Zobo drink is a familiar beverage loved by Nigerians. It is produced from dried roselle or sorrel leaves (Hibiscus Sabdariffa). This bright red drink is loved both for every day and as a refreshment drink in parties. This drink has many advantages: available, affordable, tasty, and refreshing and also has a lot of healthy benefits.
Zobo is not only refreshing, it can also be used to regulate blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, strengthen blood vessels, calm the nerves, reduce stress, for weight loss, and to improve sex drive. However, extensive literature review by Public health Nigeria revealed several reasons why pregnant women and Nursing mothers should avoid zobo drink.
Why Zobo Is Not Safe For Pregnant Women & Breast Feeding Mothers
A study published in the African journal of alternative and complementary medicine revealed that consuming zobo drink during pregnancy increases the possibility of giving birth to babies with low birth weight (LBW) possibly through the gluconeogenic activities of the elevated serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT). Results from a similar study which evaluated the effect of zobo drink during breast feeding also revealed that consuming zobo drink during lactation decreased maternal food and fluid intake, delays the onset of puberty in the female offspring and increased postnatal weight gain all of which are detrimental to health.
Zobo may be a healthy drink for most people but it is a drink that pregnant women and nursing mothers must avoid due to its implication on maternal and child health. But one amazingly healthy drink that Improves milk production that can be consumed by pregnant Women and Nursing Mothers is Kunu Drink.
– PublicHealthNig