Can I eat Greek yoghurt during pregnancy?

Yes. Greek yoghurt made from pasteurised milk is safe during pregnancy and is an excellent source of protein and calcium.

Is flavoured yoghurt safe during pregnancy?

It is generally safe if made from pasteurised milk, but plain or unsweetened yoghurt is usually a healthier choice because it contains less added sugar.

Can I Eat Yoghurt During Pregnancy? Is It Safe At Night?

Questions about the best time to eat certain foods are common during pregnancy, particularly when long-standing myths suggest that eating yoghurt at night may be harmful. Many women also wonder whether yoghurt is safe for their baby or if it can worsen digestion before bedtime. Fortunately, current medical evidence suggests otherwise. We spoke to Dr Tanveer Aujla, Senior Consultant – Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Sec 48, Noida, to understand this better.

Is Yoghurt Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes. As long as it is made from pasteurised milk, yoghurt is considered safe throughout pregnancy. The NHS advises that pasteurised dairy products can be safely included in a healthy pregnancy diet.

Dr Aujla explains that yoghurt is an excellent source of calcium and protein, two nutrients essential for healthy fetal bone growth and maternal wellbeing. It also contains beneficial probiotics that support gut health.

Can You Eat Yoghurt At Night?

Yes. There is no scientific evidence that eating yoghurt at night causes breathing problems or increases the risk of catching a cold.

The consumption of yoghurt is absolutely safe, and also very useful regardless of the time of day.Dr Tanveer Aujla, Senior Consultant – Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Sec 48, Noida

The ACOG recommends consuming nutrient-rich foods throughout the day according to individual appetite and nutritional needs rather than avoiding them based on the time of day.

Dr Aujla advises that a small serving of plain yoghurt before bed may even help reduce late-night hunger while being gentle on digestion.

How to choose yoghurt safely when pregnant

Benefits Of Yoghurt During Pregnancy

Regularly eating plain, pasteurised yoghurt may:

Provide calcium for your baby's developing bones and teeth.
Supply high-quality protein to support fetal growth.
Deliver probiotics that promote healthy gut bacteria.
Help ease bloating, heartburn and mild digestive discomfort.
Keep you feeling fuller between meals.

According to the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, adequate calcium intake during pregnancy is essential for maternal bone health and fetal skeletal development.

Research published in the PubMed also suggests that probiotic-containing foods such as yoghurt may support digestive health during pregnancy.

How To Choose Yoghurt Safely

To enjoy yoghurt safely during pregnancy:

Choose yoghurt made from pasteurised milk.
Prefer plain or unsweetened varieties to reduce added sugar.
Store it in the refrigerator and consume it before the expiry date.
Avoid yoghurt that has been left unrefrigerated for prolonged periods.

The FDA recommends proper refrigeration and safe food handling to reduce the risk of food-borne illness during pregnancy.

Yoghurt is a safe, nutritious food that can be enjoyed throughout pregnancy, including at night. Choosing pasteurised, unsweetened yoghurt and storing it correctly allows pregnant women to benefit from its calcium, protein and probiotic content while supporting both maternal health and their baby's development.

FAQs on Yoghurt During Pregnancy

Can I eat Greek yoghurt during pregnancy?
Yes. Greek yoghurt made from pasteurised milk is safe during pregnancy and is an excellent source of protein and calcium.
Is flavoured yoghurt safe during pregnancy?
It is generally safe if made from pasteurised milk, but plain or unsweetened yoghurt is usually a healthier choice because it contains less added sugar.