Can You Eat Bean Sprouts When Pregnant? [Explained]

Sami S
Sami S

Hello! I'm the editor of this website.

Even though our content is verified by doctors, psychologists, and experts from different disciplines, it can never substitute personalized advice from your doctor or counselor.

Thank you! 

Pregnant women often wonder what foods they are allowed to consume. This is applicable when it comes to bean sprouts. Some people believe that eating bean sprouts while pregnant can cause harm to the unborn child, while others maintain that it is perfectly safe. So, what is the truth? Let’s take a look.

Can you eat bean sprouts when pregnant?

Yes, as long as they are adequately cooked. Many pregnant women enjoy eating them in salads or as part of their regular diet. Bean sprouts contain beneficial nutrients for pregnant women and their unborn babies. They are rich in folate, vitamin C, iron, magnesium, and zinc, which can help the baby’s growth and development. Being low in calories and containing nutrients, bean sprouts are an excellent food for expectant mothers.

When purchasing bean sprouts at the grocery store, make sure to inspect them carefully for signs of spoilage. Discard the sprouts immediately if there is discoloration, pungent odor, or slimy texture. Once you bring them home, rinse them in cold water before consuming them. It is recommended to cook bean sprouts before eating, as this can help reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

Can I eat bean sprouts in Pho while pregnant?

Yes, it is safe to eat bean sprouts in Pho while pregnant. Pho is a famous Vietnamese soup that typically includes bean sprouts, noodles, and other vegetables. Eating bean sprouts in pho can be a good source of nutrition for pregnant women and their babies. Avoid adding extra oil or sauces to the soup to keep it healthy for you and your baby. Make sure to cook the broth in your Pho recipe completely before eating.

Can I eat microwaved bean sprouts when pregnant?

Yes, it is safe to eat microwaved bean sprouts when pregnant. Some chose to microwave their bean sprouts to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. However, microwaving can reduce some of the nutrition provided by bean sprouts, so it is best to eat them fresh when possible. As always, wash any fresh produce thoroughly before consumption and cook through before eating. It is also important to wash fresh sprouts before cooking them to reduce the risk of bacteria.

Can I eat bean sprouts in the soup while pregnant?

Yes, it is safe to eat bean sprouts in soup while pregnant. Soups like vegetable and soybean sprouts are popular dishes that often include bean sprouts. Eating soup with bean sprouts can give expecting mothers and their unborn babies essential nutrients such as folate, vitamin C, iron, magnesium, and zinc. To ensure the safety of your baby, make sure to cook all soups before consuming them.

Conclusion

Pregnant women are generally safe eating bean sprouts if properly handled and cooked. However, taking precautions such as inspecting the sprouts for spoilage and cooking them before consuming them is essential. With these safety measures in mind, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal with the peace of mind that your and your baby’s health is protected.

Sources:
https://www.ncertpoint.com/2022/01/can-i-eat-bean-sprouts-in-pho-while-pregnant.html
https://www.momjunction.com/articles/safe-eat-sprouts-pregnancy_0086612/