Eating nutritious food is very important during pregnancy. Whatever the pregnant woman eats during this time has a direct effect on the unborn baby. This is the reason that some substances are included in the food to give good health to the unborn baby, while some are advised not to eat. At the same time, there is confusion about milk whether it should be consumed during pregnancy or not. In this article, we will try to tell based on scientific research whether it is safe to drink milk during pregnancy or not. Along with this, you will also know that if it is safe to drink milk, then what can be the benefits of drinking milk during pregnancy.
Is it safe to drink milk during pregnancy?
Yes, milk can be consumed during pregnancy, but in moderation. According to research, beneficial elements like calcium and vitamin D are found in milk, which is essential for mother and baby. Medical research published on the website of NCBI also states that the consumption of milk is necessary for the development of the fetus. The weight of the baby remains correct by drinking the milk of a pregnant woman. Along with this, it has also been told in this research that excessive consumption of milk can increase the risk of large gestational age LGA.
Large gestational age is a condition in which the weight, length, and size of the head of the baby increase, due to which delivery can be hindered. On this basis, it can be said that the consumption of milk in a balanced quantity can be beneficial for pregnant women.
Benefits of Drinking Milk During Pregnancy
The benefits of drinking pregnancy milk can be many, out of which we are telling about the major benefits here.
1. Calcium in Milk
Pregnant women need calcium more than normal people. A pregnant woman needs to mg of calcium per day. At the same time, milk is considered a good source of calcium. A cup of fat-free milk contains milligrams and fat-free milk contains milligrams of calcium. Is provided by the fact that the more fat in milk, calcium intake is lower. Therefore, it can be good to consume milk to supplement calcium. You can also take supplements on the advice of a doctor to supply calcium.
2. Protein present in milk
Along with calcium, protein is also needed during pregnancy. Proteins can have a direct effect on embryonic development. Its deficiency can lead to a low birth weight of the baby during delivery. At the same time, protein is found in milk, which can protect the baby from the possibility of low birth weight. The proteins present in milk can protect against many diseases and can be helpful in increasing immunity. Therefore, it can be said that the benefits of drinking milk during pregnancy can be taken for fetal development.
3. Vitamin D present in milk protects against Rickets disease
Milk can be an important source of vitamin D, calcium, riboflavin, protein and energy during pregnancy. Therefore, consuming milk during pregnancy provides all these nutrients to a woman. The risk of high blood pressure can be avoided by consuming milk. Vitamin-D intake through milk can reduce the risk of rickets in the newborn. Rickets is a disease associated with osteoporosis, which can be caused by vitamin D in the newborn.
4. Hydrate Milk
It is advisable to consume fluids during pregnancy so that there is no shortage of water in the pregnant body. At the same time, in this article we have clarified above that milk is full of nutrients. Therefore, it can be said that milk is a fluid rich in nutrients, which can increase the amount of water in the body. Milk consists of percent water, so the benefits of drinking milk during pregnancy can be taken to keep the body hydrated.
Which milk is safe to drink during pregnancy?
Pasteurized milk: Experts believe that raw milk i.e. unpasteurized milk should not be consumed during pregnancy. Such milk may contain harmful bacteria such as Campylobacter, E. coli, Listeria and Salmonella, which can increase the risk of serious disease like TB. Therefore, always consume pasteurized milk during pregnancy to avoid any harm. Whether the milk is of cow or buffalo it must be boiled .
Low-fat: Consumption of low-fat milk toned milk may be better than fatty milk full cream milk during pregnancy, as it has higher calcium content . Consumption of excess fat in pregnancy can cause obesity and it can affect the mental and physical development of the fetus . Yes, if you like full cream milk, then it is better to consult a doctor before consuming it.
How to include milk during pregnancy?
When to consume milk: Milk can be consumed during pregnancy at any time. As far as quantity is concerned, at least glass of milk can be consumed per day . Also, dairy products can be consumed up to three cups per day in every trimester .
How to consume milk?
There are many ways to consume milk, such as:
Milk shakes can be made. You can also make tea as well. Be sure to consult your doctor about whether you can consume tea during pregnancy.
A delicious porridge can be made by adding oats or cornflakes to milk during breakfast and the benefits of drinking milk during pregnancy can be taken.
Products made from milk like cheese and curd etc. can also be consumed.
If you do not like the taste of milk, then you can drink milk by adding cardamom to the milk. Almond milk can also be drunk during pregnancy .
Some tips for drinking milk during pregnancy
- If you are allergic to milk, please consult your doctor before consuming it.
- Nowadays it can be difficult to get pure milk, so consume milk of good company.
- Take care of hygiene while boiling and drinking milk. Also use clean utensils.
- Store milk in the fridge. Do not consume spoiled milk, as it may contain harmful bacteria.