Can I eat bacon while pregnant? Does it harm the baby? What will happen if I do? That’s what this blog is all about.
If you’re pregnant, the smell of frying bacon might be the last thing you want to think about. However, there are plenty of things to consider when it comes to eating bacon while pregnant. After all, this is a new phase in your life and you want to make sure that everything you eat is good for your baby. There are certain foods that are not safe for pregnant women because they could lead to problems during the pregnancy or after birth. Eating too much sodium or nitrates can also lead to complications as well as an increase risk of conditions like pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes. So, can you eat bacon while pregnant? Let’s take a look at some pros and cons, so that you can make an informed decision.
Are There Any Benefits to Eating Bacon While Pregnant?
Generally, it is recommended that pregnant women avoid all types of bacon. That being said, there are some benefits to eating bacon while pregnant. Firstly, pregnant women need as many calories as possible to ensure that their bodies are getting the energy they need to grow a baby. Bacon is high in protein and fats which are essential for a growing baby. Therefore, eating a little bacon might not be such a bad idea. Additionally, bacon contains B vitamins which are essential for the health of both you and the baby. B vitamins can help to prevent neural tube defects and can also reduce the risk of preeclampsia. A study conducted by the Journal of the National Cancer Institute has found that pregnant women who have high levels of vitamin B6 are less likely to have a child with colorectal cancer. This is because B6 increases the rate at which cells are shed from the lining of the colon.
Pros of Eating Bacon While Pregnant
– Pregnant women need as many calories as possible to grow a healthy baby. Bacon is high in proteins and fats which are essential for a growing baby. – Bacon contains B vitamins which are important for the health of both you and the baby. B vitamins can help to prevent neural tube defects and can reduce the risk of preeclampsia. – Eating bacon during pregnancy could reduce the risk of having a child with colorectal cancer. This is because B6 increases the rate at which cells are shed from the lining of the colon.
Cons of Eating Bacon While Pregnant
– Some people mistakenly believe that eating bacon while pregnant is good for their baby. However, this is not true. Eating too much sodium or nitrates can cause complications for both the mother and child. – Eating too much sodium can increase the risk of high blood pressure and swelling. Both of these can lead to complications during pregnancy. – Eating too much sodium can also increase the risk of pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes. Pre-eclampsia is a condition that can lead to serious complications. It occurs when the expectant mothers blood pressure is too high. – Eating too much sodium can also cause constipation which is common during pregnancy. – Eating too much bacon or other foods containing nitrates can cause the risk of food poisoning.
Can I Eat Real Bacon While Pregnant?
Yes, it is safe to eat real bacon while pregnant. However, pregnant women are advised to eat no more than 6 slices (about 3 ounces) of nitrate-free bacon per week. Remember that bacon is high in sodium so you should try to eat it in moderation. Try to choose nitrate-free bacon because it is less likely to contain high levels of nitrates.
Can I Eat Fake (Processed) Bacon While Pregnant?
No, it is best to avoid fake bacon while pregnant. However, if you have been craving bacon, but have been trying to avoid it, then you can try fake bacon. Fake bacon is made from soybeans and it is not safe to eat while pregnant. Fake bacon contains high levels of sodium which can lead to complications during the pregnancy. Moreover, fake bacon is highly processed and contains very little protein and fatty acids. Fake bacon is not a good source of B vitamins and it can actually lead to a decrease in their levels in your body. Fake bacon is low in B vitamins and can cause a deficiency in the baby’s vitamins too.
Final Thoughts
There are many things to consider when it comes to eating bacon while pregnant. While most pregnant women should avoid bacon, there are some benefits to eating it in moderation. Additionally, it is important to choose nitrate-free bacon because it contains less sodium. While it is safe to eat bacon while pregnant, it is important to remember that it is a high-calorie food and should be eaten in moderation.