During pregnancy, women become very careful about the food they eat. Various foods are avoided by pregnant women, one of which is spicy food, because it is considered risky for pregnancy. Then, can pregnant women eat spicy?
Balanced nutritious food is important to support the growth and development of the fetus. However, during cravings, pregnant women often want to eat spicy food. Then, can pregnant women eat spicy? Here’s more information.
Can Pregnant Women Eat Spicy? Fact Check
Consumption of spicy food during pregnancy is considered harmless for the mother and fetus. In addition, until now, there have been no studies that prove the dangers of spicy food for pregnant women, such as premature birth or miscarriage. However, pregnant women are advised to limit spicy foods so as not to risk pregnancy complications. Excessive consumption of spicy foods during pregnancy may cause the following side effects:
1. Heartburn
In addition to symptoms during pregnancy, a burning sensation in the chest or heartburn it may be a side effect of eating too much spicy food, especially if pregnant women are not used to eating spicy food. The hormone progesterone can also trigger heartburn, because it inhibits the digestive process, so food is not directly digested in the body. This condition generally occurs in every trimester of pregnancy, but often appears in the third trimester of pregnancy, due to the enlarged position of the baby.
2. Stomach ache
Another side effect of eating too much spicy food during pregnancy is an upset stomach. This is because spicy food can release gas which triggers flatulence. If pregnant women have ever had intestinal disorders, avoid eating too much spicy food, because there is a risk of dangerous pregnancy complications. However, it is possible for pregnant women with intestinal disorders to have a healthy pregnancy and childbirth.
3. Morning sickness
Morning sickness is one of the symptoms of young pregnancy. However, this condition can also be a side effect of eating too much spicy food. This is because hormonal changes during pregnancy trigger various complaints, such as vomiting, nausea, and abdominal pain.
In order to avoid the side effects above, pregnant women should consult an obstetrician regarding the safety of spicy food and the safe limits of consuming spicy food according to your condition.
Safe Spicy Eating Tips for Pregnant Women
Can pregnant women eat spicy? If pregnant women do not suffer from certain diseases, spicy food may be consumed within reasonable limits. To prevent side effects, pregnant women can drink milk after eating spicy to reduce stomach acid which triggers nausea. Pregnant women can also consume honey after eating spicy food to prevent ulcers. In addition, pregnant women need to balance it by adopting a healthy diet. A healthy diet is important to meet the nutritional needs of pregnant women and the fetus, so that the health is maintained and the growth and development of the fetus is optimal.
If pregnant women are still unsure about the effects of spicy food, consult an obstetrician to ensure the safety of spicy food, so that the health and development of the fetus is maintained. For pregnant women who have certain medical conditions, you should discuss it with your obstetrician to find out the safe limits for consuming the right spicy food.
