Is it safe to eat instant noodles during pregnancy: Let us know about Is it safe to eat instant noodles during pregnancy. One of the biggest perks of being pregnant is getting a license to eat. Pregnant women actually tend to put on weight, so they are encouraged to ‘eat for two’. But eating for two is not the right thing. A pregnant woman needs an additional 350 kcal per day during the second trimester of her pregnancy and an additional 450 kcal per day in her third trimester. Not all foods are safe for your unborn baby.
Many everyday foods that sound delicious can have adverse effects on the health of the developing baby and should be avoided during pregnancy. Not only will you have to give up alcohol and caffeine when you are pregnant, there are other things that you will have to stop eating as well. Noodles, specifically, instant noodles are one of those foods, The ones you’ll have to give up (or eat in limited quantities). Find out why you should avoid noodles during pregnancy.
types of noodles
There are many varieties of noodles, but instant noodles are probably the most popular of them all. Some other popular varieties of noodles are ramen, soba, mung bean, rice stick, hakka and egg noodles.
Instant noodles are promoted as being easy to cook. These come with a packet of spices, which are meant to enhance the flavor of the noodles. Although the noodle cake may be bland and harmless, there are some ingredients present in the spice packet, which can be harmful during pregnancy.
Are Instant Noodles a Healthy Diet to Eat During Pregnancy?
Instant noodles seem like a great option to eat during pregnancy, as they are flavourful, packed with spices, and can be cooked in a jiffy. However, it is not absolutely safe to consume them during pregnancy. First things first, instant noodles do not provide any kind of nutrition and they only satisfy hunger for a short period of time. Another harmful substance present in instant noodles is MSG (Monosodium Glutamate) which we know as Ajinomoto which can harm the baby if consumed in excess. Hence it is best that you avoid eating noodles during pregnancy.
Ingredients present in noodles which can be harmful during pregnancy
Instant noodles contain certain ingredients that can pose a risk to your unborn baby, so you should avoid including them in your diet. Some of these are given below.
- Fine flourMaida is refined flour which has no nutritional value as any nutrients are completely taken out of it during the refining process. It is also hard to digest and stays within the digestive tract for a long time. It is also low in fiber and can cause constipation during pregnancy.
- SaltNoodles contain a lot of salt and can affect your pregnancy if you eat them often. Consuming too much sodium during pregnancy can make you vulnerable to high blood pressure later on.
- preservatives
Instant noodles contain artificial coloring and flavoring compounds, which are intended to prolong the shelf life of the noodles, but may hinder your baby’s growth. - msgMonosodium glutamate is known to be a common ingredient in many foods, especially salty snacks. It enhances the taste of food, so it is used in large quantities in noodles. Pregnant women can digest small amounts of MSG, but excess amounts in the body can pose a risk to an unborn baby. So avoid noodles and other foods containing MSG.
- trans fatFound in large amounts in processed foods, trans fats can increase cholesterol levels during pregnancy. So avoid noodles and processed foods as much as possible during this time.
What is TBHQ? What is its role in instant noodles?
Tertiary Butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) is a toxic chemical used as a preservative present in instant noodles. It is also found in other foods such as snack crackers and frozen foods. It is a petroleum derivative and is used in paints, cosmetics and even pesticides. Especially in the long run, TBHQ is dangerous to the health of the child.
TBHQ side effects
If foods containing TBHQ are consumed in excess during pregnancy, it may cause nausea, fainting, breathlessness and tinnitus. It is removed by the body after a short period of time, but if you consume instant noodles regularly, it can remain in your body for a long time. It can also lead to metabolic syndrome, which can mess with your blood pressure, lead to obesity, and even raise levels of bad cholesterol. TBHQ can cause heart related problems and diabetes.
how to make noodles healthier
If you are craving for instant noodles, you can have it once, but not again and again. Also, whenever you do this, do not forget to make it beneficial for health by adding enough boiled vegetables. Also, if you are adding extra salt, make sure to add less than half the amount mentioned on the packet.
Healthier Alternatives to Noodles During Pregnancy
Some snacks that are considered healthy alternatives to noodles are porridge, sprouts bhel, and even smoothies. You can also make sandwiches with lots of vegetables and occasionally eat sweet potato chips.
what nutritionists have to say
Doctors and nutritionists are against consuming noodles as a staple during pregnancy, as they do not provide any nutrition to you or your baby. However, you can indulge your cravings sometimes.
things to remember
Eating processed foods should be completely avoided during pregnancy, but if you cannot give it up completely, you can have it occasionally. However, make sure you add vegetables to make it healthier.
Instant noodles are processed foods that do not provide any benefit to the pregnant woman or her baby. While pregnant, if you find yourself craving something that is unhealthy, just try to remind yourself that it will not be good for your body. For a few years after you’ve given birth to your baby, you can eat whatever you want and indulge yourself. However, during pregnancy, you must avoid unhealthy foods. Keep in mind the health of yourself and your little one and avoid instant noodles and other unhealthy foods during pregnancy to prevent any complications in the long run. Have a happy and healthy pregnancy!
