Verified by Kimberly Langdon M.D.
Kimberly Langdon is an obstetrician/gynecologist with 19 years of clinical experience and graduated from The Ohio State University, College of Medicine.
Snacks are crucial cravings for pregnant women, and sometimes, all you want is something salty and crunchy to satisfy your hunger.
Some moms recommend French onion dip and chips as the perfect snack because it is flavorful and easy to make.
However, some are concerned that raw onions might not be the best option for pregnant women.
So, can I have French onion dip when pregnant?
Let’s find out if it is safe for expecting mothers.
Can pregnant women have French onion dip?
Yes, french onion dip along with chips or other snacks is generally safe for pregnant women to eat in moderation.
However, the primary concern of pregnant women with French onion dip is probably the raw onions used to make the snack.
Pregnant women are advised to avoid eating raw or undercooked meats, poultry, and fish because of the risk of food poisoning from bacteria like salmonella or listeria.
These bacteria can result in severe illness or even death.
The excellent news is that raw onions are not considered a high-risk food for pregnant women and are not usually associated with the said bacteria.
On the contrary, onions are a good source of nutrients necessary to include in a pregnant woman’s daily diet.
If you’re making your french onion dip, it is essential to thoroughly wash the raw onions used in French onion dip before eating them.
In addition, avoid eating French onion dip if it has been sitting out for more than two hours, as this increases the risk of internal problems.
Benefits of onions during pregnancy
Onions are a healthy food to eat when pregnant. They’re low in calories and a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and folic acid.
Vitamin C is essential for pregnant women because it helps the body absorb iron, which is critical for preventing anemia.
On the other hand, Folic acid is necessary for pregnant women because it helps produce oxygen-carrying red blood cells. It also aids in preventing congenital disabilities of the brain and spine.
Onions also generally contain a high amount of antioxidants. These nutrients scavenge harmful toxins and byproducts that can damage cells, which is important for the baby’s development.
Although onions are a healthy food to eat when pregnant, it’s possible to have too much of a good thing. Eating too many onions can cause gas and bloating.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, cutting back on onions or avoiding them altogether is best.
What is french onion dip made of?
The traditional recipe for french onion dip calls for mayonnaise, yogurt, or sour cream as a base. Then, onions are caramelized in butter and mixed into the base.
Some recipes add grated cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper to the dip. These ingredients can add flavor, but they’re not necessary for the dish.
Conclusion
French onion dip is often considered a guilty pleasure, but pregnant women can safely eat it.
Onions are generally a healthy food to eat when pregnant because they’re low in calories and a good source of nutrients like vitamin C, folic acid, and fiber.
On the plus side, French onion dip is usually made with yogurt or sour cream, which can provide some calcium and other nutrients.
And if you make your own at home, you can control the ingredients and make sure it’s not loaded with unhealthy fats or artificial additives.
On the downside, it is often high in calories and sodium.
It can also be addictive, thanks to the combination of salty and savory flavors.
If you’re watching your weight or trying to eat healthy, it is probably not the best choice.
French onion dip or any other dish could always have a different effect for each individual.
Remember to consult your doctor before making significant changes to your diet during pregnancy.
