On the 7th of April 2024, a deep dive into the world of zobo, a beloved Nigerian beverage crafted from dried hibiscus flower calyxes, reveals its allure through its vivid hue, tantalizing flavor, and touted health perks.
Celebrated for its abundance of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, zobo stands as a delectable and nutritious substitute for sugary beverages, championed by many for its potential health boosts.
However, beneath its surface lies a cautionary tale spun by numerous health experts, warning of potential risks associated with zobo consumption during pregnancy.
According to a fact-check investigation by Dubawa, consensus among several experts suggests that indulging in zobo during pregnancy might heighten the likelihood of miscarriage, especially in the early stages of gestation.
Grace Odoma, a matron at Novelty Hospital, Abuja, emphasized the presence of agents in zobo that inhibit estrogen production, crucial for fertility and uterine health, potentially leading to adverse outcomes such as low birth weight and premature labor.
Despite arguments attributing uterine relaxation to the pineapple content in zobo, Dr. Jeremiah Agim from the National Hospital, Abuja, presented studies indicating hibiscus sabdariffa’s role in uterine relaxation, necessitating further investigation to solidify claims.
Supporting these cautionary sentiments, Dr. Lynda Effiong-Agim from Chivar Specialist Hospital, Abuja, underscored the significance of animal studies linking zobo consumption to miscarriage, urging prudence until human research offers clarity.
However, conflicting perspectives emerge from scientific literature. A review published in Planta Medica in 2013 found no concrete evidence supporting hibiscus sabdariffa’s safety during pregnancy and lactation, urging vigilance until human studies clarify its effects.
Similarly, a 2016 study stressed the need for comprehensive understanding of hibiscus sabdariffa’s efficacy and potential harm during pregnancy and lactation, with no robust clinical evidence endorsing its use in these periods.
Fidelis Chukwuma, a Lagos-based nutritionist, echoed concerns over zobo’s potential negative impact during pregnancy, particularly highlighting the risk of gestational diabetes due to its high sugar content, a condition associated with various maternal and fetal complications.
Moreover, he cautioned against contamination and foodborne illnesses, emphasizing the vulnerability of pregnant women to such infections due to immune system changes and hormonal fluctuations.
Further insights from research conducted on rats by Dr. Iyare E. E. and Dr. Iyare, F. E., suggest that maternal consumption of hibiscus sabdariffa extract during pregnancy may affect weight gain and postpartum weight loss, potentially through mechanisms yet to be fully elucidated.
Emmanuel Onyekwere, a food microbiologist and public health expert, raised concerns about nutrient absorption interference caused by compounds in hibiscus leaves, exacerbating iron deficiency anemia, a common issue during pregnancy with serious consequences for both mother and child.
Steven Edwards, a microbiologist and public health researcher, highlighted the uterine-stimulating properties of hibiscus, urging caution to prevent complications such as premature labor or miscarriage, particularly in the third trimester.
He also warned of potential drug interactions and medication effects, emphasizing the importance of consulting healthcare providers before consuming zobo or other herbal products during pregnancy.
Addressing dehydration risks, an online health resource emphasized zobo’s diuretic properties, which, if consumed excessively, could lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, jeopardizing maternal and fetal health.
In conclusion, while zobo offers a tempting indulgence, expectant mothers are advised to approach it with caution, prioritizing informed choices, moderation, and consultation with healthcare providers to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy journey for themselves and their babies.
