Kvass during pregnancy: benefits and harms

There are different opinions on the benefits or harms of kvass during pregnancy. Some point out that natural kvass, especially home kvass, contains many vitamins, minerals and acids, which have a beneficial effect on the body of both mother and child. Others remind us that this drink contains alcohol, albeit in small amounts. It is also a fermented product, so it can exacerbate digestive problems, especially if a woman has GI disorders.

Doctors have rather a clear opinion on this question. If there are no medical contraindications to the consumption of kvass, this drink may be drunk in small amounts. It can really have a favorable effect on well-being, help quench thirst, and control appetite. Alcohol in it is negligible to harm the fetus. However, like other drinks, kvass should be drunk in moderation.

Is it ok to drink kvass during pregnancy?

It is common knowledge that when pregnant a woman's tastes and needs change. Often there is a desire for sour and slightly tart kvass. Pregnancy is not a contraindication to the use of this drink. But it is worth adhering to simple rules that will help not to harm the health of the mother and the baby.

An urgent desire to drink a glass of kvass may indicate a deficiency of any substances. For example, there may be low acidity or lack of micronutrients and vitamins. In this case it is allowed to drink the drink, but no more than one glass per day.

It is also worth paying attention to its quality. In this regard, doctors recommend making your own kvass. Then there is no need to worry about its safety. Factory bottled kvass drinks are often just imitation, with many colors, flavors, and preservatives added. Kvass from a barrel can not be considered safe either, since not only beneficial bacteria can actively develop in this tank, but also pathogenic ones.

It is necessary to monitor the amount of kvass drunk and your own sensations. If after a couple of sips or one glass your health suddenly deteriorates, there are unpleasant sensations, in this case it is better to refuse it at all and find a worthy and safe substitute.

In the first trimester.

It is just in this period that doctors advise to refrain from drinking kvass and in no case to drink more than one glass a day. Such a categorical position is due to certain reasons:

1. It is not uncommon for the first months of pregnancy to be accompanied by severe toxicosis. Kvass contains acids that can increase the acidity of the stomach. Therefore, the use of the product can greatly aggravate the condition, adversely affect the state of health.
2. There are still fermentation processes in the drink. In the first trimester, women often experience discomfort from the digestive system, there are also complaints of bloating and flatulence. Yeast and sugar in kvass become a good source of nutrition for microflora, including pathogenic ones. Consumption of kvass can increase gas. This is especially dangerous when a woman has increased uterine tone or is diagnosed with a possible abortion.
3. Alcohol contained in the drink during the first terms is still dangerous for the fetus. Internal organs are forming at this time. Ethyl alcohol, even in small quantities, can have a strong influence on this process.

Therefore, at this time you should either refuse to drink kvass at all or drink it in limited quantities, not more than 250 ml. At the same time, be sure to monitor your condition and well-being.

The second trimester

This period usually goes more smoothly for women. The fetus is already formed, but its size does not yet limit its movements. If there are no contraindications and your well-being allows, you can drink kvass to refresh and quench your thirst. If in the first trimester it is allowed no more than 200 ml of drink a day, now it is allowed to increase the volume to 2 glasses. But it is not necessary to get carried away by drinking it every day. As any other product, kvass in large quantities may negatively affect the well-being of even a very healthy person.

The content of vitamins, trace elements, organic acids can benefit the health of both the mother and the baby. During this period, the fetus is actively growing. It needs to receive all the necessary elements for everything to happen properly. Usually, nutrients come from the mother's body, and the woman begins to experience a lack of them. Replenishment of useful substances is important in the second trimester. Kvass can be one of the products that can become their source. With the normal work of internal organs it becomes a good remedy for the prevention of edema, which is also very important at this time.

In the third trimester

In the last stage, the mother's body begins to actively prepare for childbirth. In addition, the fetus increases significantly in size, begins to press on the internal organs, which causes some failures in their work. Gassiness may increase again, women often have edema. Therefore, kvass becomes a product in the consumption of which one should be careful. It is necessary to limit its consumption to 250 ml a day or to refuse it altogether, finding an optimal substitute.

But kvass has a useful property that may help women in the last period before childbirth. Expectant mothers often suffer from constipation, which negatively affects the well-being and condition of the baby. Toxins can accumulate in the body. Kvass has a light laxative effect, so it can help to solve this problem.

However, in the third trimester you should use kvass with utmost caution, taking into account how you feel. Increased gas and swelling may provoke an increase of uterine tonus, which is a dangerous condition, as the probability of premature birth increases.

How to drink kvass correctly

It is always worth observing a measure. Abusing the product can have a negative impact on your health. It is worth listening to your own body. If you feel better, it is better to refuse to drink kvass on that day.

How much you can drink per day

Kvass should not be perceived as a substitute for water. This is a drink that can quench thirst, but you should not drink it every day and in large quantities. Pregnant women are not recommended to drink more than 1 glass a day. In the second trimester, you can sometimes drink two. It is also worth taking a break. The daily consumption of kvass also does not contribute to good health. In addition, this drink is drunk cold. And frequent consumption of cold food and drink negatively affects the work of the gastrointestinal tract.

Can kvass be drunk at night and on an empty stomach?

It is not recommended to drink kvass at night. The reason for this is the presence of yeast, which causes fermentation processes in the intestines. Drinking kvass before bedtime can cause intestinal problems and increase the likelihood of gas. In addition, kvass has a laxative effect, so at night you may need to visit the bathroom.

Kvass also contains acids, which cause increased secretion of digestive enzymes. At night the body, including the stomach, needs to rest. If you regularly drink kvass before going to bed, you can provoke an increase in acidity, the appearance of belching, heartburn and exacerbation of gastritis. In this case it is better to replace kvass with a glass of plain drinking water.

But it is quite acceptable to drink kvass before a meal. A glass of kvass 15 minutes before a meal helps to prepare the digestive system for meals and increase appetite. Some experts do not recommend drinking kvass with food, as it provokes the fermentation processes in the stomach and intestines. Therefore, okroshka with kvass is considered not really a healthy dish.

Is it possible to get drunk on kvass

Since kvass is a product of fermentation, it certainly contains a small amount of ethyl alcohol. But its content is so low that the probability of feeling the signs of alcoholic intoxication is negligible. In order that light dizziness occurs, it is necessary to drink not less than 3 liters of strong kvass per day. Normal kvass contains even less alcohol, so it needs at least 6 liters. It is practically impossible to drink such an amount on your own.

If you take into account that pregnant women are advised to drink no more than 1-2 glasses a day, it is impossible to get drunk on kvass. But many factors, including a person's well-being, influence how they feel. Fatigue, tension may be additional factors that, taken together with a glass of kvass, will cause a slight dizziness. But it passes very quickly and does not have serious consequences.

The benefits of kvass during pregnancy

Kvass is a unique product. It contains vitamins B, C and E. Vitamin C helps not only to increase immunity, which is important during pregnancy (as any disease can negatively affect the health of the baby), but also helps sometimes to relieve toxicosis. It also participates in the metabolic process of removing harmful substances from the body, helps to prevent stretch marks and bruises. Vitamin E is involved in the process of embryonic development. It is also a powerful antioxidant, which is important during pregnancy, as there is an increased need to remove toxins and free radicals from the body of the mother.

During pregnancy women often suffer from severe mood swings, as the usual hormonal background is disturbed. B vitamins and magnesium have a beneficial effect on the nervous system. Mom becomes calmer, the reaction to stressful situations is not so strong and active.

Many expectant mothers at this time begin to complain about the deterioration of teeth, nails and hair. Kvass contains calcium and magnesium. They help to strengthen these tissues and have a beneficial effect on the condition of blood vessels and the heart.

Kvass contains many nutrients, it is quite caloric, so its use will help to regulate the diet, so as not to gain excess weight during pregnancy. But here it is worth remembering about the limitations of the consumption volume, because exceeding the allowable norm can lead to the opposite effect.

The yeast and lactobacillus contained in it can improve the state of the intestinal microflora. The product has a mild laxative effect, which is good for the prevention of constipation.

But only a high-quality natural product can bring benefit. Therefore, it is worth giving preference to homemade kvass. In this case, you can always be sure that the product is free of harmful substances, dyes, sweeteners and preservatives.

What is the usefulness of beet kvass

Beet kvass deserves special attention. It is recommended to use it even for therapeutic purposes. The content of beets greatly expands the list of useful substances. The drink is able to remove toxins from the body, which have been accumulated in it for several years. In addition to the content of the usual set of vitamins, beet kvass contains cesium and rubium. They help to lower blood pressure and clear the blood vessels. Also beet is a powerful antioxidant, supports the immune system, which plays an important role during pregnancy, protecting the body not only the mother, but also the child. The product has a lot of enzymes, amino acids, which help to maintain good health.

But there are also limitations, which are worth observing so as not to harm your health. Beets contain a lot of sugar, so drinking such kvass increases blood glucose levels. This is dangerous for women with diabetes. Another limitation is the presence of allergies to beets. An allergic reaction can be very dangerous, and it can also affect the health of the child.

Also, you should not consume beet kvass in the presence of an upset stomach. This type has a stronger laxative effect. Diarrhea is dangerous for the body, because it provokes dehydration and the development of pathogenic bacteria in the intestines.

Beet kvass should not be consumed in large quantities. The norm should not exceed 1 glass per day. Sometimes it is worth reducing and this volume in half. If you observe the precautions, beet kvass will be a good source of vitamins, acids, trace elements.

The benefits of oat kvass

Oats have long gained fame as one of the most useful grain crops. Kvass prepared on the basis of oats or oat flakes acquires all its useful properties, so it is a product that can have a beneficial effect on health. Oat kvass can be consumed by women during pregnancy.

It contains a large list of vitamins, trace elements. They help to maintain the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system, help to reduce blood sugar levels. Pregnant women often feel tired, and oat kvass is a good tonic. Its consumption also calms the nervous system and reduces anxiety. Just like oats, the drink on its basis has a beneficial effect on the liver and gallbladder, but not at the peak of the exacerbation of the disease. In the presence of gallstone disease or disorders of normal liver function, it is better to refrain from oat kvass or drink it only after consulting your doctor.

Oat kvass helps to control appetite, it contains complex carbohydrates, which are long digested by the body, so the satiety effect lasts longer. Protein and vegetable fat are sources for building new cells, which is very important during pregnancy.

But we should not forget about the presence of contraindications. Like any other kvass, oatmeal has a laxative effect, so it should not be used in periods of upset stomach, inflammation of the intestines, so as not to provoke a worsening of the condition and deterioration of health. With caution should be careful with the use of this product those who have liver disease and gastrointestinal tract.

If there are doubts about whether the product will have a beneficial effect on the body, it is better to consult a doctor beforehand and stick to his recommendations.

Can kvass harm a mother-to-be?

No matter how useful the product may be, it has contraindications that should be taken into account. During pregnancy, this issue should be paid special attention to, because the health of the mother directly affects the development and health of the baby. Kvass should not be consumed by those who have the following medical contraindications.

1. Increased gas formation in the intestines, flatulence. This condition not only prevents you from feeling normal, but can also be very dangerous. Bloating puts pressure on the walls of the uterus. This threatens to increase its tone, which is a dangerous condition in both early and late pregnancy. If you have this problem, the use of kvass will only aggravate the condition and cause additional difficulties. In this case, it is worth refusing not only store-bought carbonated kvass, but also that prepared at home.
2. The diagnosis of increased uterine tone and the threat of abortion exclude the consumption of kvass during this period.
3. Exacerbation of gastritis, the presence of ulcers and other diseases of the stomach and intestines in acute form also exclude kvass from the diet of the future mother. The product contains many acids, which have a beneficial effect on digestion, if there are no serious diseases in the phase of their exacerbation. Kvass increases acidity and promotes the production of digestive enzymes, which is dangerous in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. In the presence of such contraindications drinking kvass may intensify toxicosis.
4. High blood pressure and edema. Kvass retains fluid in the body, so in such contraindications has a negative effect.
5. Late toxicosis is a dangerous symptom, so the mother's diet is under strict control. All products that can cause a negative reaction of the body to their consumption are removed from the diet. Kvass is not an exception here.

It should be remembered that no matter how useful kvass is, it is not a must-have product. Therefore, if you have health problems during pregnancy, it is better to use it with caution, or to refuse it altogether.

What kvass to choose for the future mother

The future mother should always choose products of natural origin and production. Therefore, in choosing kvass, you should give priority to the one made at home yourself.

Barrel kvass

This kind of drink has long been recognized as one of the best. It enjoys quite a lot of popularity. There are connoisseurs who prefer to take it only. But the sale of kvass in barrels can not always meet all the hygienic and sanitary norms. There are cases when unscrupulous sellers do not monitor the cleanliness of the keg. Therefore, dangerous microbes can actively reproduce inside and cause severe poisoning or disease. It is also difficult to control the quality of the product itself.

But if the seller is trustworthy, you can consume this kvass. It has a distinct advantage over what is poured into plastic bottles. Barrel kvass is usually more natural and has a pleasant taste. This kind of kvass has a short shelf life.

Store bought

This is the kind of beverage, which should be treated with caution. Rare manufacturers pour in a bottle really kvass. Often the liquid inside is just an imitation of a natural kvass. There are cases where the product does not even go through a fermentation stage. It consists of flavorings, coloring agents, and preservatives that help deceive the consumer. In addition, bottled drinks are almost always artificially carbonated, they do not undergo a full fermentation stage. And carbonated drinks are contraindicated in pregnancy because they cause bloating and flatulence.

In addition, a lot of sugar or sweeteners are often added to store products in order to hide the unpleasant, bitter taste. Pregnant women should avoid products with a lot of sugar, so as not to allow an excessive increase in blood glucose. Also such drinks contribute to rapid weight gain.

Homemade .

This option is the most acceptable. In this case, a person knows exactly what is included in the composition of kvass. He can adjust the taste and content of any substances, based on the preferences and characteristics of his body. But this does not apply to those cases when kvass is made from ready-made store-bought variants of sourdough. Such half-finished products often also contain preservatives, flavor enhancers and coloring agents. This product will not differ much from the store one.

It is better to spend a little time, but get a quality and healthy drink. It is also possible to choose a recipe that will exactly match the tastes. You can enhance its useful properties by adding dried fruit, honey, reducing the amount of sugar.

Recipes for home kvass

There are many ways of making homemade kvass. Each hostess has her own family recipe that meets her tastes. Kvass is made on black bread, yeast or yeast-free, beet, oatmeal, with the addition of honey and dried fruit. Some add spicy and aromatic herbs to the sourdough. You can always find a recipe that will suit your tastes and preferences.

Yeast Kvass

Rye breadcrumbs will be required. They can be purchased or cooked yourself. To do this, cut half a loaf of rye bread into small cubes or bars and dry in the oven. The resulting amount of bread crumbs is enough to make about 3 liters of drink. Pour the breadcrumbs in a jar, add half of 1 cup sugar. All this pour hot boiled water. Meanwhile, 6 g of dry yeast (usually 1 packet), dilute in a separate container in a small amount of warm, but not hot water. When the temperature of the liquid in the jar falls to 25 degrees, add the yeast. Leave the jar for 2 days in a warm sunny place. The resulting drink strain and store in the refrigerator for no more than 5 days.

Yeastless kvass

For its preparation you will need a little more time, but it will be more useful, since the fermentation process occurs naturally. Received from half a loaf of rye bread bread crumbs pour 3 liters of hot water. Also pour 1 cup of sugar into the jar. Let the liquid cool down to 25 degrees. Then add a handful of raisins. Infuse kvass for 4 days, maintaining a temperature of 25 degrees. Then strain the drink, add more sugar to your taste and let stand for 10-12 hours. Store in the refrigerator for no more than 4 days.

Beet kvass

Ingredients:

• 1 kg of beets;
• 1 garlic clove;
• 2 liters of water;
• 30-40 grams of black bread;
• 1 tbsp. sugar;
• salt to taste.

Preparation:

1. Chop the peeled beets. You can grate them on a grater, chop them or put through a meat grinder. Grate or mince the garlic, or pass it through a meat grinder.
2. Prepared beets and garlic put in a glass jar.
3. Boil water and pour it into the prepared products.
4. Then add bread, sugar and salt. Stir it up.
5. Cover with gauze or sieve, put in a warm and dark place for 6-7 days.

Ready to drink strain, store in the refrigerator no more than 5 days.

Kvass from whole oats

Ingredients:

• 400 g of oats;
• 3 liters of water;
• 2 tbsp. honey;
• 3 tbsp. sugar.

Preparation:

1. First make the starter. To do this, wash the oats and pour them into a jar, add sugar to it. Pour 2/3 of the jar with warm water, its temperature should not exceed 30 degrees. Fill the remaining volume with boiling water.
2. Mix the ingredients, close the jar tightly. The leaven will need a day to infuse.
3. During the allotted time in the container should begin the process of fermentation. Bubbles and foam appear, and the water becomes cloudy. It must be drained to avoid splashing grains, it is better to use gauze or sieve.
4. In a jar again pour already fresh warm water, add honey, mix. Neck cover with gauze. Infusion first two days at room temperature. Then strain it and leave for another as long in the refrigerator.

Kvass of oat flakes

Ingredients:

• 300 g of flakes;
• 5 l of water;
• 100 gr honey;
• 50 g raisins.

Preparation:

1. Boil some water and pour it oat flakes, let stand.
2. At the bottom of a three-liter jar put cereal, 2 tbsp. honey, 1 tbsp. raisins.
3. Boil 2.5 liters of water, cool a little and pour into the jar. Cover the neck with gauze or a sieve and leave to ferment for two days in a dark place at room temperature.
4. The starter will begin to ferment, the water will become turbid, there will be foam on the surface. Drain most of the cloudy liquid, and add the rest of the honey and raisins. Pour 2.5 liters of hot, but not boiling water. Again, allow to stand for two days in a dark place, cover the jar with gauze.
5. Then strain the kvass, store in the refrigerator no more than 48 hours.

Sourdough should not be used more than twice. It quickly loses its properties.