Pregnancy is one of the important stages in a woman’s life, where emotional overwhelming, and hormonal changes take place in a woman. Pregnancy cravings are one of the things that a woman goes through during this phase.
Craving for fast foods such as KFC is pretty common these days, however, there is confusion, about whether to consume KFC foods are not. It is one of the million-dollar questions that the new mommies-to-be are eager to know and here we break the things.
Here is everything you need to know about KFC during pregnancy, its effects, and its nutritional content.
Can you intake KFC during pregnancy?
Yes, KFC foods can be consumed during pregnancy, but on rare occasions. KFC itself advises its customers with the disclaimer that the foods contain Monosodium Glutamate that are not recommended for infants and pregnant women.
However, if you are craving it is always advised to go for healthier options like grilled chicken, chicken breast, green beans, and cornbread muffins. Consume it on rare occasions and balance it with other nutrient-rich foods.
Which of the KFC meals are healthy to eat when pregnant?
Do you crave KFC and don’t want to risk it on your baby’s health? We got you. Here are some of the KFC meals that you can eat when pregnant.
Grilled Chicken Over Fried
Yes, you can prefer grilled chicken over deep-fried KFC chicken. Fried chicken has high saturated fats and sodium. However, grilled chicken has less fat and less salt, which is far better than fried chicken.
Beware of the Sides
KFC offers numerous side dishes; however, not everything is good for pregnant women. Try to consume coleslaw, mashed potatoes, green beans, chicken breast, and cornbread muffins over French fries, deep-fried chicken, and other dips. Consuming more water is essential during pregnancy, however it should not be aerated.
Nutritional requirements during pregnancy
Before consuming KFC foods, know what your body needs during pregnancy. Here are the body needs and nutritional needs at Kentucky Fried Chicken.
What does your body need?
Folic Acid
These are essential for the brain and cell development. It is recommended to consume a daily dose of 600 mg of foods rich in folic acid. Foods such as green leaves, citrus fruits, and fortified cereals are rich in folic acid.
Iron
It is a key component in preventing anemia during pregnancy and 27 mg per day is recommended. Foods such as legumes, red meat, and whole grains are great sources of iron.
Calcium
These are essential for bone development for both the baby and the mother. Intaking 1000 mg is recommended through Dairy foods, tofu, and almonds are good sources of calcium.
Protein
Protein helps in the growth of tissues and a daily consumption of at least 71 grams is recommended. Foods that are rich in eggs, lean meat, and legumes are rich in protein.
Meeting nutritional needs at KFC
You can consume KFC on a rare or occasional basis unless it is not in your diet. Grilled chicken is a good source of protein, however, it doesn’t need all the nutrients that the body needs. Foods that are in KFC are high in sodium and fats. If you are entering KFC, prepare a balanced diet with nutrient-rich foods that will balance the nutritional content required.
Risks of eating fast food consumption during pregnancy
High Sodium Content
Kentucky Fried Chickens contain too much salt that can cause high blood pressure, which is not recommended during pregnancy.
Added Sugars
Desserts and fizzy drinks are high in sugar content and have a risk of excessive weight gain and the development of gestational diabetes.
Low in Nutrients
The KFC meals that are served are low in essential nutrients that are necessary for the child’s growth and the mother’s health. It may be risky, as regular consumption could lack the growth of the child.
Food Safety Risks
Foods that are served in KFC have the risk of being refrigerated and being either undercooked or contaminated.
Conclusion
To conclude, yes, you can consume KFC foods during pregnancy only on rare occasions. However, you need to keep in mind, what to eat and what not to. Consuming more often can negatively affect the nutritional diet.
It is recommended to consume KFC foods in a very small proportion and follow the right balanced diet to stay nutritious. Always consult your doctor or health care provider, if you have doubts about consuming fast foods.
FAQs
Consuming KFC during pregnancy is okay, but being on your limit is the key. Consuming KFC foods too often is not recommended. Always follow a balanced diet to fulfill the nutritional requirements.
Consuming KFC meals once a month is okay, but it is not recommended to consume them too often or add them to your diet. KFC itself has used a caution that it is not recommended for pregnant women. However, it is always recommended to consult your doctor for the right nutritional diet, to avoid health complications.
Yes, fried foods in KFC can affect your pregnancy, only if consumed in overdosage. The fried chicken has more sodium, which is harmful for both the mother and baby.
Mommas can choose grilled chicken, chicken breast, green beans, and cornbread muffins over other deep-fried foods, carbonated drinks, cheese, mayonnaise, and other high-sugar and sodium-rich foods.
Chicken that is grilled has less fat and less salt compared to deep-fried foods. The green beans are rich in fiber and vitamins. The chicken breast is a good source of lean meat, which has good protein content.
