The most common question first-time mothers ask is “Is eating cornstarch while pregnant safe? ” The answer is no. But if cooked, then, yes, eating cornstarch while pregnant has no known negative effects, if done in moderation. Pregnancy brings many changes, including unusual cravings. Some expectant mothers might crave cornstarch.
In this article, we’ll talk about eating cornstarch while pregnant. We’ll discuss the potential risks, any good things about it, and suggest safe alternatives to enjoy your cravings without hurting your health or your baby’s health.
Diving Deep Into Cornstarch
Cornstarch, that fine white powder in your kitchen, has a special role in cooking. It makes your sauces and soups thicker and smoother. But why are we talking about it in relation to pregnancy? Well, it turns out that some pregnant women have a unique craving for it. It’s important to note that cornstarch should never be eaten in its raw state. However, during pregnancy, some women develop unusual cravings, and cornstarch is one of them. Let’s explore this further and understand what’s going on.
Pregnancy cravings can vary widely, from chocolate and spicy foods to fruits and comfort foods like mashed potatoes or cereals. Some cravings, however, can be for non-food items, and this is where cornstarch comes into play. When pregnant women crave and eat non-food items like cornstarch, it’s known as PICA
Read also: Can You Take Theraflu While Pregnant?
Cravings and PICA During Pregnancy:
PICA is a condition where individuals, including abundant women, crave and absorb non-food items. These cravings can vary from ice, clay, and clay to, in some cases, cornstarch. PICA can be puzzling, but it’s capital to admit that it may announce assertive comestible deficiencies or affecting needs.
Cornstarch cravings can be occur due to various factors:
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Sometimes, these cravings arise from deficiencies in essential nutrients like iron or zinc.
- Texture and taste: There is something appealing about cornstarch’s texture, and it generally tastes bland. For pregnant women experiencing changes in taste perception, this texture and neutrality might be oddly satisfying.
- Emotional comfort:Some pregnant women use these non-food items for emotional comfort and as a coping mechanism.
Useful Link: Battling Pregnancy Fatigue: Boost Your Energy
Is Eating Cornstarch Safe During Pregnancy? The Truth!
You might wonder if it’s safe to eat cornstarch while pregnant. The answer is simple: cornstarch is safe when used in cooking or mixed with food. However, eating it raw can be risky. Here’s why
Raw Cornstarch Risks:
- Indigestible: Cornstarch is hard for your body to digest, which can lead to issues like choking, coughing, and digestive problems.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people are allergic to cornstarch, making it even riskier during pregnancy.
How Much Cornstarch Can I Eat?
When adding cornstarch to food, 1-2 tablespoons are usually sufficient. Consuming more than 5 tablespoons can lead to issues like high blood sugar, compromised blood sugar levels, and even high blood pressure. Be cautious and moderate when using cornstarch in your meals during pregnancy. Eating raw cornstarch is not suitable, especially for pregnant women.
Side Effects Of Eating Cornstarch While Pregnant
Excessive consumption of cornstarch, whether raw or cooked, can have adverse side effects on both your health and your baby’s health during pregnancy. Here are some of the known side effects to be aware of:
Digestive Issue
- Bloating: Cornstarch is a civilian achievement that can beat in the digestive tract, due to the accumulation of gas and causing bloating.
- Gas: The cooler of undigested cornstarch can aftereffect in the absolution of gas in the digestive system, accomplished to intestinal gas and discomfort.
- Diarrhea: Overindulgence in cornstarch may disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the gut, potentially causing diarrhea or loose stools.
- Stomach Discomfort: Consuming large quantities of cornstarch can lead to general stomach discomfort and a feeling of fullness.
It’s important to note that these digestive issues can vary from person to person, and not all pregnant women will experience them to the same degree. To prevent or alleviate these problems, it’s advisable to consume cornstarch in moderation and as part of a well-balanced diet. If you encounter severe or persistent digestive issues, consult with your healthcare provider for guidance and possible dietary adjustments.
Reduced Nutrient Intake
Fun fact: If you eat cornstarch it will take the place of essential nutrients which is bad for you and your baby’s health.
Weight Gain
Cornstarch is a starchy carbohydrate that’s high in calories. Eating too much cornstarch can cause unhealthy weight gain during pregnancy. This can increase the risk of problems like high blood pressure, diabetes, digestive issues for the baby, and complications during birth.
Nutrient Imbalance
Lastly, A diet excessively reliant on starch, like cornstarch, can lead to a nutrient imbalance during pregnancy. This means that while you’re consuming calories, you may not be getting enough essential vitamins and minerals required for a healthy pregnancy. This imbalance can negatively impact both the mother’s and the baby’s health. It’s crucial to maintain a balanced and nutritious diet during pregnancy to ensure the well-being of both you and your baby.
When to Pay Your OB-GYN a Visit
If you’re struggling with dietary issues, it’s important to reach out to your OB-GYN for guidance. Seeking medical assistance is a wise choice, especially if your cravings are making it challenging to maintain a balanced and healthy diet.
Discuss any symptoms of malnutrition and their associated side effects with your healthcare provider. They can assess your unique situation, address concerns, and provide recommendations on how to manage your cravings while ensuring adequate nourishment for both you and your baby on the way!
FAQs
1.Is it safe to eat cornstarch during pregnancy?
Generally, consuming cornstarch when mixed with food is considered safe. However, eating raw cornstarch is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential health risks.
2. What happens if you eat raw cornstarch while pregnant?
Eating raw cornstarch can lead to indigestion and may cause gastrointestinal issues. It’s advisable to avoid consuming it directly.
3. Are there any allergies associated with cornstarch during pregnancy?
Some individuals may be allergic to cornstarch, which can lead to allergic reactions. Pregnant women should be cautious if they have known allergies.
4. How much cornstarch is safe to eat during pregnancy?
Consuming a small amount of cornstarch (one to two tablespoons) when mixed with food is usually safe. However, excessive intake may lead to health problems.
5. What are the side effects of eating too much cornstarch while pregnant?
Excessive cornstarch consumption can result in increased blood sugar levels, compromised blood sugar control, and potentially high blood pressure.
6. Can eating cornstarch affect the baby’s development during pregnancy?
Overeating cornstarch may replace more nutrient-dense foods in the diet, potentially affecting the baby’s growth and development.
7. When should I seek medical advice about cravings during pregnancy?
If your cravings are making it difficult to maintain a balanced and healthy diet, it’s advisable to consult your OB-GYN for guidance. They can help address any concerns and provide recommendations to ensure proper nourishment for you and your baby.
These FAQs provide valuable insights into the safety of consuming cornstarch during pregnancy, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.
Writer, Child Development Specialist
Expertise
Nutritional Needs for Growing Children
Picky Eater Strategies
Effective Communication Techniques
Inclusive Education Techniques
Preparing Kids for School Transitions
Highlights
Founder and Head of Content Strategy for Parenting and Childcare with a specialized focus on nutritional needs for growing children and picky eater strategies.
Holds a Master’s degree in Child Development from Queens University.
Certified in Precision Nutrition, Child Development Associate, and New Parent Education.
Experience
Hannah Miller, M.Ed., combines academic insights with real-life parenting experience in her writing. Maria crafts articles on topics such as effective communication techniques, inclusive education, and preparing kids for school transitions that resonate deeply with parents and parents-to-be. She offers invaluable resources based on her extensive education, training, and firsthand experience as a parent. In her spare time, Maria enjoys hiking trails and experimenting in the kitchen with culinary delights.
