By Dr. Veena Bhatt,
Chief Clinical Nutritionist,
Sagar Hospitals, Bangalore

Papaya & pineapple are unsafe during pregnancy.

Unripe papaya contains a latex substance called chymopapain and pepsin which is linked to uterine contractions and unsafe if eaten and pineapple has an enzyme called bromelian which may lead to uterine contractions, but  eating ripe  papaya and pineapple  in moderate quantity do not cause miscarriage.

Eating rock sugar [mishri], beetle leaf & kesar will make the baby fair

There are no foods that help change complexion of an individual. Genetics plays an important role.

Tender coconut water will cause miscarriage.

Tender coconut water may be consumed as per recommendation. It is completely safe.

In pregnancy you are eating for two.

You are eating only for yourself. An additional 300-350 calories is recommended during pregnancy and

Horsegram, sesame seeds & drumstick increases body heat causing miscarriage

All of the above mentioned foods are rich in protein, calcium & iron and does not cause harm. It is important to note that all foods have to be consumed in moderation.

Ragi will change the child’s complexion turning it darker

There are no foods that help change complexion of an individual. Genetics and sunlight play a role.

All fish will cause mercury poisoning.

It is better to avoid seafood as it has mercury. Fresh water fish may be consumed as recommended.

Consuming turmeric will turn the new born yellow

There are no foods that help change complexion of an individual. Genetics and sunlight play a role.

“Cold items” – curd, cucumber, and fruits will cause cold

Unless the mother is allergic to a food item and the said item causes a cold every time she consumes it, no foods cause a cold just due to pregnancy.

Fluids have to be restricted in the last trimester and first 40 days after delivery

Fluids have to be consumed liberally both during pregnancy and post delivery due to increase in blood volume. Restricting fluids post partum hinders breastfeeding.

The child will catch cold, cough if the mother consumes “cold items” or certain foods which causes indigestion / gas to the baby

Unless the mother is allergic to a food item and the said item causes a cold every time she consumes it, no foods cause a cold, indigestion or cough because of the food consumed by the mother. Only nutrition is present in the breast milk and the digestion process happens after breast feeding

Pomegranate and beetroot are rich in iron and should be consumed daily

The above mentioned foods are good sources of iron. Green leafy vegetables, meat, pulses, nuts and seeds are very good sources of iron and may be consumed instead.

Eating spicy food induces labour.

This statement is untrue and eating spicy food does not induce labour.

Recommended

Eat healthy, limit salt, sugar and fat intake
Gain weight gradually during pregnancy
Follow meal timings. Exercise and sleep well