Can I Eat Thai Curry When Pregnant?

Can I Eat Thai Curry When Pregnant? – From red and green to yellow and Panang, curry is a popular Thai dish. As long as it is served hot, all varieties of curry are safe to consume during your pregnancy — even if you love the very spicy versions! However, spicy food, including Thai curries, may cause uncomfortable side effects, including heartburn (source: Indian Journal of Gastroenterology ).

This effect is more likely in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Otherwise, the spice level of your Thai food is completely up to your personal preference! Additionally, Thai curry is usually high in sugar and saturated fat as it contains coconut milk, Therefore, it is best to consume Thai curries in moderation.

Read more about spicy food in pregnancy here.

Can you eat coconut curry when pregnant?

Benefits of Coconut During Pregnancy There are so many myths surrounding foods during pregnancy. To help, here is some science about coconut & how it qualifies to be a pregnancy superfood! Coconut Water – the first thing that you notice is the water. Is it safe for you? Does it benefit you? Actually, coconut water is hydrating as it contains sodium, potassium, magnesium, all important minerals which you may lose as you battle with your morning sickness! It also helps in re-hydration and prevents nausea.

1. Raw Coconut – Eating coconut helps you with your needs of water & fiber.
2. Coconut contains healthy fats, which are needed during pregnancy.
3. Coconut also contains lauric acid which helps in milk production and is super helpful during lactation! You can choose to have coconut shredded, roasted, or even added to your desserts or meals.

It prevents the feeling of fatigue, gives you energy, increases immunity, improves circulation, and also prevents dehydration. Coconut Milk – milk present in coconut is rich in iron, which can help prevent anemia. It also contains good fats which help in the growth of baby.

The coconut milk also contains lauric acid which helps in milk production and helps in lactation when taken during pregnancy! However, if you have gestational diabetes you should be careful to moderate your intake according to your doctor’s guidance & your glucose levels. But what’s the difference between coconut milk & coconut water? Coconut milk comes from the flesh of the coconut and is rich in calories.

Coconut water on the other hand is a thin liquid that is high in potassium and often used as a source of fluid to quench hydration. It’s amazing how the most common foods prove to be so nutritious during pregnancy – along with being so refreshing and flexible! (Doesn’t coconut fit almost anywhere?) : Benefits of Coconut During Pregnancy

Can you eat takeaway curry when pregnant?

Eating Indian Food (Or Indian Takeaway) When Pregnant – I’m a big fan of Indian food and eat it all the time. One thing about it comes up time and time again, and that’s whether or not pregnant women should eat spicy food, as most Indian cuisine can be. There are no dishes that are ‘unsafe’ on their own, but you can follow some guidelines to make healthier choices when you eat Indian:

Stick to tomato and vegetable-based sauces (jalfrezi is a good one as it has tomato, peppers, and onions). The same goes for dishes containing lentils (dal), spinach (saag), or cauliflower (gobi). In fact, a lot of authentic Indian cuisine is vegetarian, so it’s a great way to eat more veg. If there’s a lot of ghee (the oil you see sometimes on top of takeaway curries) then try to drain it off before eating it. If you’ve been prone to heartburn during your pregnancy then this one good reason to choose milder, rather than spicy dishes, However, try to avoid ‘creamy’ curries such as korma or butter chicken, as these are high in fat and calories and will also exacerbate heartburn. Bear in mind many Indian dishes use a lot of yogurt or cream, so make sure these are pasteurized. If you’re having a starter or snack, healthier options include lean tandoori meat like chicken or prawns (which are also more filling), rather than deep-fried items like samosas or onion bhajis. Chutneys (like mango chutney), pickles and sauces are usually safe for pregnant women to eat, as restaurants often serve commercially-made versions, which are pasteurized. If having a takeaway and want to be absolutely sure, heat it up for a few seconds in the microwave until steaming. If you’re helping yourself to chutney or pickle from a jar at home, then this should be safe cold if stored correctly. The best side options are plain pilau rice or a single roti or chapati. Naan bread has more calories, so if you’re going to eat it, have it plain or with garlic, Peshwari or other filled naans are often higher in fat, calories and sugar. Indian sweets and desserts, although tasty, are very sweet and high in sugar. They’re probably best avoided, or at the very least, shared or halved. If you have diabetes, check first with your health professional.

Can pregnant eat Thai basil?

Basil – Dmytro Mykhailov/ Shutterstock Basil is a pregnancy superfood. This fresh herb is a good source of vitamin E, riboflavin, and niacin; plus, it’s an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B6, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, copper, and manganese.

Why is Chinese food avoided during pregnancy?

A Complete Chinese Food Guide – Image: Shutterstock The NSW Food Authority is a statutory government organization that helps ensure the food is safe and correctly labeled. The organization has listed a few foods as a complete no-no in pregnant woman’s diet, They have also classified some foods to be had with caution while also giving a clear green signal to a horde of others.

• One of the major reasons to blacklist these foods is due to a higher chance of containing a lethal bacteria called listeria or salmonella.
• Below is a table that lists a few Chinese ingredients which according to the NSW safety precautions is better to avoid, have precautions and is okay to have in pregnancy.

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Due to the myriad cravings for various food choices, while pregnant, it is common that you may also feel like trying Chinese food during pregnancy, Ideally, it is best to avoid Chinese due to the high salt, spice, and sugar content, along with ingredients such as Ajinomoto or monosodium glutamate in these foods. The following two tabs change content below.

Reviewer Author

Ria is a techie-turned-writer and writes articles on health, with special emphasis on nutrition. She did her B.Tech from West Bengal University of Technology and was previously associated with IBM as SAP ABAP technical consultant. She moved into freelance content writing in 2013 and worked for various websites including MomJunction, Brainpulse Technologies, and Emarketz India. Shivani Sikri is the chief nutritionist and co-founder of Nutri4Verve. After completing her Masters, Shivani Sikri did a postgraduate in nutrition and health education, a postgraduate diploma in public health and nutrition (PGDPHN), and a postgraduate diploma in nutrition and clinical dietetics.

What are 3 things to avoid while pregnant?

– When you’re pregnant, it’s essential to avoid foods and beverages that may put you and your baby at risk. Although most foods and beverages are perfectly safe to enjoy, some, like raw fish, unpasteurized dairy, alcohol, and high mercury fish, should be avoided.

Avoid high-mercury fish including shark, swordfish, tuna, and marlin.Raw fish and shellfish can be contaminated with bacteria and parasites. Some of these can cause adverse health effects and harm both you and baby.Raw or undercooked meat may contain harmful bacteria. As a general rule, meat should be cooked all the way through.Raw eggs may be contaminated with Salmonella, and may put you and your baby at risk. Be sure to thoroughly cook eggs before eating.Organ meat is a great source of iron, vitamin B12, vitamin A, and copper. To prevent consuming too much vitamin A limit your intake of organ meat to a few ounces once a week.Limit caffeine intake to under 200 mg per day, which is about 2 to 3 cups of coffee. High caffeine intake during pregnancy may limit baby’s growth and cause low birth weight.Raw sprouts may be contaminated with bacteria. Only eat them thoroughly cooked.Fruits and vegetables may be contaminated with harmful bacteria, including Toxoplasma, It’s important to thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables with plenty of clean water.Don’t consume unpasteurized milk, cheese, or fruit juice, as these foods increase the risk of bacterial infections.Avoid all alcohol. Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, and fetal alcohol syndrome.Eating processed foods during pregnancy can increase your risk of excess weight gain, gestational diabetes, and complications. This can have long-term health implications for you and your child.

What should I eat daily while pregnant?

Follow a healthy eating pattern. – Eating healthy means following a healthy eating pattern that includes a variety of nutritious foods and drinks.

Eat a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat dairy products, and protein foods. Choose foods and drinks with less added sugars, saturated fats, and sodium (salt). Limit refined grains and starches, which are in foods like cookies, white bread, and some snack foods. If you are feeling sick, try eating a piece of whole-grain toast or whole-grain crackers.

Learn more about eating healthy,

Can you eat coconut milk when pregnant?

Of course coconut is yummy— macaroons, Pina Coladas, delicious cream pies, oh my! But did you know that coconut oil and coconut milk are also terrific for pregnant women (and not just to fill their sweets cravings)? Cue an image of yourself lying on an exotic beach somewhere with a fresh coconut in hand.

According to the Western A Price Foundation, a nutrition research charity, pregnant women should consume two tablespoons of unprocessed coconut oil per day, either in a smoothie or in place of other oils or butters. Rich in anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, coconut oil can help prevent colds, flu and other viruses—which is especially helpful when you don’t want to be taking over-the-counter remedies—and strengthens the immune system of both the pregnant mom and unborn baby.

Coconut oil also helps relieve morning sickness, heartburn and constipation (three icky side effects of pregnancy). Other women swear the super-moisturizing oil even prevents stretch marks when it’s rubbed on the belly on a regular basis. And for those of you planning to breast feed, coconut oil is high in lauric acid, which is supposed to stimulate milk production during pregnancy and after birth.

Coconut oil isn’t the only part of the coconut that can help with pregnancy, either. Coconut water has lots of benefits as well. Coconut water is fat-free and one of the richest sources of electrolytes (think: natural sports drink that’s going to keep you well-hydrated). It is high in potassium, magnesium and protein and is a good source of dietary fiber, calcium and Vitamin C.

It also helps with circulation, which is especially important when you’re pregnant because your blood volume increases by 50 percent. Poor circulation leads to foot and leg pain for mom, and in extreme cases can lead to lack of oxygen to the baby. Another persistent problem many pregnant women suffer from is urinary tract infections,

• Since coconut water is a natural diuretic, it flushes you out faster and can help to prevent infections.
• It sounds like a pregnant woman’s miracle to me! I heard about the morning sickness benefits of coconut water when I was pregnant, but I had no idea how good coconut oil would have been for me as well.

As with all things when you’re pregnant, though, consult your doctor before jumping into a high coconut oil or coconut water diet because it’s still possible to overdue a good thing. TELL US: Have you incorporated coconut oil and coconut milk into your pregnancy diet? Have you felt any positive changes? Image of woman with coconut courtesy of Shutterstock.

Can I eat mozzarella pregnant?

Dairy foods – You’re safe to eat some milk and dairy foods, including:

All hard cheeses, such as cheddar, Parmesan or Gruyere Pasteurised semi-hard and soft cheeses, such as cottage cheese, mozzarella, feta, paneer, ricotta, halloumi, cream cheese, cheese spreads, or goat’s cheese without a white coating on the outside (rind) Any cheese that has been thoroughly cooked until steaming hot Pasteurised milk and yoghurt

Pasteurised cream and ice cream are safe, but are not considered ‘dairy’ by The Eatwell Guide and have high sugar and fat content.

What herbs are not allowed during pregnancy?

Herbs that are not safe during pregnancy – Some herbs are definitely unsafe for pregnancy because they might cause premature labor or other problems. Herbs to avoid during pregnancy include:

Uterine stimulants like aloe, barberry, black cohosh, blue cohosh, dong quai, feverfew, goldenseal, juniper, wild yam and motherwort Herbs that might potentially harm your baby, such as autumn crocus, mugwort but not for ingestion), pokeroot and sassafras Herbs that have other toxic effects, such as comfrey and mistletoe

Again, always consult with your health care provider before taking any herbal remedy and check whether it’s safe for you and your baby.

What to Expect When You’re Expecting, 5th edition, Heidi Murkoff.WhatToExpect.com, November 2019.WhatToExpect.com,, April 2020.WhatToExpect.com,, June 2020.WhatToExpect.com,, April 2021.Food & Drug Administration,, May 2019.National Institutes of Health, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health,, April 2021.National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute,,National Institutes of Health, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health,, April 2021. National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine,, July 2015.

Was this article helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Find advice, support and good company (and some stuff just for fun). The educational health content on What To Expect is to be up-to-date and in line with the latest evidence-based medical information and accepted health guidelines, including the medically reviewed What to Expect books by Heidi Murkoff.

Can babies taste spicy food in the womb?

Can my baby taste before she’s born? A: By the time you’re 13 to 15 weeks pregnant, your baby’s taste buds have developed, and she can start sampling different flavors from your diet. The amniotic fluid she swallows in utero can taste strongly of spices like curry or garlic or other pungent meals.

Your baby’s taste buds predispose her to liking sweet tastes, though (it’s nature’s way of helping babies like breast milk), and studies show that babies swallow more amniotic fluid when it tastes sweet than when it is sour or bitter. During the last trimester, your baby swallows up to a liter a day of amniotic fluid.

This helps prepare her for breastfeeding, since breast milk also contains flavors from Mom’s diet. At birth, babies have a strong sense of taste and may show definite taste preferences. Even preemies born as early as 33 weeks suck harder on a sweetened nipple than on a plain rubber one.

Is it okay to eat garlic while pregnant?

– While garlic is generally considered safe during pregnancy, there’s limited evidence on the topic. Enjoying garlic in amounts typically found in food is likely safe. Nevertheless, consuming this flavorful vegetable may be associated with GERD or IBS symptoms in some people.

1. Currently, there’s no official guideline for the amount of garlic that’s safe to consume per day — both for the public and those who are pregnant.
2. Further, there isn’t much research regarding the use of garlic supplements during pregnancy.
3. Since a safe daily dosage has yet to be determined, your best bet is to keep your doctor in the know about any changes to your eating plan or before using a garlic supplement.

Summary There are no official guidelines on how much garlic is too much, so eating garlic in typical amounts as flavoring is likely safe during pregnancy. Still, it’s best to consult a doctor before taking garlic supplements.

Why is my belly so big at 6 weeks pregnant?

6 Weeks Pregnant | Symptoms and Signs – Huggies Do a pregnancy test if you think you could be pregnant, but still aren t sure. Pregnancy tests are available from supermarkets and pharmacies for around $10.00. The store bought ones are just as sensitive as the tests used in doctor’s surgeries.

1. Some couples take a video or photo to capture the moment when they do the test.
2. This becomes a nice little keepsake, especially if they want a positive result and they get one at 6 weeks pregnant.
3. Lots of women develop symptoms, even at this early stage of pregnancy.
4. Although a 6 week embryo is very tiny, there are lots of hormonal changes going on in your body to support its rapid growth.

Don t be surprised if you develop a bit of a 6 weeks pregnant belly. Although your 6 week embryo is still well down in your pelvis, some women, especially those who’ve been pregnant before, seem to show much earlier. General abdominal distention is usually the cause.

Increased sensitivity to smells, tiredness and feeling low on energy are all common 6 weeks pregnant symptoms. In fact, nausea is the gastrointestinal pregnancy symptom and occurs in 80 85% of all pregnancies during the first trimester. And around 52% of women experience vomiting during their first trimester of pregnancy.

Be patient as your body adjusts to pregnancy. As strange as it seems, there are good reasons for feeling like you do. At 6 weeks pregnant, many women describe feelings of mixed with starvation. This is a strange combination, making it hard to decide if you ll want to eat or not.

• Some women start craving particular foods now, even for foods they don t usually like.
• Common cravings are for fish and seafood, fruit and even ice to munch on.
• Changes to your breasts and nipples will be one of the more noticeable symptoms at 6 weeks pregnant.
• They ll be more sensitive and your breasts could develop more obvious veins.

Your nipples may be getting larger and darker, and even at 6 weeks pregnant, you may need to buy new bras for a correct fit. Vaginal discharge is another pregnancy symptom. Check with your GP or maternity care provider if it’s itchy or has an odd smell.

1. Be prepared to give up smoking and drinking alcohol from now on.
2. A 6 week embryo is forming vital organs for life, any illicit substances can affect healthy formation of organs.
3. You making positive lifestyle changes will have a direct effect at 6 weeks pregnant.
4. Though you may be bursting to share your pregnancy news, you may also feel a little hesitant in case you,

You and your partner should discuss when will be the right time to tell your friends and family. A 6 week embryo can be measured by, It’s standard practice to measure from their crown (head) to their rump (bottom). The average size at 6 weeks of development is 5-6 mm.

1. The embryo’s head is still very large in relation to its body however, little folds are already forming what will become their face and jaw.
2. On either side of their body, small bud like lumps will eventually become their arms and legs.
3. At 6 weeks of pregnancy, the embryo has developed small cavities on either side of their head which will become their ear canals.

Even the embryo’s facial features are forming, with their eyes and nose beginning to take shape. None of this will be obvious from your 6 weeks pregnant belly though, all of this activity is going on deep within your bony pelvis. The only way to get a close up view at this early stage of pregnancy is by,

Speak with your GP to see if this is recommended for you. Your 6 week embryo will look like a little tadpole. All head, little body and small buds where their legs will be. They don t look like this for long, every day in week 6 big changes are happening. Even when you’re sleeping. Important internal organs are forming in that little tadpole.

Although it’s very small, there is space being made for its liver, kidneys and even its lungs. No wonder you’re feeling tired at 6 weeks pregnant, much of your energy is going into growing your baby. Carry lots of snacks with you when you go out. Dry salted crackers, sweet biscuits and even plain water can be helpful for coping with,

• Make sure you’re taking the recommended dose of supplements.
• Speak with your GP and/or pharmacist about the correct dose for you.
• Caffeine may increase the risk of miscarriage or having a baby with a low birth weight.
• Check to see what is a safe amount of total caffeine.
• Don’t forget, caffeine exists in coffee, black tea, chocolate, energy and cola drinks).

Don t forget to keep a plastic container (with a lid) handy for those times when overwhelms you. Try not to feel embarrassed if you’re around other people. Most of us have been in this situation, it’s part and parcel of being 6 weeks pregnant. Avoid any toxins, chemicals, alcohol, drugs, X-rays and generally risky behaviours when 6 weeks pregnant.

What does a 6 week pregnant belly look like?

What does a pregnant belly feel like? – So how does your stomach feel in early pregnancy? Your 6-weeks-pregnant bump isn’t much of a bump yet, so you’re the only one who will notice any differences. That said, since you’re probably starting to feel some cramping and bloating, your belly might feel a little bigger than normal.

• If pants feel tight or uncomfortable, now’s the time to integrate some stretchier waistbands to give that tummy room.
• Whether that tummy expansion currently comes from your growing baby or just gas doesn’t really matter as long as you’re as comfy as possible.
• Whether it’s due to concern for the well-being of your baby, struggles around your changing identity or kicked up by hormonal acrobatics, anxiety in the earliest weeks of the pregnancy is really common and often manifests physically for mamas.

This is one of those times where really trying to connect with your body through mindfulness and meditation can be very powerful in managing your anxiety and getting you through those first few weeks!” -, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist in Frisco, Texas.

Can u start showing at 4 weeks?

How Big Is a Pregnant Belly at 4 Weeks? – Everyone and every pregnancy is unique, but it’s safe to say that you probably won’t see any difference in your pregnant belly’s size at 4 weeks. Remember, your little one is only the size of a poppy seed! Still, slight bloating around your abdomen may accompany your pregnancy at four weeks, so you might notice what appears to be a small belly.

Is it safe to eat takeaways while pregnant?

We all like to treat ourselves when eating out or getting a takeaway, but it is possible to choose healthier options for you and your baby. These include choosing foods from the menu that are lower in sugar, fat and salt. Getting a takeaway or eating out is great for a treat and you can enjoy this as part of a healthy balanced diet.

1. If you are going out or ordering in once in a while, there is no harm in enjoying your favourite dishes.
2. You can order whatever you fancy to treat yourself and still focus the rest of your time on eating a balanced diet.
3. If you are doing this more often, it can be useful to think about dishes on the menu that are healthier choices.

Some menu items are probably higher in sugar, fat and salt than you think. Many menus now include nutrition advice for the dishes on offer which can help you stay informed. If you have some occasions planned, it can help to look at the menu in advance.

What takeout is safe when pregnant?

It can be tricky to navigate a restaurant menu when you’re pregnant. You may be ravenous – or nauseated. You have to watch out for the foods and beverages to avoid during pregnancy, It’s easy to overdo it on calories, carbs, salt, and saturated fat – and it can be harder to get the nutrients you need during pregnancy,

But with a little planning, dining out can be the treat it’s meant to be. You’ll find lots of good options for expecting moms at Mexican restaurants, but plenty of nutritional minefields too. Best bets: Tacos and burritos with protein-packed beans and grilled veggies are a great choice. Better yet, ask for a taco salad or burrito bowl with plenty of greens, salsa, corn, and beans to pack a nutritional punch.

Pick black or pinto beans over refried, which may be cooked with unhealthy fats. Go for avocado (it provides high-quality, healthy fats) and salsa (pico de gallo especially, which is just chopped fresh vegetables). You may also enjoy caldos – hearty, broth-based soups with chicken, fish, or beef.

• Cautions: It’s easy to overdo it when having Mexican – so try to eat mindfully while still enjoying your food.
• If your meal comes with cheese or sour cream, ask for it on the side so you can control how much you’re eating.
• Rather than immediately munching on the chips with salsa, use the chips as scoops for your more nutritious food.

Chinese restaurants offer a wealth of pregnancy-friendly choices if you’re wise about ordering. For a healthier meal, ask for steamed or sautéed protein and veggies instead of deep-fried dishes. Best bets: Start off with steamed vegetable dumplings or wonton soup.

• For your main meal, make at least half of your plate vegetables, a quarter protein, and a quarter rice.
• Pick entrees with generous quantities of vegetables, like chicken and broccoli, beef with snow peas, or bok choy with tofu.
• Ask for low-sodium options to avoid getting too much salt,
• Cautions: Skip egg drop soup, as the egg may not be fully cooked.

Lo Mein is high in sodium and fat, and crowd-pleaser General Tso’s chicken is deep-fried. Also steer clear of orange chicken or any dish that’s topped with a thick, sweet sauce, which means loads of sugar. Some expecting moms avoid Japanese places solely because of one off-limits item: sushi made with raw fish,

1. But with all sorts of light and delicious options, Japanese can be one of the healthiest and most pregnancy-friendly cuisines.
2. Best bets: Sushi rolls made with cooked seafood, like eel, or veggies like avocado or cucumber.
3. California rolls made with imitation crab (it’s actually cooked fish, often pollack) are safe.

Tamago (egg omelet on rice) or spinach gomae (cooked towers of the leafy green) are great choices. Bento boxes with teriyaki chicken or beef, rice, veggies, and miso soup are good options, too. Ask for low-sodium soy sauce – you won’t be able to taste the difference.

• Cautions: Avoid sashimi (raw fish on rice), poke (raw tuna cubes), and sushi rolls featuring raw fish.
• Although tempura is safe and tasty, go easy: The caloric batter coating negates the healthy vegetables within.
• Italian is a go-to comfort food for many pregnant women – and it can be delicious and healthy if you’re choosy.

Get a mixed green salad to start, and order a pasta dish that features veggies. Best bets: Pasta with marinara sauce, meat sauce, or seafood. (Just make sure mussels, oysters, and clams have been cooked until their shells open.) Ravioli are often filled with pureed veggies, making them a good choice.

A wood-fired pizza is great too, as long as it’s not loaded with tons of cheese. Otherwise, look for dishes that feature good protein and deep-pigmented vegetables, like sautéed spinach. Cautions: Alfredo sauce (served with fettuccini and other pasta dishes) is made with cream, butter, and cheese and so adds a lot of calories.

If you’re craving it, opt for a small portion and add a soup and salad for a healthier and more satisfying meal. Also – avoid uncooked deli meats like prosciutto (dry-cured Italian ham) as they can harbor Listeria, If you order Caesar salad, ask whether the dressing is made with raw eggs,

1. If the answer is yes, take a pass.
2. Heat, flavor, and powerful aromatics make Thai food crave-worthy.
3. And you’ll find many healthy items to choose from.
4. Best bets: Choose dishes with plenty of vegetables and quality protein – like stir-fries with veggies and tofu, chicken, or beef.
5. Start with fresh veggie spring rolls wrapped in rice paper or tom yum goong (hot and sour soup).

Punch up the health benefits of pad Thai by ordering extra protein (chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu), and ask your server to leave off the raw bean sprouts, which can harbor Listeria, Cautions: Avoid papaya salad. When unripe, the fruit contains a substance that may trigger uterine contractions.

• Also, go easy on dishes made with coconut milk, like curries and tom ka gai soup.
• Coconut milk is rich in nutrients but high in saturated fat and calories.) Some Thai dishes are drenched in sweet sauce, so ask for less sauce or have it on the side.
• If you’re having Thai iced tea with sweetened condensed milk, be aware that it’s more of a dessert than a beverage.

And make sure you don’t blow your daily caffeine budget, since it’s made with strongly brewed black tea. There’s a reason the Mediterranean diet is held up as the gold standard for nutrition. It’s focused on whole grains, vegetables, legumes, and healthy fats – all good for expecting moms and growing babies.

Best bets: Hummus and lentils are packed with fiber and protein (hummus gets extra calcium from tahini, too). Bulgur, the main ingredient in tabouli, is a great way to get your whole grains, plus it’s full of parsley, which is rich in lutein. Grilled chicken or lamb kabobs, served with a side salad, are another good choice.

Cautions: Gyro sandwiches taste great, but the higher-fat meat and tzatziki sauce can lead to caloric overload. Consider a half portion or swap the gyro for souvlaki, which is made of grilled or broiled chunks of leaner cuts of meat and vegetables. Don’t overdo it on foods wrapped in phyllo dough (like baklava and spanakopita) – these are high in less-healthy fat.

American cuisine ranges far and wide. While diner classics like cheeseburgers, fries, and milkshakes aren’t nutritional winners for expecting moms, “new American” staples like hearty salads are a win. Best bets: Sandwiches like grilled chicken are a good bet. Some American restaurants offer nutrient-dense salads full of greens, nuts or seeds, avocado, and fruit – top one with a protein like salmon, chicken, or steak.

Hamburgers provide iron you need during pregnancy, but keep yours to a quarter pound of meat. Cautions: Skip the fried chicken, French fries, and fried mozzarella sticks. You don’t need the saturated fat. Hot dogs and bacon are made with nitrates, so it’s best to limit them.

Club sandwiches with cold deli meats can harbor Listeria, And sundaes and shakes are full of calories and sugar, so make them an occasional treat. You may think of creamy sauces and lots of oil, but this Southeast Asian cuisine also boasts plenty of good options for health-conscious pregnant women. Best bets: Tandoori dishes typically feature chicken or other meat marinated in yogurt and spices, then baked.

Grilled chicken tikka is another healthy choice. Lentil-based dal is high in fiber and a great source of iron and folic acid. Aloo gobi is both pretty and good for you. Its yellow color comes from turmeric and other antioxidant spices. Chana masala is a good vegetarian option.

Chickpeas – its main ingredient – are a good source of protein. Mango lassis are delicious and packed with vitamins C and A. Ask for one with less sugar – you can always add to taste. Cautions: Steer clear of heavy, rich curries and fried foods. For example, the popular chicken tikka masala is loaded with cream, butter, and calories.

And while pakoras and samosas taste great, their golden-brown color comes courtesy of a deep fryer. Though they tend to be shrines to overindulgence, steakhouses serve up some great dishes for expecting moms. Don’t assume steak is off your pregnancy menu: Red meat is one of the best sources of iron, a crucial nutrient for moms-to-be.

1. Best bets: Petite filet mignon delivers a healthy dose of iron without the without the hefty saturated fats of a rib eye.
2. Not a carnivore? Fish is often offered at steakhouses, and salmon, with its heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, is a great choice.
3. Cautions: Avoid eating fish with high levels of mercury, like swordfish.

Check that your Caesar salad isn’t made with raw egg. And be aware of rich sauces and extra pats of butter added to steak, potatoes, and vegetables. Ask to have these served on the side so you can control how much you’re having. The French know flavor – and how to make vegetables, fish, chicken, and beef delicious.

• But French cuisine is also famous for its rich sauces and creamy custards, which can be high in unhealthy fats and added sugar.
• Best bets: Bordelaise and other wine-based sauces (the alcohol cooks off) are lighter than cream-enriched sauces.
• Ratatouille is a win, with its tasty combination of tomatoes, eggplant, and zucchini.

An elegant poached pear is a good pick for dessert. Cautions: Hollandaise, béchamel, and béarnaise sauces, creamy au gratin potato casseroles, and pommes frites (just elegant French fries) are high in calories and fat and low in nutritional payoff. Make sure soft cheeses like Brie are pasteurized, and skip pâté, which can harbor Listeria,

• The most important meal of the day! Set yourself up right with a nutritious combination of protein, complex carbs, and nourishing fat.
• Best bets: Scrambled eggs are nice, but an omelet with plenty of vegetables is even better.
• Ask for fresh berries, sliced avocado, and whole-grain toast on the side.
• Oatmeal topped with chopped nuts and fruit provides complex carbs and fiber.

(Go with walnuts for healthy fat, protein, antioxidants, and omega-3s.) If you’re craving pancakes, get one made from buckwheat or whole-wheat flour and add berries on top. Then add nutrient-packed side dishes like two fried eggs, avocado slices, and chicken sausage.

• Coffee is fine, but stick to one cup to avoid excessive caffeine,
• Cautions: Skip breakfast offerings that resemble dessert, like pancakes and French toast slathered with sugary sauces, whipped cream, and fruit toppings.
• They pack in the sugar and calories without much nutritional benefit – and so do pastries and muffins.

Also, go easy on bacon and pork sausage, which often contains nitrates and a lot of sodium.

What is the best takeaway food when pregnant?

Fast food usually isn’t the best choice for expecting moms, since it’s often packed with excessive amounts of salt, added sugar, and unhealthy fats. But fast food during pregnancy doesn’t have to be a nutritional disaster. Here’s what to order – and what to avoid – at popular fast-food chains when you’re pregnant.

A note on fat: During pregnancy you need more fat, but aim to get monounsaturated “healthy” fats from sources like olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds, and fish, Saturated fats come primarily from animal sources like red meat, butter, cheese, and ice cream and are best consumed in moderation and from quality sources, if possible.

Mickey D’s isn’t exactly known for health food, and recently the company removed salads, bagels, and yogurt parfaits from the menu. For pregnant women looking for a nutritious meal, the pickings are pretty slim. Best bets: Your healthiest lunch or dinner choice is the Deluxe Crispy Chicken Sandwich.

At 530 calories, it includes a crispy chicken fillet, Roma tomato, shredded lettuce, mayonnaise, and a potato roll. To limit excess calories, you can request the mayo on the side and consider removing one of the buns and eating the sandwich open-faced. Round out the meal with apple slices and an ice water or unsweetened iced tea.

If you’re stopping for breakfast, consider ordering the Egg McMuffin or Egg Burrito, apple slices, and a decaf latte or Honest Kids Appley Ever After Organic Juice Drink. Avoid: Chicken McNuggets – they’re sky-high in calories, unhealthy fat, and excessive amounts of sodium.

Ten pieces have nearly half the fat you should eat in a day; 20 pieces have nearly 1,000 calories. Other classics aren’t great choices, either: A Quarter Pounder with Cheese has 750 calories and 43 grams (g) of fat, the Big Mac has 29 g of fat, and the shakes and McFlurrys are positively groaning with calories and sugar.

See nutrition information. Chipotle is one of the healthier fast-food options: it’s fresh and tasty, too. But extras like sour cream and cheese, large portions, and those hard-to-resist chips make it easy to go overboard on calories, salt, and fat. Best bets: Chipotle now offers some impressively nutrient-dense options including salads, burrito bowls, and Lifestyle Bowls.

For example, a Paleo Lifestyle Bowl comes with a “supergreens” lettuce blend, grilled chicken, fajita veggies, tomatillo green chili salsa, and guacamole. Add a small portion of black beans for additional fiber and request sour cream and shredded cheese on the side if you want. Consider subbing the chicken for beef if you’re looking for a bump in iron,

If you’re craving chips, request a small bag (or share with a friend) and order a small side of guacamole. Guac is rich in healthy fats, lutein, vitamin E, and fiber – but it’s also high in calories. Avoid: A burrito with a flour tortilla, carnitas, white rice, sour cream, cheese, guacamole, and fresh tomato salsa is full of flavor and nutrients – but packs 1,110 calories (the tortilla alone has 320 calories).

To make it more manageable, save half for tomorrow or order a burrito bowl instead. For your bowl, ask for less rice and get the sour cream, cheese, and guac on the side so you can add a few spoonfuls to your meal. See nutrition information. Pizza can be tricky. It’s easy to consume more calories than you need, primarily from refined carbohydrates and unhealthy fats.

Plus, pizza has a lot of sodium. And Pizza Hut defines a “portion” as one piece of pizza – and who orders a pizza and has just one slice? Best bets: Slices with the Thin ‘N Crispy crust are lower in refined carbohydrates and calories – especially if you go for the Cheese Only or Veggie Lover’s versions.

(Two slices of the Veggie Lover’s Thin ‘N Crispy are 480 calories with 9 g of fat and 10 g of protein.) If you crave Pizza Hut’s original crust, the Veggie Lover’s and Ham & Pineapple are your healthiest options. Avoid: The Stuffed Crust and Meat Lover’s versions. Both are sky-high in calories and unhealthy fats.

A single slice of the Stuffed Crust Meat Lover’s Pizza has 480 calories, 26 g of fat, and an eye-popping 1,380 milligrams (mg) of sodium. See nutrition information. Quickie Mexican can be cheap and tasty, and Taco Bell has added more nutritious options to the menu.

• But it’s still easy to get too much salt, unhealthy fat, and calories on your run for the border.
• Best bets: The Power Menu Bowl has fresh veggies like tomatoes and lettuce, fiber-filled black beans, seasoned rice, nourishing fat from guacamole and cheese, and a nice serving of protein from grilled chicken.

You can customize it by adding toppings like jalapenos and chopped onion, and request extra tomatoes, lettuce, or seasoned rice. Avoid: The Crunchwrap Supreme and the crunchy and soft tacos (Supreme and regular) are full of unhealthy fat and sodium. Two of the Soft Taco Supreme have 20 grams of fat (plus half the daily value for saturated fat) and 43 percent of the daily value for sodium.

See nutrition information. For a place famous for fried chicken sandwiches, Chick-fil-A has some surprisingly decent options for expecting moms. Sadly, those sandwiches – and the well-loved fried chicken nuggets and waffle fries – aren’t nutritional winners. Best bets: Menu items with grilled chicken, which is 100-percent breast meat with no fillers or additives.

The Market Salad with grilled chicken provides a nice balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat and features plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables (like berries, cabbage, red and green apples, and strawberries). If a sandwich is calling your name, opt for the Grilled Chicken Sandwich with 30 grams of protein and 350 calories.

Add a side salad, Kale Crunch side, and/or a fresh fruit cup. Most of the salad dressings are very high in calories, so try using half of the packet. Avoid: Those tempting waffle fries: A large order adds 520 calories and 27 g of non-nourishing fat to your meal (a small isn’t great either, with 310 calories and 16 g of fat).

Also, the fried chicken sandwich and nuggets are full of unhealthy fat and excessive sodium, so skip them if possible. See nutrition information. Subway made a name for itself as a healthy fast-food choice, but it has plenty of not-so-great stuff on the menu.

• Plus, there aren’t a ton of options for pregnant women because of the warning to avoid deli meat unless it’s heated until steaming hot.
• Best bets: The Rotisserie Style Chicken Salad offers a colorful, plant-focused meal with a nice dose of protein from the chicken.
• Consider asking for more veggies (like cucumbers, spinach, green peppers, olives, and red onion) on your salad to ramp up the flavor, nutrients, and fiber content.

If you’re craving a sandwich, consider a 6-inch Oven Roasted Chicken sandwich packed with veggies like banana peppers, black olives, cucumbers, green peppers, jalapenos, red onions, spinach, and tomatoes. Get it with oil and vinegar instead of creamy sauces, and ask for it heated or toasted.

• Avoid: Any sub with deli meat.
• Even if you heat your sandwich, processed meat contains sodium nitrate, which some experts say to avoid or limit when you’re expecting.
• Also, skip tuna sandwiches because cold deli salads aren’t safe to eat during pregnancy,
• See nutrition information.
• Panera is a bakery first and foremost, but skip the sticky buns and scan the menu for healthier choices.

With a variety options to choose from, there are plenty of ways to get the pregnancy nutrients you need. Best bets: The Garden Goddess Cobb salad with chicken offers a nice blend of colors, robust flavors, and healthy fat. With 24 grams of carbohydrate, 29 grams of fat, and 40 grams of protein, a full version of this meal offers a nice balance of macronutrients and will likely leave you feeling satisfied.

Or, consider ordering the You Pick Two and opt for either the Mediterranean bowl with chicken or a strawberry poppyseed salad with chicken, then order a chicken noodle soup or ten vegetable soup as your second option. Go for the apple on the side instead of the chips or French baguette. If breakfast is what you’re looking for, consider the steel cut oats with strawberries and pecans or the breakfast sandwich with avocado, egg white, and spinach.

Optimize your sandwich by asking for the whole egg (not just the white) and adding onion and other veggies to ramp up the flavor, color, and fiber content. Avoid: The treats at the bakery counter. The cupcakes, pastries, cookies, and scones are nutritional disasters (the worst is the vanilla cinnamon roll, with 620 calories, 109 grams of carbohydrate, and 72 grams of sugar).

Also, the smoothies provide 40 to 60 grams of carbohydrates and up to 50 grams of sugar. See nutrition information. Starbucks has some good options, but plenty of minefields too. Watch out for caffeine : Many Starbucks drinks exceed the recommended limit for pregnant women. (That’s 200 mg a day, and a 16-ounce brewed Starbucks coffee can have 260 to 360 mg of caffeine.) Best bets: The Protein Boxes are a nice pregnancy snack, featuring things like a hardboiled egg, cheddar cheese, honey peanut-butter spread, multigrain bread, apples, and grapes.

The peanut butter contributes healthy fats and protein, as does the egg, which also contains choline for brain development. Pair it with a fresh orange or banana. Starbucks also offers several decent energy bar options. For breakfast, a hearty blueberry oatmeal bowl is a nice way to start the morning – consider pairing it with a hard-boiled egg from the protein box.

• As far as drinks, basic is best – try a decaf coffee or tea, or a less-caffeinated option like iced tea or a tall (12-ounce) latte, which has 75 mg of caffeine.
• Avoid: Most of the flavored coffee drinks and Frappuccinos are loaded with calories and sugar.
• The Grande Caramel Frappuccino, for example, has 380 calories, 16 grams of fat, and half the daily value of saturated fat for the day.

But you can make your drink healthier by requesting a smaller serving size, swapping milk for almond or coconut milk, dropping the whipped cream, and asking the barista to go easy on the syrup. Also, pass on the bakery items – they’re filled with added sugar and refined carbohydrates.

Can you reheat chicken curry when pregnant?

Well-cooked chicken and other poultry are safe to eat while you’re pregnant, as long as they’re still hot. But you should avoid cold cooked chicken and processed chicken meat from the deli. Chicken is a good source of protein during pregnancy. About 100g of lean chicken will give you one of your recommended 3.5 daily servings of protein.

But if it’s not thoroughly cooked and eaten while hot, it can be contaminated with harmful bacteria. Raw and undercooked chicken, turkey and other poultry can carry salmonella. These bacteria can cause salmonellosis food poisoning. Symptoms of salmonellosis include nausea, vomiting, tummy cramps, diarrhoea, fever and headache,

In rare cases, the illness may even cause miscarriage, Cooking chicken and other poultry until they reach 71 degrees C in the thickest part kills bacteria, making the meat safe to eat. The juices should run clear when you cut into the thickest part. If you let cooked chicken, turkey or other poultry cool before you eat it, though, it can become contaminated with listeria bacteria.

• The cold chicken used in sandwich bars may also be contaminated with listeria.
• Listeriosis infection is a mild illness for you, but it can be very harmful to your baby.
• It can even cause miscarriage or stillbirth.
• You can store leftover cooked chicken and other poultry in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Re-heating it until it’s piping hot throughout should kill the bacteria, making it safe to eat. If you buy a hot, barbecued or roast chicken, either eat it immediately, or refrigerate it and heat it again just before serving. And steer clear of any stuffing, unless it was cooked separately and is thoroughly hot.

• Processed chicken meat, such as the slices you can buy at the deli counter, can also be contaminated with listeria bacteria.
• So it’s best to avoid it, unless you cook it and eat it while it’s still hot.
• Find out whether it’s safe to eat other meats during pregnancy,
• Megan Rive is a communication, content strategy and project delivery specialist.

She was Babycenter editor for six years.

Indira Usman