Benefits Of Organic EVOO While Breastfeeding – You Are Mom
EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) is one of the staples of the Mediterranean diet. It has a series of essential nutrients capable of exerting health benefits. Indeed, it is a cardioprotector and a good agent to control inflammation.
However, it is also possible to include this product in the routines of pregnant women to achieve a series of special positive effects. During this period, it is important to ensure a certain caloric surplus, as well as to meet the increased nutritional requirements.
The impact of EVOO used as an element for topical use
A study published in the journal Health Care for Women International indicates that applying EVOO to the nipple area of women while breastfeeding reduces pain and chapping. This then allows the feeding period to be extended, which generates health benefits for the child.
Remember that breastfeeding is the best food for the baby. It contains a series of essential nutrients and bioactive compounds capable of ensuring optimal development. In addition, its contribution throughout the first year of life reduces the incidence of autoimmune problems.
The research analyzed a total of 120 women, finding a significant effect on preventing nipple problems compared to the placebo group. For this reason, it might be a good idea as a treatment. However, applying breast milk to the nipple is just as effective in reducing pain and cracking.
One of the reasons for the protective nature of EVOO on the skin is its content of antioxidants and vitamin E. These elements succeed in preventing tissue degeneration, in addition to ensuring its hydration. Its boldness also helps in the process.
The benefits of consuming EVOO while breastfeeding
However, EVOO does not only have advantages when applied locally. Its consumption during the breastfeeding period also generates positive effects. In this case on the health of the fetus. It is a food that is distinguished by its concentration of fatty acids of the omega 3 series.
These compounds are capable of helping the development of the brain in infants. Its intake in adequate doses also reduces the risk of developing behavioral disorders and other cognitive pathologies.
On the other hand, it stabilizes the inflammatory mechanisms. This is linked to a lower risk of developing complex pathologies in the future. Among them, cardiovascular disease.
It is important to use raw EVOO
Keep in mind that to extract the benefits of EVOO, it is necessary that this food be used or eaten raw. If subjected to aggressive heat treatments, its fatty acids can change to the trans type. These elements, however, are associated with increased levels of inflammation in the body.
Likewise, trans lipids can increase the risk of developing complex diseases, such as type 2 diabetes. This is demonstrated by a study published in the journal Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome . It is a chronic disease that gets worse over time and affects a person’s well-being.
The ingestion of these compounds during the early stages of life is considered particularly harmful, as trans lipids also have an impact on the diversity of the microbiota. In this way, their functions are altered.
Olive oil is a beneficial element during breastfeeding
As discussed, it is possible to enjoy several benefits of EVOO while breastfeeding. Topical application to the nipple area reduces pain, cracks, and irritation. Likewise, its food consumption modulates inflammation and ensures the development of the baby’s brain system.
However, try to consume EVOO in moderation. Although it is classified as beneficial, it has a high caloric density. Indeed, its inclusion in the diet in large quantities could generate an energy imbalance, which results in an increase in the body weight of women.
