During pregnancy, you may receive a lot of advice about what you should and should not eat when you’re expecting. This well-meaning advice from friends and family is often a result of old wives’ tales that they hear. It may be confusing and you may wonder what’s okay to eat. Here are some common food myths and facts that all pregnant women must know:
- Myth: Don’t eat fish during Pregnancy
Fact: Not all kinds of fish are bad for you during pregnancy. Fish provides high-quality protein, is low in fat and contains omega-3 fatty acids and other essential nutrients. Omega-3 fatty acids aid in your baby’s brain and eye development. However, certain fish that contain high levels of mercury may be harmful to your baby. You could eat sardines, salmon, canned tuna etc. during pregnancy as these are low in mercury.
- Myth: Saffron will make baby’s complexion fair
Fact: This is a common belief in many parts of our country. A lot of families think that if a pregnant woman has saffron with milk, her baby will have a fair complexion. However, the truth is that no food can influence the baby’s complexion, as skin color is entirely dependent on the genes of the parents.
- Myth: Papaya or Pineapple will cause miscarriage
Fact: A lot of people believe that these two fruits can cause abortions and miscarriages. This is commonly assumed because both these fruits in their raw form contain certain enzymes which can cause uterine contractions when consumed in large quantities. However, consuming well-ripened papaya or pineapple does not cause any problem. It is important to take these in moderation.
- Myth: Cold and Sour foods cause Flu
Fact: There is an old belief that eating citrus fruits, juices, limes, lemons, curd, and buttermilk could lead to cold and cough, and affect the baby too. This is completely untrue. The fact is that these foods are loaded with nutritional benefits for both mother and the baby. Hence, these myths are completely wrong and pregnant women should consume these in moderation. If there is any doubt, it is better to ask your gynecologist before eating.
- Myth: Full-cream milk is more nutritious than low-fat milk
Fact: Both low-fat and skim milk contain approximately the same amount of important nutrients, i.e. calcium, phosphorous and protein, as full cream milk. However, full cream milk is high on calories and fat, especially saturated fat, which isn’t particularly healthy during pregnancy. Hence, it is better to take low-fat milk during pregnancy to avoid excessive weight gain.
These are some of the most common myths around food that pregnant women often get to hear. If you have any other doubts regarding food and nutrition, our doctors at KIMS Cuddles will be happy to clear them for you. Visit us today.
*Information shared here is for general purpose Please take doctors’ advice before taking any decision.
