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.
Pregnant women usually have cravings for different foods that they want to eat. Paneer, an Indian cottage cheese curdled with lemon juice or vinegar, is often in the middle of these cravings. A frequent question is whether or not they can eat paneer because it is high in protein content and low in cholesterol. So, can you eat paneer when pregnant?
Can you eat paneer when pregnant?
Yes, paneer is an excellent source of protein and calcium for pregnant women and can be consumed during pregnancy. Paneer is also low in fat, making it an ideal snack choice for expecting mothers. However, the paneer should always be made with pasteurized milk so that it will reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses caused by bacteria such as listeria. Paneer should also be consumed in moderation rather than as a large portion of the diet.
In case you’re wondering about a diet that involves paneer, it is always wise to consult your doctor or nutritionist before making any significant changes to your daily menu.
Is paneer pasteurized?
Yes, paneer is usually pasteurized and heated to a boiling point to kill any harmful bacteria or organisms. As mentioned, pasteurization helps reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses and makes cheese safe to eat during pregnancy. If you’re getting one from grocery stores, you must ensure that the paneer you are buying is indeed pasteurized, and if not, look for alternatives that are. Ask the store or buy from a trusted source if there’s no label.
Can I eat paneer during early pregnancy?
Paneer can be eaten during early pregnancy in moderation as long as the cheese has been pasteurized and you follow your dietary plan as recommended by your doctor or nutritionist. Eating a balanced diet is essential for both the soon-to-be mom’s and her baby’s health, so it’s best to consult them first before making any significant changes.
Can I eat Palak paneer during early pregnancy?
Yes, palak paneer can be consumed during early pregnancy in moderation. Palak paneer is a popular dish made from spinach and cheese and is usually cooked with cream or yogurt for added flavor. The dish contains protein and calcium and can significantly help your pregnancy diet. But as we always say, it’s best to consult your doctor or nutritionist before consuming any type of food during pregnancy.
Is paneer good for fertility?
Paneer is indeed good for fertility. It is low in fat and high in protein and calcium, which can help promote fertility. Additionally, it contains the essential fatty acid linoleic acid, which has been linked to improved egg quality and higher success rates in IVF treatments.
Conclusion
Paneer is an excellent source of protein and calcium for pregnant women and can be consumed moderately during pregnancy. Ensure that the paneer you buy is pasteurized, as unpasteurized cheese may contain harmful bacteria. Eating palak paneer can also provide nutrition during early pregnancy.
Finally, those trying to conceive may benefit from the paneer, which has been linked to improved fertility. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet.
Sources:
https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/good-food/10-foods-to-eat-and-avoid-during-pregnancy/2019/09
https://www.medicoverfertility.in/blog/foods-can-help-increase-fertility,88,n,5475#:~:text=Dairy%20products%20are%20great%20for,(paneer)%2C%20lassi%20etc.
