Easy Ways to Include Ragi During Pregnancy Third Trimester
Nutrition is crucial during pregnancy, particularly during the third trimester. Pregnancy is a wonderful journey. The baby grows quickly during the third trimester, the last stage of pregnancy, and the mother's body requires more calcium, energy, and nutrients. Ragi is a great, healthful food to eat during this time.
Finger millet, or ragi, is a whole grain that is high in iron, calcium, fiber, and protein. Incorporating ragi during pregnancy third trimester can benefit the health of both the mother and the unborn child.
In this blog, we will explore easy ways to include ragi in your diet during the third trimester.
What Is Ragi?
Ragi is also known as finger millet. It is a traditional grain that has been eaten in India for many years. Ragi is rich in calcium, iron, fiber, and natural energy. It is easy to digest when prepared properly.
Because of its high nutrition value, ragi during pregnancy third trimester is considered very beneficial.
1. Ragi Porridge for Breakfast
Ragi porridge is easy to make and gentle on the stomach. It provides instant energy and keeps you full for longer.
How to make:
· Take 2 tablespoons of ragi flour.
· Mix with milk or water and cook on low flame.
· Add a little jaggery or honey for taste.
Key Benefits of Ragi During Pregnancy Third Trimester
· High calcium helps in baby’s bone development
· Iron helps prevent weakness and low hemoglobin
· Fiber helps reduce constipation
· Keeps the stomach full for a longer time
· Provides steady energy to the mother
Why it is good:
Ragi porridge is rich in calcium and iron, which helps in baby’s bone development and prevents anemia in mothers.
Mini FAQ:
Q1: Can I eat ragi porridge daily in the third trimester?
A1: Yes, daily consumption is safe and very beneficial.
Q2: Can I use almond milk instead of regular milk?
A2: Yes, almond milk is a healthy alternative.
2. Ragi Dosa or Ragi Roti
Ragi can also be used to make dosa or roti, which are easy to digest and nutritious.
How to make:
· Mix ragi flour with water to make a batter for dosa.
· For roti, knead ragi flour with a little wheat flour or water.
· Cook on a non-stick pan.
Why it is good:
These dishes are high in fiber, which helps in preventing constipation, a common problem in late pregnancy.
This is a great way to enjoy ragi during pregnancy third trimester without feeling bored.
Mini FAQ:
Q1: Can I eat ragi dosa at night?
A1: Yes, it is light and easy to digest, suitable for dinner.
Q2: Is it okay to mix ragi with wheat flour?
A2: Yes, mixing with wheat flour improves taste and makes it soft.
3. Ragi Malt or Smoothies
Ragi malt is a quick and healthy drink for pregnant women. You can also add fruits and nuts to make a nutritious smoothie.
How to make:
· Mix 2 tablespoons of ragi flour in warm milk.
· Add a little jaggery or dates for sweetness.
· Optionally, blend with banana or berries for extra nutrition.
Why it is good:
Ragi malt provides energy, protein, and minerals. It is a perfect snack between meals in the third trimester.
Mini FAQ:
Q1: Can I drink ragi malt twice a day?
A1: Yes, it is safe and helps maintain energy levels.
Q2: Can I use soy milk instead of cow’s milk?
A2: Yes, soy milk is a healthy vegan option.
4. Ragi Laddoo for Quick Energy
Ragi laddoo is an easy snack to make at home and is very nutritious.
How to make:
· Roast ragi flour lightly.
· Mix with jaggery and a little ghee.
· Shape into small balls.
Why it is good:
Ragi laddoo is rich in calcium and iron, helps with baby’s bone growth, and is good for anemia prevention.
Mini FAQ:
Q1: Can I eat 1-2 laddoos daily?
A1: Yes, 1-2 laddoos a day are safe and healthy.
Q2: Can I store laddoos for a week?
A2: Yes, keep them in an airtight container.
5. Ragi Upma or Savory Dishes
Ragi is not only for sweets; it can be used in upma, porridge, or savory dishes for a healthy lunch or dinner.
How to make:
· Roast ragi flour and mix with water or vegetable stock.
· Add vegetables like carrot, beans, or peas.
· Cook until soft and serve warm.
Why it is good:
These dishes are light, nutritious, and high in fiber. They also prevent acidity and constipation in the third trimester.
Mini FAQ:
Q1: Can I replace rice with ragi in my meals?
A1: Yes, ragi is a healthy alternative to rice.
Q2: Is ragi upma suitable for evening meals?
A2: Yes, it is light and easy to digest.
6. Tips to Include Ragi Daily
· Mix ragi flour in milk, smoothies, or porridge.
· Use ragi flour for rotis, dosas, and laddoos.
· Add vegetables or fruits to make meals more nutritious.
· Drink ragi malt as a snack between meals.
Mini FAQ:
Q1: How much ragi is safe daily?
A1: 30-50 grams of ragi flour daily is good for the third trimester.
Q2: Can ragi help with morning sickness?
A2: Yes, ragi is light and easy to digest, which may help.
Who Should Avoid Ragi?
Some women may have:
· Sensitive digestion
· Thyroid issues
· Excess gas problem
In such cases, ragi should be eaten only after consulting a doctor. Otherwise, ragi during pregnancy third trimester is safe for most women.
Why Choose Maa Mitahara?
Maa Mitahara focuses on:
· Traditional nutrition
· Simple and clean ingredients
· Mother-friendly food ideas
· Balanced pregnancy diet guidance
We support mothers with easy food solutions that are safe, natural, and nourishing.
Conclusion
Including ragi during pregnancy third trimester is a simple and effective way to boost nutrition. Ragi is rich in calcium, protein, iron, and fiber, which supports baby’s growth and keeps the mother healthy.
At Maa Mitahara, we recommend easy ways like porridge, laddoos, dosa, rotis, and malt to make ragi a part of your daily diet. Small changes can make a big difference in health during the final trimester.
Healthy mother, healthy baby