Research says 60% of Indian pregnant women deeply believe and adhere to these pregnancy diet myths. Most of the Indian diet is based on Ayurvedic principles. Ayurveda categorises foods as hot and cold. Consuming hot foods is believed to cause miscarriage or abortion. Studies reveal that more than 80% of pregnant women believe at least one diet myth.
Pregnancy Food Myths in India
Papaya
Papaya is often misunderstood and culturally boycotted during pregnancy. People believe consuming papaya during pregnancy carries potential risks of miscarriage and early labour. More than 82% of pregnant women in India believe consuming papaya during pregnancy is harmful. However, modern scientific research suggests otherwise.Unripe or semi-ripe papaya contains latex and papain, which can trigger uterine contractions and may increase the risk of miscarriage or early labour, especially in the first trimester. Ripe papaya is generally safe and beneficial to enjoy in moderation. Papaya loses latex and papain during ripening, which reduces the risk. Ripe papaya is a good source of folate, vitamins A and C, and fibre.
Also read: Fruits For Expectant Mothers: Must-Have Fruits During Pregnancy
Pineapple
Another misunderstood fruit during pregnancy in India is the pineapple. People believe consuming pineapple during pregnancy could lead to miscarriages, early labour, and cause harm to the foetus. Pineapple has an enzyme called bromelain, which is believed to soften the cervix and stimulate uterine contractions.A small amount of pineapple or one slice doesn't cause any harm. Pineapple is rich in vitamin C, which helps in iron absorption and boosts immunity. However, if you have acidity, gastritis, or gestational diabetes, you might have to be more cautious.
Mango
64% of pregnant women in India believe mangos are dangerous during pregnancy. Mango is believed to be a “hot” food, which can increase body heat and lead to miscarriage and premature birth. Some think that mongo can trigger gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) or increase weight.Ripe mangoes do not cause miscarriage or preterm labour and can be enjoyed in moderation. Mangoes are rich in vitamins A, C, E, potassium, fibre and antioxidants. Mangoes are naturally loaded with sugar, so portion control is key. Consuming in small portions doesn't cause gestational diabetes.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds have heating properties which are believed to cause harm to pregnant women, such as miscarriage or premature labour. Some people believe that sesame seeds may cause internal bleeding or affect blood circulation. However, sesame is safe to eat in normal portions during all trimesters. It does not stimulate uterine contractions, bleeding, or miscarriage.Sesame seeds are a rich source of calcium, which supports foetal bone development, iron to prevent anaemia, healthy fats to support foetal brain growth, magnesium, zinc, and fibre. These are high in calories, so avoid consuming excessive amounts.
Saffron
Saffron is believed to make your baby fair-skinned. People believe that drinking saffron milk or eating saffron-flavoured sweets improves a baby’s complexion. A baby's complexion doesn't improve by diet; it is purely genetic. Taking a high amount of saffron is not safe for a pregnant woman. Saffron contains bioactive compounds, such as crocin and safranal, that may stimulate uterine muscle activity.Avoid or limit saffron during the first trimester as it carries a miscarriage risk. Consuming a few strands of saffron during the second and third trimesters may help improve digestion and mood and relieve pregnancy cramps.
Brinjal/Eggplant
Eggplant is a commonly consumed food in India. It is believed to stimulate uterine contraction and increase the risk of miscarriage and premature birth. Brinjal absorbs Toxoplasma parasites from soil, posing a risk to pregnant women. Ayurveda restricts brinjal during pregnancy. Some also believe it may cause allergies, itching, and rashes.Brinjal is rich in dietary fibre, vitamins B1, B6, and K, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants, which support health. Properly washing and cooking reduces the risk of Toxoplasma gondii infection and indigestion during pregnancy.
Coconut Water
Coconut water is surrounded by many myths regarding pregnancy. Some believe drinking more coconut water during pregnancy increases the baby’s complexion. Some think drinking coconut water in the late trimester may induce labour and cause premature contractions. Some believe coconut water aggravates acidity and causes digestive issues.Coconut water is rich in electrolytes and potassium. It can alleviate stomach aches, prevent dehydration, and relieve digestive discomfort. Coconut water doesn't improve a baby's complexion. Because it is rich in potassium, magnesium, and electrolytes, it will keep you hydrated and help prevent pregnancy-related cramps and fatigue.
Ghee
Ghee is India's favourite ingredient. It also carries many myths when it comes to pregnancy. A common belief is that consuming more ghee during the last trimester lubricates the vagina and pelvic muscles, prevents a c-section, and eases the vaginal delivery. No scientific evidence proves that ghee prevents c-section and promotes painless vaginal delivery.Consuming ghee in moderation daily is safe. Although ghee is rich in calories, it is a healthy fat and doesn't contribute to unhealthy weight gain or increase total size. Ghee contains fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, which are well-suited to supporting energy demands during pregnancy. Ghee provides necessary fatty acids for foetal brain development and the mother's hormonal function.
Indian pregnancy diet myths exceed more than these 8 foods. Heat-producing foods, including jackfruit and banana, are believed to cause infection and miscarriage. Custard apples, dates, and guava are believed to increase a baby's complexion and size. Tea is considered to darken the baby’s skin tone, while herbal teas are believed to be safe. No scientific evidence proves that drinking tea will darken the complexion, and eating certain foods will make the baby fair.
Modern research evaluates foods based on their nutritional content and associated risks. Sometimes these restrictions may cause mental exhaustion and increase stress. Before avoiding or increasing consumption of any kind of food, do deep research and consult with your doctor for a better understanding.
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FAQs on Breaking Indian Food Myths: 8 Commonly Misunderstood Foods During Pregnancy
- Is Indian food okay to eat when pregnant?
Indian food in general prioritises a balanced plate. The Indian diet includes staple foods such as legumes, whole grains, dairy, fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and spices. A balanced Indian plate includes salads for fibre, dal, paneer, egg, chicken, or low-mercury fish for protein, rice, and roti for carbohydrates. - Are dals safe during pregnancy?
All dals are safe to consume in moderation during pregnancy. However, based on your eating patterns and digestion capabilities, you can re-look at black urad dal and black masoor dal as they may cause digestive issues. It is safe to add moong dal, masoor dal, and toor dal as they are rich in protein, folate, iron and support digestion.