Pregnancy brings along a lot of responsibilities for the mother-to-be. One of them is knowing what to eat and what not to. Here we present a list of Indian foods to avoid during pregnancy to help you categorize your food choices and avoid complications. The food you eat while pregnant affects both you and your baby. Some foods have been known to induce abortion or premature delivery, while others can affect fetal brain development. Even though your near and dear ones may suggest you some meal plans, their contradicting advice can cause significant confusion. So, if you are anxious and feeling clueless about things you should refrain from eating for a healthy pregnancy, continue reading. We help you learn more about food items that a mother-to-be should avoid eating through this post.
5 Indian Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy
Let’s quickly look at Indian foods to avoid in pregnancy and the reasons for avoiding them (1):
1. Raw papaya
Papaya is a healthy food, but you should only eat a ripe one. Raw or green papaya contains a high concentration of latex and can trigger uterine contractions. The unripe papaya latex can induce labor and abortion (2). Vandana Gujadhur, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, says, “Animal studies have shown that those rats that received unripe papaya and semi-ripe papaya produced uterine contractions, while those which received ripe papaya did not. Further human studies will be required to ascertain the ultimate risk of unripe papaya in humans.”
2. Eggplant
It is a veggie that enjoys great popularity across the globe. It contains phytohormones that may have a diuretic effect. Brinjals can help cure premenstrual syndrome [PMS] and amenorrhea (3). However, raw eggplant contains a toxin, solanine, which might cause allergies. Consuming cooked eggplant in moderate quantities is safe. Gujadhur adds, “Including well-cooked eggplant can be nutritious for pregnant and lactating mothers.”
3. Pineapple
It is believed that consuming high amounts of fresh pineapple can induce labor. The enzyme bromelain present is linked to increasing uterine contractions in animal studies. Gujadhur suggests, “If you are concerned about bromelain, then cooking the pineapple destroys this enzyme, and you can safely enjoy them.”
4. Fennel and fenugreek seeds
In many Indian homes, the elders in the family advise a new mother to consume fenugreek seeds and fennel in the form of a laddoo or some other variation. Methi dana or fenugreek seeds and fennel or saunf can stimulate menstruation, correct ahormonal disorder, cleanse the uterus and boost milk production. The two spices contain phytoestrogens, which may induce uterine contractions (4). You can safely use a pinch of the two popular ingredients while cooking. However, avoid large amounts of it during pregnancy.
5. Ajinomoto (Monosodium Glutamate)
Even though it is not an Indian spice, Ajinomoto is used in rustling up street-side Chinese dishes in India. Owing to its extensive use, Ajinomoto has become a common household cooking ingredient. It is the secret ingredient that makes Chinese food so delicious! Chinese cuisine enjoys huge popularity in India. However, excessive consumption of Ajinomoto may adversely affect the development of the fetal brain, based on a study done in mice. Gujadhur says, ”The amount given to the mice was very high, much higher than what you see in one meal.” Hence, you should consume in moderation to be on the safe side and safeguard the growth and development of your precious baby (5).
