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Gynecology & Pregnancy Care
Question #14253
45 days ago
90

rice in pregnancy - #14253

Myra

I am really worried about what I should be eating during my pregnancy. I thought I was doing good with my diet, but recently I started questioning everything. My doctor said rice in pregnancy can be a good source of carbs, but I read some stuff online that made me feel uneasy. Like, I love rice and eat it almost every day with my meals, but is it really safe? I’ve had a bit of nausea and tiredness, which I hear is normal, but sometimes I feel like I might be overdoing it with the rice in pregnancy. Does eating a lot of rice in pregnancy actually make a difference in any way? I know fiber is important, but should I be concerned about the portions? Plus, I saw a friend mention brown rice is better than white rice in pregnancy, is that true? I want to make sure I’m getting enough nutrients for the baby, not just filling up on rice in pregnancy. Anyone have experience with this or any tips on how to balance things out? It’s all a bit confusing and I just want to do what’s best for both of us!

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Doctors’ responses

Eating rice during pregnancy can definitely be part of a balanced diet. Rice is a good source of carbohydrates, which are important for energy, especially when you’re feeling tired. While eating rice daily isn’t inherently harmful, moderation and variety are key due to potential concerns like arsenic content in rice. Arsenic is naturally found in the environment and can be higher in rice compared to other grains. To minimize exposure, you might want to rinse rice before cooking and use plenty of water, discarding the excess after cooking. This can reduce arsenic levels significantly. Regarding brown versus white rice, brown rice retains more nutrients including fiber, vitamins, and minerals because it’s less processed. Fiber is indeed quite important in pregnancy as it helps with digestive issues like constipation, which can be quite common. However, brown rice also contains more arsenic than white rice, so balancing intake is wise. Including a variety of other whole grains such as quinoa, oats, or barley can provide diverse nutrients and limit any potential risks from rice. When considering portions, aim for balance by including protein sources, vegetables, and healthy fats in your meals. These will contribute to a well-rounded intake of nutrients crucial for both your health and the baby’s development. If you’re facing nausea, eating small frequent meals, rather than a few large ones, may help. Remember to listen to your body; if rice sometimes feels too heavy, try other grains or even substitute with alternatives like sweet potatoes. Ultimately, diversifying your diet will help ensure a broad spectrum of nutrients, which is beneficial during pregnancy. If you have persistent concerns or dietary questions, seeking advice from a nutritionist who specializes in prenatal care might be helpful.

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