The Truth About Bitter Kola: Is It Good for Pregnant Women?

Pregnancy is a crazy ride — cravings all day, mood swings, and the endless comments and advice you get from everyone you meet can be overwhelming. 

One of the things you have probably heard at least once during this period is bitter kola. So many people talk and boast about how bitter kola can help with all kinds of benefits for you. So is bitter kola good for pregnant women? Here’s the thing…

What is Bitter Kola?

Garcinia kola – or bitter kola, as it is commonly known – is a small brown nut, resembling a miniature cocoa bean. In West African traditional healing, this nut is used to treat everything from coughs to schistosomiasis to weight loss, rejuvenation, building vitality, and treat nausea.

Bitter Kola and Pregnancy: The Good, the Bad, and the Unknown

The thing is, bitter kola might be good, but pregnancy is a different level, and not everything good for others is good for you.

Bitter kola contains caffeine and while it’s not as intense as drinking coffee, it’s something to be mindful of. 

According to WebMD, bitter kola contains caffeine, which can cross the placenta and affect the developing fetus. Excessive caffeine intake during pregnancy has been linked to an increased risk of miscarriage and low birth weight. 

Therefore, pregnant women should exercise caution when consuming bitter kola or any other products containing caffeine.

Bitter kola also stimulates the uterus. That sounds good until you realize you could be talking about premature contractions. 

According to a study published in the African Journal of Reproductive Health, traditional herbal remedies, including bitter kola, should be used with caution during pregnancy due to the potential risks of uterine stimulation and the lack of comprehensive research on their safety during this period.

Another issue here is that we don’t have a lot of research on how bitter kola affects pregnant women. And when it comes to your baby, ‘better safe than sorry’ is the motto to live by. 

So, Is Bitter Kola Good For Pregnant Women?

No, bitter Kola is not good for pregnant women. Tempting as it might be to experiment with bitter kola for a burst of energy or to ease your nausea, talk to your doctor first. You’re better off sticking with pregnancy-specific medical guidance. 

Pregnancy is a special time and, now more than ever, your health choices should be considered. Bitter kola may be soothing to a parched throat, but it’s one of those things that’s probably best avoided during pregnancy. Stick with the tried and true advice of your healthcare provider – nothing is more important than your health and your baby’s! 

Bitter Kola Alternatives 

1. Ginger

2. Lemon

Good for you because it’s a natural energizer and a great source of vitamin C, which is good for the immune system. 

3. Peppermint

Peppermint is a recognized agent for calming the digestive system and can ease bloating and indigestion during pregnancy. 

4. Fennel Seeds

Pregnancy often leads to lots of bloating and heartburn, and fennel seeds are a safe way to ease stomach discomfort.

5. Apples

An easy-to-prepare, simple, healthful snack full of fiber and natural energy without caffeine. 

6. Almonds

Almonds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They’re a great snack food to keep your blood sugar levels balanced.