Is Bel Sharbat safe during pregnancy? - #11419
I’m currently expecting, and I’ve been trying to find natural, healthy drinks to stay hydrated and nourished throughout my pregnancy. I’ve heard a lot about Bel Sharbat (made from the Bael fruit) and its cooling properties, but I’m wondering if it is safe during pregnancy. From what I understand, Bel Sharbat is great for digestive health and can help cool the body, but I’m not sure if it’s safe for pregnant women. Can Bel Sharbat help with conditions like acid reflux or constipation, which I’ve been experiencing during pregnancy? Is it safe to consume regularly, or should it only be used occasionally? I’ve heard that Bael fruit is sometimes used to treat diarrhea or fever, so is it beneficial for those symptoms during pregnancy, or could it potentially cause any side effects? Are there any other precautions I should take when consuming Bel Sharbat while pregnant, such as avoiding certain ingredients or limiting the quantity? Lastly, how should Bel Sharbat be prepared for pregnant women—should it be made fresh at home, or are store-bought versions safe? I would love to get some insight into this, especially from others who may have used Bel Sharbat during pregnancy.
100% Anonymous
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Bel Sharbat, made from Bael fruit, is known for its cooling properties and digestive benefits, making it helpful for conditions like acid reflux and constipation, which are common during pregnancy. It can soothe the stomach and improve digestion. However, it is important to consume it in moderation.
While Bel Sharbat can help with minor digestive issues, excessive consumption of Bael fruit may have potential side effects, such as affecting blood sugar levels or causing gastrointestinal issues in some individuals. It is always best to consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating it into your routine during pregnancy.
For safety, fresh Bel Sharbat made at home is preferable to store-bought versions, which may contain preservatives or added sugars. Limit the quantity and avoid any added ingredients that might not be safe during pregnancy.
To ensure it’s safe and effective, use Bel Sharbat occasionally and consult with your doctor for personalized guidance.
So, you’re right to be cautious about what you consume during pregnancy. The Bel fruit, or Bael, is quite celebrated in Ayurveda for its benefits, especially on the digestive system. It cooling properties can be really beneficial, particularly in soothing what you’re experiencing like acid reflux or constipation. However, any new dietary addition should be carried with some thought — especially during pregnancy.
Bel Sharbat is generally considered safe during pregnancy as long as it’s consumed in moderation. Moderation is key here. It’s not something you’d wanna go overboard with, okay? Just a glass every now and then should be okay. The reason some caution is advised is that consuming it in excessive amounts may have an astringent effect, potentially leading to constipation instead of helping with it. Kind of ironic, huh?
As for diarrhea or fever, while the fruit is often used for such conditions due to its cooling and balancing qualities, always keep track of how your body responds. Every individual’s body reacts differently, especially during pregnancy, due to changing hormonal balances.
When it comes to preparation, fresh is always better! Home-made Bel Sharbat ensures you know exactly what’s going in there. Use the pulp of fresh, ripe Bael fruit and mix it with water. For taste, you can add a tiny bit of jaggery or honey, but keep sugar-lite to prevent any unnecessary spikes in blood sugar.
Store-bought versions can have preservatives or added sugars, so do check labels carefully if that’s your only option. Even choose ones with the least processing and additives if possible.
Also, before you consider it a regular part of your diet, run it past your healthcare provider, especially if you’re dealing with specific health conditions. It’s always best to play safe! Ensure you’re getting adequate intake of fluids - water, coconut water, fresh juices alongside sharbat as these are plenty hydrating too.
Any signs of discomfort, stop using it immediately and speak to a healthcare professional. Pregnancy considerations always need this touch of extra care. Hope this helps!

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.