Consuming Spicy Foods During Pregnancy
So far, of course, there are many restrictions that are often imposed on pregnant women, one of which is spicy food. Many people think that spicy food can cause miscarriage and is even believed to cause bald babies. Then, is that true? Let’s look at the explanation below!
Spicy food is closely related to food that contains chilies. Spicy food can give a unique sensation, namely a hot or burning sensation in the mouth and tongue. Even though it sounds uncomfortable, many people like this sensation, including women who may now be pregnant. Some even say that the spicy taste can increase their appetite.
Spicy Foods Can Be Consumed by Pregnant Women
When pregnant, pregnant women are required to be more selective in choosing food and drinks. This is because everything a pregnant woman consumes can affect the growth and development of the fetus in the womb. However, spicy food is not included in the foods that pregnant women need to avoid. So, if before pregnancy the mother really liked to eat spicy and spicy foods, for example those containing a lot of chili, pepper or ginger, even during pregnancy the pregnant mother does not need to avoid these foods.
Consuming spicy food during pregnancy is actually fine and will not be harmful to the fetus. So, the opinion that spicy food can cause miscarriage and cause baldness in babies is just a myth that is not supported by research or clinical evidence. Even so, the side effects of spicy food that can occur in most people in the form of heartburn, nausea, bloating, diarrhea and increased stomach acid can of course also occur in pregnant women, with even more severe symptoms. In the first trimester, spicy food may also make morning sickness worse if pregnant women experience it. Apart from side effects, spicy food also has good benefits, namely fighting colds and coughs and fighting cancer cells.
After knowing the information above, now pregnant women don’t need to hesitate to eat spicy food. However, it would be better if pregnant women still limit the level of spiciness and portions. Apart from that, don’t forget to eat balanced nutritious food and maintain food hygiene. If pregnant women want to make their own spicy food, make sure to wash your hands first before preparing it. Apart from that, it is also important to ensure that the materials used are clean and of good quality. Meanwhile, when consuming packaged spicy foods, such as bottled sauce or chili sauce, make sure that the product the pregnant woman is going to consume has not expired so that it is safe for consumption.
So in conclusion, consuming spicy food during pregnancy is safe and not dangerous. Even so, mothers are advised to limit their portions every time they eat spicy food. Mothers can also drink a glass of milk after eating spicy food to minimize the risk of heartburn. For pregnant women who are not used to eating spicy food, it is best to consume it slowly when craving this food. Try to build your tolerance for spicy tastes gradually rather than immediately consuming super spicy foods. Also make sure the mother stays well hydrated by drinking lots of fluids. If a pregnant woman experiences complaints that are very disturbing or make the pregnant woman uncomfortable after consuming spicy food, you should consult a doctor or midwife to get the right treatment.
