Key Takeaways
- Yes, you can eat Chinese when pregnant, but it’s important to choose the food carefully due to certain ingredients that can be harmful.
- Avoid dishes with shellfish or raw fish as they can contain mercury and bacteria which can lead to food poisoning.
- Hot spices should also be avoided as they can cause heartburn and indigestion.
- MSG is generally safe in moderate amounts, though sodium consumption should still be kept low.
- Pregnancy-safe dishes include steamed fish or chicken and stir-fried vegetables.
Chinese Food and Pregnancy
When it comes to pregnancy, there are a lot of things to consider – from what to eat and drink, to what kind of exercise to do (or avoid). For many women, cravings for certain foods can be hard to resist. But it’s important to be aware that some foods can pose a risk to both mother and baby.
This is especially true for Chinese food, which may contain ingredients that can be harmful to pregnant women. Such ingredients are shellfish and raw fish. So, can you eat Chinese food while pregnant? If you’re pregnant and craving Chinese food, be sure to check the ingredients list carefully. And if you’re not sure whether something is safe to eat, always err on the side of caution and ask your doctor or midwife before indulging.
What Type of Chinese Food to Avoid While Pregnant
Pregnant women are advised to avoid eating Chinese food with shellfish or raw fish for a few reasons. First, shellfish and fish can often be contaminated with mercury, which can be harmful to both the mother and the developing fetus. They can also be sources of bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Therefore, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid consuming any Chinese food during pregnancy if it contains shellfish or raw fish.
Another common ingredient used in Chinese cuisine is hot spices. Hot spices are not recommended during pregnancy. That’s because they can cause heartburn, indigestion, and stomach upsets. They may also increase the risk of preterm labor. If you’re pregnant and in the mood for some Chinese food, it’s a good idea to choose dishes that aren’t too spicy. You could also consider asking the restaurant to make your order less spicy. But no need to worry so much:
What Is MSG?
MSG, a type of salt derived from glutamate, has been an integral part of Chinese cuisine for centuries. But it’s also become controversial due to unfounded claims about its health risks. The good news? There is no evidence supporting these fears and MSG can be enjoyed in moderate amounts without any adverse effects!
In fact, you’ll find the salty flavor enhancer not only in processed foods but dishes at your favorite restaurant too – just remember moderation when enjoying that delicious take-out meal as sodium consumption should still be kept low.
MSG and Pregnancy
There are a lot of myths and misconceptions about MSG out there. One of the most common of course is that it’s unsafe for preggos. However, there is no evidence to support this claim. In fact, MSG has been consumed safely by pregnant women for decades. So if you’re expecting and craving some Chinese food, go ahead and order that takeout!
Pregnancy-Safe Chinese Food
Can you eat Chinese food while pregnant? Yes, but if you want to make sure you’re absolutely safe, opt for pregnancy-safe dishes. When it comes to pregnancy-safe Chinese food, here are a few things you should look at:
First, avoid anything that is raw or undercooked, as this could lead to food poisoning. Secondly, watch out for dishes that are high in salt or hot spices, as these can cause problems like water retention and swelling. Finally, be sure to steer clear of any shellfish. With these guidelines in mind, there are still plenty of delicious and safe options to choose from.
For example, steamed fish or chicken is a great source of protein, while stir-fried vegetables are a healthy way to get your greens. Just be sure to customize your order to suit your own needs and cravings. And remember, if you’re ever unsure about what to order, just ask your server for advice.
Editor’s Note
Let me make it simple for you. If I were you I’d drop the following Chinese delicious foods: crab rangoons (too much cheese and greasy dough); deep fried egg rolls (you don’t need the processed pork, the fat, the carbs, and the sugar); sweet ‘n’ sour take-away chicken (who wants high sugar levels in their preggo time) or any dishes that contain liver (too much processed vitamin A in organ meat).
Stick to a home-made won-ton soup (recipe in link below), chow mein with fresh veggies, steamed brown rice with steamed vegetables, steamed fish, and baked spring rolls (instead of fried), oyster sauce instead of soy sauce.
Can You Eat Chinese Food While Pregnant? Summing Up
Dining on your favorite Chinese dish while pregnant is possible with a few special considerations. When ordering take-out, it’s essential to ensure none of the ingredients include anything that might be potentially risky for both you and baby! And don’t forget portion size – as delicious as they may be, some dishes are high in sodium so keep an eye out! With these precautions in mind though feel free to dig into delectable delights during this precious time without worry.
Read our blog post about eating egg drop soup while pregnant and know your dos and don’ts. Plus get this delicious wonton soup recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chicken Fried Rice Safe During Pregnancy?
Yes, it is absolutely fine under one condition: it doesn’t have too much salt and soy sauce.
Which Fast Food Is Healthy During Pregnancy?
Well, when it comes to fast food and pregnancy, it can be a bit tricky to find options that are both tasty and healthy. However, fear not, as I have the perfect solution for you! What about a burger which features a juicy and flavorful turkey patty, topped with fresh avocado and tomatoes for some healthy fats and vitamins.
To keep things light, the burger can be sandwiched between two whole wheat buns that are loaded with fiber to keep your digestive system happy. And for an extra kick of flavor, add a dollop of mustard to give it some zing. Yummy!
Can I Eat Chinese Food in My First Trimester?
Yes, you can eat Chinese food during your first trimester of pregnancy. However, it is important to make sure that the food is cooked thoroughly and that any sauces or condiments have been made with pasteurized ingredients.
Can I Eat Soy Sauce While Pregnant?
Yes, it is generally safe. However, make sure that the soy sauce is made from pasteurized ingredients and is not expired. And as mentioned before: try to limit the amount of sodium in your diet, so it is best to use soy sauce sparingly.
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