Eating Peanut Butter During Pregnancy: Is it Safe?

Topic: Eating Peanut Butter During Pregnancy: Is it Safe?

There has been some concern about what pregnant mothers should or should not eat, including peanut butter. Pregnancy is a time where taste changes in a myriad of ways, and things that did not use to sound good may suddenly become a craving. Here, we will examine the common question that many expectant mothers wish to know: “Is it safe for me to eat peanut butter during my pregnancy?”

The Surprising Health Benefits of Peanut Butter

It can be difficult for expectant mothers to keep up with the dos and don’ts while coping with cravings during their pregnancy. While taste does change quite a bit, it is still important to indulge in a diet that is well-balanced. Luckily, it is safe for pregnant women to consume peanut butter, and it even has some surprising health benefits.

While everyone has different cravings, one key study involving 2,022 expectant mothers noted that peanut butter was a common craving. The reason for this particular craving may be physical or hormonal changes taking place in the body. However, it is safe, and even healthy, for pregnant women to consume peanut butter.

Peanut butter has many nutrients the body needs to function, including a large amount of healthy, unsaturated fats. It also contains protein and fiber. Although peanut butter has many calories, it is also relatively low in carbs. If you have gestational diabetes, you may need to carefully measure your carb intake, which makes peanut butter a prime choice.

Furthermore, peanut butter has plant-based protein and a low glycemic index. Protein is especially needed for the growth and development that accompanies pregnancies, making peanut butter a good (and satisfying) option. In addition, peanut butter contains large amounts of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which have also been linked to a reduction in the risk of developing heart disease. For these reasons, peanut butter remains a safe and healthy choice for pregnant women, as long as they do not have a peanut allergy.

Key Takeaway

One of the most stressful things an expectant mother must figure out is what the dos and don’ts are of her new diet. Many cravings arise, and it is important to eat a well-balanced diet so that the baby has everything they need. While some women have wondered if peanut butter is a safe option for pregnant women, it has not only proven safe, but healthy, for pregnant women who do not have any peanut allergies.

Topic Discussed: Eating Peanut Butter During Pregnancy: Is it Safe?

Read More