again to remove the dirt and grime.
4. Deep Condition with Spa Cream
Even if you’re doing the spa at home, this is the most important step. Use a deep conditioning spa cream or a DIY mask with ingredients like eggs, honey, curd, saffron etc. Leave the mask on for 15-20 mins for best results.
Best Hair Spa Creams to Choose From
Berina Hair Treatment Spa
Jovees Argan Oil Hair Spa Masque
NutriGlow Spa Hair Essentials – For All Hair Types
L’Oreal Professionnel X-Tenso Care Masque (for straightened hair)
Wella Professionals INVIGO Nutri Enrich Deep Nourishing Mask (For Dry And Damaged Hair)
In this step, you’ll use a mild shampoo to rinse your hair. If you feel like it, you can follow with a regular conditioner. After the rinse, don’t dry your hair with your towel or blower, let it dry naturally. You can also follow up with a leave-in conditioner to protect your hair from sun damage.
Spa Your Hair at Home
That’s it! You are done with your hair spa therapy. When you do this hair spa at home weekly or fortnightly, you can easily restore the health of your hair and bring back the glow you always desired!
Mir Saeid is the Growth Hacker of Kashmirica, a brand that is poised to ‘Bring Exclusives from Kashmir to You’. An enthusiastic cultural entrepreneur, he is driven by a passion to bring about a social impact. He has a Masters in International Business from the University of Bedfordshire and has worked in leading Marketing positions at various SMEs and Startups for 8+ years.
Intrigued by the crafts of his birthplace, he decided to bring the art on the Global Connoisseur through the internet. A polyglot who speaks English, Arabic, Urdu & Koshur, Mir loves traveling, reading, writing, and spending time on the cricket field – a passion rekindled just recently.
Have you walked into a beauty store in search of the perfect bottle of shampoo, and only ended up in total perplexity because of so many options to choose from? And you ultimately end up buying the one that looks the most appealing?
You should never do it. You should always try to buy a sulphate and paraben free shampoo, but why is that? We will find out just that in this post.
Health comes first and shampoos filled with chemicals should be your last choice.
There are several important factors to consider while buying shampoo, and most of us focus on affordability and ingredients. There are many shampoos in the market that make claims to be free of toxic formulations, but they contain ingredients that are toxic for not just you, but also for the environment.
Don’t worry, I’ve put together this blog for you to take your hair game to the next, healthier and cleaner level!
Difference between Clean and Toxic shampoos
There’s a major difference in the ingredients used in both clean/hair friendly and regular shampoos. Non-toxic shampoos do not contain Sulphates and Parabens that all the regular shampoos always have. But why are they bad for you?
Let’s learn more about these ingredients:
1. Sulphates
Whenever you apply the shampoo to your hair, it creates lather. This lather is the result of the Sodium lauryl sulphate present in the shampoo. The sulphates do clear your scalp and get rid of dirt and grime, but they cause a lot harm to your hair.
In essence, it is a double edged sword.
2. Parabens
Parabens are a type of preservative that is responsible for increasing the shelf life of beauty products. They stop the growth of bacteria and fungus but according to research, they can cause side effects and allergies.
If the parabens are removed from shampoos, you might see their costs increasing due to a decreased shelf life.
Why You Should Use Paraben and Sulphate-Free Shampoos?
You should always try to use haircare products that are made from natural ingredients and that’s because:
1. Sulphates are potential cancer-causing ingredients, even though they cleanse your scalp. They are also the main reason behind hair loss, hair thinning, damaged hair follicles, and slow hair growth.
2. Parabens not only cause allergic reactions but also affect your skin and cause dermatitis and rosacea.
3. Sulphates can greatly affect eye health and cause blindness. It is highly recommended that they must not be used on babies and infants.
4. Because of its estrogen-like effects on the body, even parabens are responsible for having cancer-causing ingredients.
5. The worst part is Sulphate strips off the natural moisture and oils present in your scalp. On the other hand, clean shampoos clean your hair more effectively and retain the moisture of your scalp.
How to find the Perfect Paraben and Sulphate-Free shampoo for you?
There are two different ways that you can use to find the perfect clean shampoo for yourself: based on your scalp and hair type.
Finding the Right Shampoo for Your Hair Type
1. Shampoos for Dry Hair
If you have dry hair, all your scalp needs is a boost of hydration! The perfect one for you would be a moisturizing shampoo. A shampoo that has the goodness of Almond Oil, or Olive Oil, which naturally hydrates and protects the keratin and retains moisture.
Whereas, other oils such as grape seed is proven to be beneficial in improving and maintaining the shine and overall health of your hair. So, try to have them in your shampoo.
2. Shampoos for Colored Hair
If you have colored hair, you need a shampoo that will not only cleanse gently but also one which will nurture your colored hair and preserve its color. It must also help in strengthening the damaged hair because of coloring.
The shampoo that has extracts from flowers such as rose is ideal. You can check for one that contains ingredients like lime Himalayan herbs and flowers that treat your damaged hair gently and bind the color pigment to the hair so that it lasts longer.
3. Shampoos for Damaged Hair
If you’re someone who has damaged hair because of UV rays or using heat styling, you need a shampoo that will fix and make your hair soft, silky, and smooth. Shampoos that contain the goodness of Moroccan Argon and Blackseed/Kalonji Oil, along with extracts of Ginger, Aloe Vera, Coriander, and Oils of Castor and Neem are a good fit.
Generally, we can say that these ingredients are best to improve your hair health and repair damage.
4. Shampoos for Dull Hair
All you need is a shampoo that will add shine and a healthy glow to your hair. A shampoo that contains Aloe Vera and Citrus heal damaged and unhealthy scalp and leave your hair looking bright and shiny. Definitely, something to look for!
5. Shampoos for Fine Hair
Thin and fine hair tends to get oily in no time. Use a shampoo that will help you to get rid of extreme oiliness with its pomegranate and raspberry juice. Extracts of blueberry and oats also will nourish your hair. The soy and wheat protein will add volume to your hair by making it look fuller naturally.
6. Shampoos for Frizzy Hair
People living in humid regions can relate to this. Chances are that you have frizzy hair, that looks uncontrollable. The best option to keep your frizz under control is using anti-frizz hair products. Lavender oil and other premium botanical extracts which reduce your frizz without damage.
Buying a Shampoo Based on Your Scalp Type
1. Shampoo for an Oily Scalp
Finding the perfect shampoo for the oily scalp is a chaotic task, and it’s possible that you haven’t found the perfect one yet. To control the sebum and oil production level, here’s what you should do:
Avoid using shampoos that add moisture and hydration to your oily scalp. It’ll do you more harm than good
Shampoos that make volumising, and strengthening claims will balance out the moisture and control oil
While using the shampoo, massage it on your scalp gently for some time, so that you can get rid of the oil on your scalp
Herbs and essential oils will help in repairing your damaged follicles and also control sebum production.
2. Shampoos for a Dry Scalp
If you have a dry scalp with flakes, you need a kind of shampoo that will not only get rid of that dryness but also the embarrassment;
Avoid moisturising, strengthening, and volumising shampoos. They will not give you the hydration you want and get rid of the natural oil already present in your scalp
Look for shampoos that are hydrating, and smoothing and also that will provide the necessary moisture to get rid of dryness.
Use a shampoo that has tea tree oil, which is packed with the perfect ingredient for dandruff and dry, itchy scalps. It leaves a cooling effect on the scalp and removes all dirt and flakiness.
How to Use a Sulphate and Paraben-free shampoo?
1. Make sure that your hair is evenly wet to give you a good base for the application of shampoo.
2. The lesser the better. Use a small amount of shampoo. Paraben and Sulphate-Free Shampoos don’t lather much, but they are effective
3. If you think you need more shampoo to wash your hair, don’t take shampoo just add more water. By doing this you will activate your shampoo and improve the cleansing process
4. Wash your hair in two rounds to make sure all dirt is removed.
5. Finally, to lock in moisture and get frizz-free hair, use a clean conditioner.
What to expect when you switch to a Sulphate and Paraben-Free shampoo?
Although it might take you a little time to adjust to these shampoos, here’s what you can expect in the beginning:
1. You will see changes in oil production which will either increase or decrease. It’s a normal thing and can go on for several weeks.
2. People think that more foam means better cleansing, but it’s not so. Regular shampoos create thick lather, but clean shampoos don’t. They still cleanse your hair better.
3. You will notice a thickness in your hair because these shampoos will treat the damaged hair follicles. Some people see the difference that their hair growth has increased.
How can you make this transition easier?
1. Take it Easy
What you need to do first is reduce the number of times you shampoo your hair each week. From the third week onwards, start using the clean shampoo instead of the chemical one.
2. Notice the Changes and Document Them
The best way to make this journey more fun is by documenting each change. Click the pictures of your hair when you’re just starting to use the new shampoo and compare them with the earlier ones.
Notice the changes in your hair texture. Document all the changes and soon you’ll be able to evaluate the huge difference it has made to your hair.
3. Invest in Quality Products
When you’re making the switch, don’t cut edges. This is a game-changing decision and you need to invest some money to get the best choice. Before buying, make sure to research the ingredients of the shampoo and how it can benefit your hair type.
4. Focus on Taking Care of Your Hair
There’s a reason why you need to concentrate on frequent washing and brushing of your hair. It will get rid of any build-up on your scalp. And brushing hair is necessary because it will distribute the natural oils over the entire scalp on your head.
5. Use Argan Oil
Argan oil is the superfood for your hair when it comes to nourishment. It is a breathable and natural ingredient that your hair will fall in love with. It tames your frizzy hair and makes it healthier.
6. Show Some Patience
To see the effect of the new shampoo, you need to be patient. You’ll not see the results overnight. Sometimes the results take a lot of time to show up, but once you notice how good it is for your hair, it will all be worth it.
Chemical shampoos are only a quick fix, but the clean ones have a lasting effect on your hair that won’t go away easily.
Change Your Chemical Shampoo for a Healthier Alternative
So, enjoy this transformational journey that will leave your hair beautiful and luscious like never before, and without causing harm to the environment! Be patient and record every step and change of your journey to make it more fun!
Mir Saeid is the Growth Hacker of Kashmirica, a brand that is poised to ‘Bring Exclusives from Kashmir to You’. An enthusiastic cultural entrepreneur, he is driven by a passion to bring about a social impact. He has a Masters in International Business from the University of Bedfordshire and has worked in leading Marketing positions at various SMEs and Startups for 8+ years.
Intrigued by the crafts of his birthplace, he decided to bring the art on the Global Connoisseur through the internet. A polyglot who speaks English, Arabic, Urdu & Koshur, Mir loves traveling, reading, writing, and spending time on the cricket field – a passion rekindled just recently.
Who doesn’t love to have glowing skin? We know that there is no shortcut to achieving that and Ayurveda is a believer that beauty comes from within. Better than any other skincare routine out there, Ayurveda has the best solution for you to have that radiant, glowing skin like never before.
Ayurveda is a centuries-old science, and it always emphasizes balancing the body, digestive health, working with energy and agility, and understanding the dosha of your body rather than just relying on some beauty products or doctors.
The key here is to find the importance of this balance because that will ultimately lead to healthier skin and hair. The glow that is natural and doesn’t lie comes from the overall health of your body and not just a couple of beauty products. They can only speed up the process. The Ayurveda routine lays emphasis on applying oils more than lotions or creams and the regular detoxing of your body.
Having that natural glow is not an easy job that can be done overnight. It takes time, but when it starts showing, you know it is here to stay. If you’re ready, here’s all you need to do to have that perfect glowing skin that doesn’t lie, Ayurveda style.
Types of Doshas
Ayurveda has three types of Doshas to understand the basics of regulation of the mind, body, and behavior: Vatta, Pitta, and Kapha.
Vata dosha
When observed externally, people with Vata dosha are lean, delicate, have dry skin and fine hair. They are full of energetic lives and have a vibrant approach to life. They are also lighthearted. They have mood swings quite often and they are highly creative and have a flexible attitude while making decisions.
Pitta dosha
People in this category have a medium and muscular build. They are fierce with their opponents but warm with their friends and family. They are passionate and have the ability to become leaders because they believe in taking charge.
Kapha dosha
These people have a solid build and their bones are thicker. They are calm and composite in nature and have loving and easy-going personalities. They are usually conserved and move ahead with perseverance.
Ayurvedic skincare routine to achieve a glowing skin
When it comes to your ayurvedic skincare routine, you don’t need to do a lot of things, just the right things in the right way, as per your comfort. Start with basic and foundational changes.
1. Let seasons decide your skincare routine
After you come to know your dosha, the second factor that may influence your skin is seasons. It’s vital to make decisions based on seasons as someone with Vata dosha will have to balance out pitta during summers. The goal during the summers should be to balance out the pitta.
2. Cleanse, Mask, Moisturize
If you’re a skincare geek, you already know how important this part of the routine is. Cleanse your face thoroughly and moisturize regularly to stay hydrated. You can use ayurvedic face cleansers that retain the natural moisture. If you have dry skin, apply castor oil or coconut oil masks, and add chickpea flour to your mask if you have oily skin. Use herbal moisturizing lotions for your face. Ayurvedic products will always give you results that last long.
Face Mask
3. Sugar to exfoliate
Sugar may not be healthy for your body, but it sure is for your skin. It is a great exfoliator that retains moisture and boosts cell turnover. For summers, it is a great option because it leaves a cooling effect on your skin. You can make your DIY face scrub by mixing sugar with cooling herbs like rose petals and bhringraj.
4. Raw milk
Cream or milk-based masks are always good for your skin. They soothe irritated skin. Use a cotton ball dipped in milk and wipe your pores once each day. It will cleanse your pores thoroughly and lactic acid and fats present in milk will keep your skin hydrated for longer than you can imagine.
5. Rosewater as a toner
There’s a good reason why rose water makes for an important ingredient for any skin DIY mask. The rose water has a calming effect. It leaves your skin feeling soft and supple. So instead of using chemical-based toners, use rose water as a toner to get the best results.
Rose water
6. Neem oil for spot treatment
Apply neem oil directly to your scars or spots. Leave it overnight to do its magic. It makes great for summers as it is intensely cooling, even more than tea tree oil.
7. Incorporate aloe vera in your routine
Aloe vera is an indispensable ingredient when it comes to ayurvedic skincare. It fights signs of aging and makes skin smooth and hydrated. You can also use it as a toner or a massage gel. The best way to use it is to drink it with your juice. This will keep your body internally healthy and show the glow on your face.
Aloe vera
8. Sesame oil > mouthwash
Using sesame or coconut oil is one of the best options for keeping up your oral hygiene. It not only cleanses your mouth but also strengthens your gums. These are magic ingredients that promote overall health and hygiene.
9. Self-Massage and Oiling
Massage your body from time to time with oils to give it a radiant glow. It is also a stress-relieving chore. You don’t need to spend thousands of bucks to find a massage cream or oil. Just go with extra virgin coconut oil from head to toe for a few minutes before you go to sleep.
Start using the superpower of turmeric, saffron, papaya, sandalwood, lemon, banana, bitter gourd, orange, herbal tea, and so on by using them in your face masks and creams. Take a nutritious diet to promote the overall health of your body and exercise to release your toxins. Your beauty will show inside out. And you want just that, don’t you?
Mir Saeid is the Growth Hacker of Kashmirica, a brand that is poised to ‘Bring Exclusives from Kashmir to You’. An enthusiastic cultural entrepreneur, he is driven by a passion to bring about a social impact. He has a Masters in International Business from the University of Bedfordshire and has worked in leading Marketing positions at various SMEs and Startups for 8+ years.
Intrigued by the crafts of his birthplace, he decided to bring the art on the Global Connoisseur through the internet. A polyglot who speaks English, Arabic, Urdu & Koshur, Mir loves traveling, reading, writing, and spending time on the cricket field – a passion rekindled just recently.
If you love pistachios and you are also pregnant then we have some great news for you!
Eating pista during pregnancy is very beneficial.
Pistachios or pistas aren’t just very delicious but they come laden with several health benefits too. Whether it is eating them raw or adding them to your sweet or savory recipes, these nuts offer a number of benefits.
Pregnancy is a time when eating healthy, nutrient dense food should be your top priority. And while the list of what you can and cannot eat may be a long one, we can tell you one thing for sure- pistachios are great for you when you have them in moderation. Not only do they offer a host of different benefits but are also very delicious and fun to eat. We are here to tell you how you can make your pregnancy diet more interesting with some pistachios.
So, keep reading on, as we tell you more facts and myths on having pistachio in pregnancy, the pista benefits during pregnancy and more. But first, let us find out a little more about pistachios.
What are Pistachios?
Commonly known as ‘pista’, these nuts grow in the subtropical and tropical regions of Asia, Africa and the USA on small trees and shrubs. These tiny green-colored nuts are encased in small light colored shells. One of the oldest nuts known to mankind, pistachios are known to have existed for thousands of years.
Yes, it is definitely safe to have pistachios when you are pregnant. However, like everything else, pistas should also be had in moderation only. Just because you like them or they are good for you, you shouldn’t go overboard eating pistas.
There are some wonderful benefits that this nut offers and especially when you are pregnant. So, make sure that you include pistas in your pregnancy diet but also ensure to keep them in moderation.
Nutritional Facts of Pista
They are a rich source of energy and yet low on calories.
They are packed with nutrients and 30 grams of pistas contain about 6 grams of protein and 2.8 grams of fiber.
These nuts also contain high levels of unsaturated fatty acids and potassium.
Pistachios are also full of several other vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B-6, magnesium, calcium and iron.
Pista Benefits during Pregnancy
Now that you know about its nutritional profile, let us take a look at the health benefits of pistachio during pregnancy in detail.
Pistachios contain all the nutrients that are essential for your health as well as the growth of your baby. One serving of these nuts can almost fulfil all your daily requirements of potassium, iron, folate and calcium. So, here is why you should be eating pista during pregnancy.
1. Prevents Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia is a very common problem among pregnant women. To avoid it, it is extremely essential to have foods that are rich in iron. One such amazing food is pistachio nuts. Pistachio is rich in iron as well as other essential minerals, helps accelerate the absorption of folate and helps in the formation of red blood cells.
So, adding pistachios to your diet during pregnancy will ensure that you stay away from anemia and that your iron levels are always maintained.
What you eat during your pregnancy makes a huge difference as that is also the only source of nutrition for your developing baby. So, the food doesn’t just nourish you but your baby as well. Just as good as pistas are for you, they are good for your baby too.
Since pistachios are a rich source of protein, pista benefits during pregnancy includes it being essential for your baby’s muscles and tissues. Eating pista aids in the development of your unborn baby’s muscles as well as tissues.
3. Help in balancing lipid levels
Another amazing benefit of pistachio in pregnancy is that it helps to balance the lipid levels. Since these nuts are a rich source of monounsaturated fatty acids, they help lower the levels of bad cholesterol and increase the levels of good cholesterol in the body. Thus, they help in balancing out the lipid levels.
Having your cholesterol levels in check is extremely important and more so when you are pregnant. And to help ensure that, eating pistachios regularly is a great way.
4. Help boost immunity
Well, pistas aren’t just taking care for specific health concerns but also for your overall health. Did you know that pistachios are extremely beneficial for boosting your overall immunity as well? Well, that is true as these nuts are a rich source of antioxidants like Vitamin A, Vitamin E, polyphenic compounds as well as carotenes that help in enhancing your overall immunity.
And since staying in the pink of your health is a must during your pregnancy, taking care of your overall immunity is very essential too. So, to keep diseases away and improve your body’s resistance, eating pista during pregnancy is a must.
5. Relieves constipation
Constipation is an issue that is very, very common in pregnant women, especially early in their pregnancy. You might have experienced it yourself or heard of someone who might have had it. Even though it may be common, it can often get annoying and frustrating.
To avoid it, again, pista is your answer. Pistachio in pregnancy is very beneficial as it helps provide relief from constipation. Since it is a very good source of fiber, eating pista during pregnancy will aid in better digestion and thus, help regulate your bowel movements. If you too suffer from constipation during pregnancy, make sure to pop a few pistas in your mouth everyday.
Increased inflammation during pregnancy can cause joint pains as well as swelling, two of the most common problems that pregnant women go through. As annoying as it might be, it can be easily treated by having foods like pistas.
Pista benefits during pregnancy include this wonderful benefit. And so, if you wish to get relief from joint pains, swelling as well as other inflammation-related issues, don’t forget to add pistachios to your daily diet. Isn’t this one of the most amazing pista benefits?
7. Essential for baby’s brain development
If you were thinking those were all the benefits that pistas have, well, there are more. One of the best of them is that eating pista during pregnancy is also beneficial for your baby’s brain development. These nuts contain a good amount of omega 3 fatty acids like oleic and linoleic acids. These fatty acids are known to be extremely good for the proper development of the baby’s brain.
So, to ensure that your baby’s brain develops well and there are no issues later in life, munch on some pistachios in pregnancy.
8. Help manage blood sugar levels
Well, pistachios are also good for you if you are suffering from gestational diabetes or your blood sugar levels tend to be on the higher side. Even pregnant women who have gestational diabetes can have pistachio in pregnancy without worrying. However, it is important to remember that you should eat raw pistachios instead of the salted ones as the salted ones are high on sodium.
Having a low glycaemic index, pistachios don’t cause blood sugar level spikes and hence, are good for you. Several studies have also shown that eating these nuts helps promote healthy blood sugar levels.
So these were the many pista benefits during pregnancy. However, you also need to keep a few things in mind before consuming them.
Tips for consuming pista during pregnancy to avoid side effects
Again, moderation is the key here and you need to consume pistas in moderate quantities only. Having too much of it can give you stomach or digestion related issues such as diarrhoea, bloating or pain in the abdomen.
It is best that you do not consume too much salt during your pregnancy as excess sodium can cause high blood pressure. So, when you choose your pistachios, make sure that you choose only the raw ones and not the salted ones to reap its wonderful benefits.
Some women are known to have nut allergies and if you have a history of nut allergy, you should avoid eating pistachio in pregnancy.
Some FAQs on Eating Pista during Pregnancy
1. Can I eat pista everyday during pregnancy?
Yes, you can have a few pistachios everyday either on their own or along with other nuts. As they are quite healthy, there is no harm in consuming a little quantity daily unless you are allergic to them.
2.How many pistachios can I eat everyday during pregnancy?
Even though healthy, anything in excess can prove harmful to your health. A handful of pistachios is recommended to have during your pregnancy. A handful is approximately 15 to 20 pistas daily. If you still have doubts on how many you should exactly consume, you should confirm once with your medical practitioner or doctor to know what suits your body the best.
3.Are there any side effects of eating pista during pregnancy?
When consumed in excessive quantities, it can lead to digestive issues. And if you have pistas that have high quantities of salt in it, it can cause high blood pressure.
4.What is the best time to have pistachio in pregnancy?
While there is no specific time for when you should have them, you can have a few with your breakfast. You can even eat pistachios in the evening as a snack. Just make sure that you do not eat them too close to your meal time.
How to consume pista during pregnancy?
One of the best things about pistas is that they are very versatile and can be included in your diet in a number of different ways. Here are a few ways of eating pista during pregnancy.
Roast the pistas lightly and have them as they are. You can also mix them with other dried fruits and nuts and have it as a filling and nutritious snack.
Toss some chopped pistachios on a bowl full of mixed fruits and enjoy their delicious crunchy taste.
A few chopped or crushed pistachios can also be added to your milk, shakes or smoothies. Alternatively, you can also make a powder of pistachios with other dry fruits and mix a spoonful of it in a glass of milk and drink it daily. Even simple pista milk tastes delicious.
A few finely diced pistachios can also be tossed over cereals, oatmeal or a bowl of yogurt or curd.
Pistachios also go amazingly well with almost all kinds of desserts and you can just top your desserts with a few of these nuts.
Pistas can also be added to savory recipes such as various chicken dishes pr soups.
Hope you like these super fun ways of having pistachio in pregnancy and you try them out.
Get Munching on some Pistchios
Here we talked about pista benefits during pregnancy, some interesting ways to include them in your diet, how many pistas you should consume in a day and answered some FAQs on consuming pista during pregnancy. Hope this cleared all your doubts on eating pista during pregnancy.
Remember that you should not worry about having pista in pregnancy unless you have been advised by your doctor to not have them. A few pistas daily will go a long way in keeping you healthy and fit. Also remember to choose only raw pistas to get the best, most amazing benefits out of them.
Mir Saeid is the Growth Hacker of Kashmirica, a brand that is poised to ‘Bring Exclusives from Kashmir to You’. An enthusiastic cultural entrepreneur, he is driven by a passion to bring about a social impact. He has a Masters in International Business from the University of Bedfordshire and has worked in leading Marketing positions at various SMEs and Startups for 8+ years.
Intrigued by the crafts of his birthplace, he decided to bring the art on the Global Connoisseur through the internet. A polyglot who speaks English, Arabic, Urdu & Koshur, Mir loves traveling, reading, writing, and spending time on the cricket field – a passion rekindled just recently.
Taking saffron during pregnancy has been advised by doctors as well as elders since ages. Saffron or ‘Kesar’, as it is popularly known in India has numerous wonderful medicinal properties. The spice has always been held in high regard in Ayurveda and used since ancient times not only in cooking but also for cosmetic and healing purposes.
Saffron is actually the dried stigma of a purple colored flower that goes by the name of ‘Crocus sativus’ or simply the saffron flower. Its rarity and the painstaking process that goes behind harvesting it is what makes saffron the most expensive spice in the world.
The spice is extensively used in Indian, Iranian, Spanish as well as some other cuisines of the world. Just a hint of saffron makes several dishes taste and look resplendent along with helping you reap its many benefits.
Now talking about pregnancy, it is believed that if pregnant women have saffron, it can improve the complexion of their baby. However, it is a myth as the complexion of the baby is determined by the genes and not the food that the mother eats. But leaving this myth aside, there are actually several ways that women can benefit by having saffron when they’re pregnant.
Want to know what they are? Then, keep reading to know more about what saffron’s benefits, uses and side effects are during pregnancy.
Benefits of Saffron during Pregnancy
Saffron is highly beneficial for pregnant women to have saffron as it has many amazing medicinal properties and can provide a number of benefits during the gestational period. Let us find out what the benefits of saffron in pregnancy are.
1. Controls Mood Swings
Mood swings are extremely common during the nine months as pregnancy triggers a lot of hormonal changes in your body. From feeling emotional at one moment to irritated at the next, these drastic mood swings are extremely common.
Saffron has antidepressant effects that can help in calming down the mood swings. Intake of this spice boosts the blood flow to your brain. It also produces a hormone called ‘serotonin’ that is known to elevate your mood and keep all those annoying mood swings at bay. Not just that, the intake of saffron is also known to reduce the secretion of a stress hormone called ‘cortisol’.
2. Regulates Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is yet another common issue that pregnant women face. Pregnancy is known to speed up a woman’s heart rate thus causing fluctuations in the blood pressure levels.
If it is ignored, it can lead to some severe complications. Saffron during pregnancy is excellent for blood pressure as it contains potassium, crocin, crocetin as well as safranal.
These wonderful substances work very effectively in combating hypertension and reducing blood pressure. Just a very small quantity of saffron when you are pregnant can prove extremely beneficial in managing blood pressure.
3. Better Digestion
A host of digestive issues ranging from constipation and bloating to heartburn and stomach aches are very common during pregnancy. Persisting digestive disorders can be very annoying and make you feel uncomfortable.
Thus, you must eat foods that ease down the digestion process and make it smooth. Saffron contains wonderful properties that help increase blood flow to the digestive organs, enhancing digestion as well as improving your metabolism.
Intake of saffron can also relieve as well as prevent acidity thus helping you feel better. This is one of the reasons why saffron during pregnancy is very beneficial.
4. Relief from Cramps
Pregnant women are very likely to experience mild to severe cramps during the course of their pregnancy. Depending upon how severe the cramps are, they can cause major discomfort and pain.
In order to accommodate the growing baby, the muscles stretch causing pain and cramps in the stomach and pelvic area. Well, saffron to rescue here as well.
Saffron works amazingly well to naturally fight the pain thus providing relief from the cramps. It soothes and relaxes the muscles, reducing the muscular pain and helping you feel good and comfortable again. So, if you haven’t already, you need to add saffron to your pregnancy diet.
Dealing with morning sickness everyday can take away your joy and help you feel sick and lethargic not just in the morning but all the time. If you are annoyed and irritated because of your morning sickness, we have some good news for you. This wonderful spice called saffron can provide you major relief against your morning sickness as well.
Having some saffron-infused tea works quite effectively in keeping the nausea and other symptoms of morning sickness away. Isn’t that one of the best benefits of saffron in pregnancy?
6. Helps you Sleep Better
Pregnancy is just the beginning of many sleepless nights that are ahead of you. As you progress in your pregnancy and your belly grows, it can get more and more difficult to fall asleep and it may become a challenge to get a good night’s sleep.
If you’re tired of tossing and turning at night or want to prevent that from happening, you need to have saffron. After all, to stay in the pink of your health during your pregnancy and afterwards, you need to get good rest.
Saffron is known to contain some amazing sedative properties that can make you relaxed and help you to sleep better.
7. Helps in Reducing Congestion as well as Allergies
Pregnancy is also a time when you are more prone to infections as well as allergies as your immune system can get weakened.
However, saffron has some incredible anti-inflammatory properties that can protect you from all these infections. Intake of this spice will provide you better protection against nasal congestion, colds, coughs as well as other allergies and infections.
Here, we talked about the top 7 benefits of saffron during pregnancy. Now, let us take a look at it in more detail.
Saffron during pregnancy during first trimester
Although it is safe to start taking saffron any time during your pregnancy, it is believed that saffron should be avoided in the first trimester.
While a few strands won’t do you any harm, it is better to consult your doctor before you begin saffron consumption in your first trimester.
Saffron During the Second Trimester of Pregnancy
It is completely safe to start having saffron from the second half of your second trimester i.e. beginning from the fifth month.
Although safe to start having it from the beginning of your second trimester, it is recommended that you begin the intake of saffron from your fifth month of pregnancy.
Saffron During the Third Trimester of Pregnancy
It is totally safe to consume saffron in your third trimester of pregnancy and having it can give you optimum benefits.
Saffron in 9th month of Pregnancy
Saffron is quite beneficial in the 9th month of pregnancy as it works as a muscle relaxant and prepares your body for labor and childbirth.
Saffron in 8th month of Pregnancy
You should also be having saffron in your 8th month of pregnancy as it can help you sleep better, provide relief against cramps and keep you in a good mood.
Saffron during pregnancy according to Unani Medicine
Saffron in pregnancy is also given a lot of importance in the traditional medicine systems practiced in India, including Unani medicine.
An expecting woman is encouraged to have it owing to the many benefits that saffron has.
Some points to remember before having saffron in pregnancy
Although saffron is amazing for you, it should only be had in moderation as excess saffron can prove harmful. You should not have more than 2 to 3 strands of saffron (around 250mg) daily.
Make sure that the saffron is of highest quality as cheap quality or fake saffron can be harmful too. So, be very careful and particular about where you source your saffron from.
Saffron During Pregnancy: Side Effects
Excess of anything, no matter how good, can be harmful. And that includes saffron too. Although saffron is very good for pregnant ladies, you only need a very small quantity of it to reap its benefits.
Excess intake of saffron can lead to contractions and even lead to preterm labour or a misscarriage.
Saffron during Pregnancy: Uses
A glass of saffron milk daily is the best way for pregnant ladies to get their daily dose of this spice.
Saffron can also be added to various dishes like biryani, rice, pasta, desserts and a lot more to enhance their taste.
How to prepare saffron milk for pregnant ladies?
Soak about three strands of saffron in a tablespoon or two of milk for about 20 to 30 minutes.
Heat a glass of milk in a pan and also add the saffron-infused milk to it. Add a pinch of turmeric and a spoonful of sugar (if you prefer it sweet) to it and let the milk heat well.
Let the milk boil well and then transfer it to a glass.
Additionally, you can also add some finely chopped dry fruits like almonds and pistachios or dry fruit powder to it for an enhanced taste.
Enjoy!
A glass of saffron milk at night is the best way to enjoy saffron during pregnancy.
Over to You
I hope my research and experience as a student of nutrition helps you in knowing more about the use of saffron during pregnancy. You can connect on the comments section to ask specific questions.
Mir Saeid is the Growth Hacker of Kashmirica, a brand that is poised to ‘Bring Exclusives from Kashmir to You’. An enthusiastic cultural entrepreneur, he is driven by a passion to bring about a social impact. He has a Masters in International Business from the University of Bedfordshire and has worked in leading Marketing positions at various SMEs and Startups for 8+ years.
Intrigued by the crafts of his birthplace, he decided to bring the art on the Global Connoisseur through the internet. A polyglot who speaks English, Arabic, Urdu & Koshur, Mir loves traveling, reading, writing, and spending time on the cricket field – a passion rekindled just recently.
Dry fruits and nuts are always a must for a healthy and fit life and more so when you are pregnant. What you eat largely determines the growth and health of your baby. Being rich in essential nutrients like proteins, fiber, and several vitamins and minerals, dry fruits during pregnancy are an absolute necessity.
Having certain dry fruits throughout your pregnancy won’t just ensure proper nourishment to your growing baby but also fulfill your requirements of certain nutrients and ensure a smooth and happy pregnancy.
So, in this article, we talk about everything that you need to know regarding consuming dry fruits when you’re pregnant.
Almonds are one of the healthiest of dry fruits and you should definitely add them to your pregnancy diet. When added in moderate quantities to your diet, almonds are very beneficial and aid a healthy pregnancy.
These protein-rich nuts help in the healthy development of muscle mass in your growing baby. Eating them is also essential for the mother to gain strength to cope with the labour pain.
Almonds also provide folic acid, which is crucial for the brain and neurological development of the baby. Being a good source of the healthy fats, almonds also reduce the oxidative stress and inflammation and reduce the chances of the baby developing metabolic disorders later in its life.
These nuts are also an excellent source of Vitamin E, manganese, calcium, fibre, riboflavin as well as magnesium which are extremely essential for both the mother and her baby.
The best way to consume almonds would be by soaking around 6 to 8 almonds overnight and having them in the morning after removing their skin. You can also have almond milk or eat a few raw ones with other dry fruits.
When talking about dry fruits for pregnancy, walnuts are essential too. They’re a very good source of Omega 3 fatty acids, a nutrient extremely beneficial for both the mother and the baby. These fats are essential for the development of brain activity in the baby.
Walnuts too, are rich in folic acid and all pregnant women are advised to have enough folic acid during the course of their pregnancy. It not only aids brain and neurological development but also reduces the risk of neural tube defects and congenital malformations in the baby.
Eating walnuts during pregnancy also helps maintain the lipid profile. Pregnancy is also a time when you can feel emotional, sad or depressed. However, eating walnuts can help you ward off these feelings.
Walnuts also contain copper, a mineral that ensures proper growth and development of the baby.
These healthy nuts are full of essential nutrients that are required by an expecting woman. You can add walnuts to your pregnancy diet in many ways. Have a few of them (around 5) everyday as snacks. You can even chop a few walnuts and add them to other dishes like salads, soup, cereals, desserts etc.
Dried Apricots are one of the healthiest dry fruits during pregnancy. Pregnant women are always advised to have enough intake of iron rich foods. And dried apricots are one such superfood that can up your iron intake. Thus, having them can also prevent and treat anemia.
Being a rich source of fiber, these dried fruits also keep digestive issues at bay during pregnancy.
Many women also suffer from gestational diabetes. However, eating dried apricots is also known to maintain the blood sugar levels and prevent diabetes during pregnancy.
These nutritious dried fruits can also prove effective in treating swelling during pregnancy as they are a rich source of potassium.
Eating dried apricots isn’t just beneficial for the expecting mother but for the baby as well. The nutrients present in them help with foetal bone development, prevent congenital disabilities and are essential for their overall growth.
All in all, dried apricots are one of the best dry fruits for pregnant ladies. And there are many ways you can add this delicious food to your diet.
To give in to your sweet cravings, have some dried apricot. Blend some dried apricots with milk and make a delicious and filling shake. You can also chop them up and add to your cereal, desserts etc.
Dried figs are also a very healthy dried fruit that pregnant ladies must have. They are a rich source of calcium, iron, potassium, copper, magnesium and phosphorus along with A, E, K, D and B vitamins and fiber.
Containing good amounts of fiber, dried figs act as laxatives and help in dealing with digestive issues. The calcium content in them helps strengthen the bones of both the baby as well as the mother.
They are also a good source of folate and Omega 3 that help in brain development of the baby.
They are also beneficial for you in many ways. Eating dried figs during pregnancy is known to lower the risk of anaemia, regulate blood sugar levels, ease out morning sickness and keep cravings under control.
All of these reasons make dried figs one of the best dry fruits for pregnant ladies. However, these should only be had in moderation. Around 1 to 3 of them daily are enough to reap the benefits.
You can have one dried fig with your breakfast, as a dessert or even during your snack time. You can even add it to milk to make milkshake or smoothie, sprinkle over your cereal or salad or add to other recipes.
Raisins are also among the best dry fruits during pregnancy. They are a very good source of fibre, iron, calcium, magnesium as well as other essential nutrients.
The fibre content in raisins helps deal with constipation and other digestive issues during pregnancy. Being a rich source of iron, they boost your blood cell count and haemoglobin levels. More iron also means that your chances of being affected by anaemia are significantly reduced.
Swollen gums or gingivitis is also a very common issue that women face during their pregnancy. Well, raisins to the rescue here as well. Since these dry fruits are rich in calcium and oleanolic acid, they promote dental health by protecting your teeth and gums.
As raisins are naturally sweet, they are a good source of glucose and fruit sugars. This means that eating raisins can give you instant energy and help fight tiredness or fatigue.
What’s more, eating raisins is beneficial for your baby too as it helps with eyesight development and makes the bones stronger.
A handful of raisins daily is sufficient to give you its incredible benefits. One way you can consume them is by soaking a few of them in water for about an hour. After they are soaked, eat them with some hot milk before you sleep.
You can also have some raisins after your meals as a dessert. They can also be mixed with other dry fruits and nuts and some honey and be eaten as snacks.
If we talk about the healthiest dry fruits during pregnancy, cashews cannot be left behind. Cashews can provide you with all the essential nutrients that you need during your pregnancy. They are a very good source of calcium, zinc, folic acid, iron, fiber, magnesium and Vitamin K.
Cashews, being rich in fiber, are excellent for overall digestion and fighting issues like constipation and diarrhoea. Being a very good source of iron, they help prevent and fight anemia and increase your haemoglobin levels.
These nuts are also a very good source of calcium and magnesium and hence they are known to promote bone health in both the mother as well as the baby. The magnesium present in them also helps in lowering high blood pressure and relieving fatigue.
Eating cashews also helps prevent gum and tooth decay in pregnant women. They are also known to maintain lipid levels.
Being a good source of Vitamin K, cashews prevent blood clotting during pregnancy.
Even though they are very good for you, make sure that you have cashew nuts in moderation. You can have them raw or roast and season them before eating. You can also mix them with other dry fruits and nuts and make a wholesome snack.
Now that we have taken a look at some of the best dry fruits during pregnancy, let us take a look at how you can consume them trimester-wise.
Dry Fruits during First Trimester of Pregnancy
You should start eating dry fruits and nuts early on in your pregnancy. A handful of almonds, walnuts, raisins, dried figs are very good during pregnancy. Studies have suggested that women who start eating nuts and dry fruits early on in their pregnancies have brainier kids.
Even in your second trimester of pregnancy, you should continue eating dry fruits in moderation. A handful of these throughout the day will go a long way in ensuring that you have a healthy pregnancy.
Dry Fruits during Third Trimester of Pregnancy
Dry fruits are also very essential in your third trimester. Make sure you eat a variety of them daily and especially walnuts. You might have trouble falling asleep in your third trimester and that’s where walnuts come handy.
Eating them is known to maintain the levels of melatonin and thus induce sleep. Hence, make sure that you do not miss out on walnuts in your third trimester.
Over to You
Here, we talked about the amazing benefits of dry fruits during pregnancy and the best way to consume them. So, if you haven’t already, make sure to add them to your daily diet.
Mir Saeid is the Growth Hacker of Kashmirica, a brand that is poised to ‘Bring Exclusives from Kashmir to You’. An enthusiastic cultural entrepreneur, he is driven by a passion to bring about a social impact. He has a Masters in International Business from the University of Bedfordshire and has worked in leading Marketing positions at various SMEs and Startups for 8+ years.
Intrigued by the crafts of his birthplace, he decided to bring the art on the Global Connoisseur through the internet. A polyglot who speaks English, Arabic, Urdu & Koshur, Mir loves traveling, reading, writing, and spending time on the cricket field – a passion rekindled just recently.
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