Corn in Pregnancy: Benefits & Side Effects

Pregnancy can come with a wide array of complex nutritional needs, and it’s important to get the right balance of nutrients to ensure a healthy pregnancy. For many women, corn is an excellent part of their diet during this time. Corn provides energy, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for pregnant women. In this article, we will discuss the benefits and side effects of eating corn in pregnancy. We will explore why it’s beneficial to include corn as a part of your prenatal diet, as well as potential risks to be aware of. Read on to learn more about using sweet corn during pregnancy for a balanced and nutritious diet.

Is eating corn safe during pregnancy?

There is a lot of conflicting information out there about whether or not eating corn is safe during pregnancy. Some sources say that it's perfectly fine, while others caution against it. So if you are wondering, Can I eat sweet corn during pregnancy, here's the answer.

Corn is a common food allergen, and pregnant women are advised to avoid foods that they are allergic to. Additionally, corn contains a compound called fumonisin, which can potentially cause birth defects. However, the fumonisin levels in corn are generally low and not thought to be harmful.

So, should you avoid corn during pregnancy? If you have an allergy to corn or are concerned about the potential for birth defects, it may be best to err on the side of caution and avoid it. However, if you don't have any concerns, then eating corn is probably safe.

What is the nutritional value of corn?

Corn is a nutritious food that can be a part of a healthy pregnancy diet. It is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Corn is also low in fat and calories. It also contains vitamins C and B6.

Per 100-gram serving following are the nutritional value:

• Calories: 86 grams
• Carbohydrates: 19 grams
• Protein: 3.2 grams
• Fiber: 2.7 grams
• Vitamin C: 11%
• Vitamin B6: 5%

Women should aim to eat at least six servings of grains per day, including sweet corn during pregnancy. Grains should be cooked or processed so that they are easy to digest.

Benefits of corn during pregnancy

Corn does have certain health benefits that make it beneficial for pregnant women:

• Corn is rich in fiber and antioxidants. These nutrients are essential for the overall health of the mother and the developing baby.
• Fiber helps to regulate digestion and can prevent constipation, a common problem during pregnancy.
• Antioxidants help to protect cells from damage and can boost the immune system.
• Corn is also a good source of folic acid. This nutrient is important for the development of the neural tube in the baby's brain and spine.
• Folic acid can also help to prevent birth defects of the brain and spine.
• Including corn in pregnancy can help you meet your nutrient needs and may provide some health benefits for you and your baby.

Side effects of corn while pregnant

Here are some of consuming corn during pregnancy:

• Corn is a common allergen, and pregnant women who are allergic to corn may experience severe reactions if they eat it.
• Additionally, corn contains goitrogens, which are substances that can interfere with the proper functioning of the thyroid gland.
• Another potential concern is that corn is a high-glycemic food, which means it can cause blood sugar levels to spike. This can be dangerous for pregnant women who have diabetes or gestational diabetes.
• Finally, some experts believe that the pesticides used on commercially grown corn may be harmful to developing fetuses.

What to eat and what to avoid with corn products

If you are pregnant and thinking about adding corn to your diet, there are some things you should keep in mind.

Processed corn products to avoid when pregnant:

• Corn chips
• Microwavable popcorn
• Corn syrup

Sweet corn products to have when pregnant:

• Fresh corn nob
• Frozen corn
• Organic or GMO-labelled corn

Conclusion

Corn can be a great addition to any pregnant woman’s diet, providing many essential nutrients and vitamins. However, due to its high sugar content and potential digestive difficulties, it is important for women who are pregnant to talk with their healthcare provider before adding corn to their daily meal plan. By understanding the benefits as well as possible side effects that may accompany corn consumption during pregnancy, expectant mothers can make an informed decision. Visit Mylo Family to learn about whether or not certain foods should be part of the prenatal nutrition routine.