RD
Reda Elmardi is a registered dietician, certified nutritionist, and certified strength and conditioning specialist trainer. The 32-year-old is a certified nutritionist from the UNC's Online MPH with Nutrition concentration, and has around ten years of experience. Reda has been an NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Trainer since 2015 and owns thegymgoat.com. He shares sports nutrition tips and gives guidance on exercises, sports and martial arts, through his website.Being a Brazilian jiu-jitsu brown belt enables Reda Elmardi to understand the body functions better, and how far we can go with it. He was involved in research work undertaken by UCLA Center for Human Nutrition, Los Angeles, among others. Reda's work has been featured on Healthline, HuffPost, Life Hack, She Finds, Porch, and more.
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According to the Cambridge English dictionary, finger foods are foods only eaten with your fingers instead of cutlery. Since this is how toddlers consume food when they’re seven or eight months old, finger foods for toddlers can help them develop independent eating habits. However, before offering them any finger foods, quick snacks, on-the-go snacks, or mini snacks, you should find out which finger foods toddlers can eat. Moreover, along with the taste of the food, you should examine the nutritional value. Read this post to learn about some nutritious and simple toddler finger food recipes you could make for your little ones for each mealtime. [mj-toc] What Are Some Popular Finger Food Ideas For Toddlers? Toddlers can eat solid foods that they are not allergic to. Here are some finger food ideas (from various food groups, including fruits and vegetables) that would suit your toddlers’ palate. Vegetables are the leading finger food choices for toddlers, as they provide several vitamins...
You might wonder, can you eat tofu while pregnant? This post will help you answer this question. Tofu is also a rich source of calcium which helps in the development of bones in the body (1). It is a rich source of all essential nutrients that are needed in pregnancy. It is a high protein source that is important for ensuring the proper growth and development of the fetus. Read on to know more about the benefits of having tofu during pregnancy and a few possible side effects. [mj-toc] A Closer Look At Tofu Tofu is a popular vegetarian and plant-based protein source that can provide many essential nutrients for pregnant women, including folate, a key nutrient that supports healthy fetal development and can help prevent birth defects. Tofu is a type of vegan cottage cheese that is made of soy milk. Here’s more information about this highly nutritious food item: Tofu is derived from the milk of soybeans. [caption id="attachment_891258"...
Durian is a large-sized fruit with a strong odor. It is commonly found in Southeast Asia. While you may love it for its unique taste, you may wonder if it is safe to eat durian during pregnancy. Pregnant women have to be careful about everything they eat. However, while you may read the label on packed food, it is not as easy to know about fruits and vegetables’ contents and nutritional value. Read on to know about the safety, health benefits, and if you can eat durian during pregnancy. [mj-toc] What Is Durian? Durian is a type of fruit, hailed as the king of fruits in Southeast Asia. Its strong odor is its specialty as well as a put-off for some. It has a husk covered in thorns. While it is available in various forms, only one type of durian fruit is available in the international market. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/nutritious-fruits-to-eat-during-pregnancy_0075720/" title="20+ Healthy Fruits To Eat During Pregnancy, With Benefits"] Is It...
The benefits of yam during pregnancy are numerous for you and your baby. It is a rich source of vitamins, folic acid, and potassium and can help prevent various pregnancy-related health problems and aid in healthy fetal development. Yam is a starchy vegetable that is similar to sweet potatoes in appearance but less sweet. They are rich in nutrients that can help alleviate morning sickness and pregnancy-related digestive problems. They also help babies achieve a healthy birth weight. If you are considering including this root vegetable in your pregnancy diet, you can safely do so after consulting your healthcare provider. This is because yam may cause complications if you suffer from certain underlying conditions. Continue reading to know more about the consumption of yam during pregnancy, including its beneficial properties and side effects. [mj-toc] Benefits Of Eating Yam During Pregnancy If you like eating yam, there is no reason to stop now. Here are some reasons why including nutritious foods...
Pomegranate is a sweet-tangy, nutritious fruit that most people love. Some enjoy eating pomegranate seeds, while others enjoy its juice. If you crave pomegranate during pregnancy, knowing how much you can safely consume daily is essential to avert the complications that its excess intake can cause. Read on as we give you an insight into the safety of pomegranates and its juice for pregnant women, how many pomegranates you can eat daily, its benefits on maternal health, side effects, and effective ways to include the fruit in your pregnancy diet. [mj-toc] Is It Safe To Have Pomegranate And Pomegranate Juice When You Are Pregnant? Pomegranate juice is known to prevent certain pregnancy risks such as [simple_tooltip text="preterm birth" tooltip="A birth that occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy" ] and [simple_tooltip text="preeclampsia" tooltip="A pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure that usually begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy" ] (1) (2). However, overconsumption of this superfood and its juice is not suggested, as...
Peanuts are a great source of protein and many other important nutrients. However, most women are apprehensive about the safety of consuming peanuts when breastfeeding. If the mother has nut allergies, children may also develop the same in most cases. Also, while breastfeeding, a small part of the protein present in the peanuts may leak into the milk and cause allergies in the baby. Therefore, you must be cautious about including them in the maternal diet while breastfeeding your baby. Read the post to know more about having peanuts when nursing, their health benefits, and the associated risks. [mj-toc] Health Benefits of Peanuts During Breastfeeding Peanuts, just like other nuts, can turn out to be a healthy source of protein, which is required by new mothers during and after pregnancy, particularly while breastfeeding. One of the best parts about choosing peanuts is that unlike other protein sources, they can be consumed raw. Peanuts can also turn out to be great...
Rice is a staple food in many cultures. However, many expectant mothers might frequently ask themselves if it is safe to have rice during pregnancy. The good news is that you can have either brown rice or white rice and not be worried. Brown rice is a rich source of magnesium and nutrients that help in [simple_tooltip text="neurotransmission" tooltip="Natural substances that allow neurons all through the body to communicate with one another" ]. Thus, it helps improve the developing baby's brain and other cognitive functions. However, having an excessive amount of rice might increase the risk of weight gain and cause complications during pregnancy. Read on to know more about the benefits and side effects of having rice while pregnant. [mj-toc] Benefits Of Eating Rice During Pregnancy 1. Provides instant energy [caption id="attachment_889189" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Rice contains high amounts of carbohydrates that energize your body immediately. So, rice acts as a fuel to keep you energetic and active...
The consumption of soy milk in the gestation period can provide you with several essential nutrients. It is rich in folic acid and protein, besides other nutrients, which help in the physical development of the fetus. This nutrient-rich natural and vegan milk substitute is made with soaked soybeans and can boost your energy and enhance immunity during pregnancy. However, excess consumption may have adverse effects on you and your baby. Despite its benefits, the consumption of soy milk during pregnancy should be in moderation. It will let you reap the benefits while mitigating any potential risks for your baby. If you had never consumed soy milk before or consumed it occasionally, you may consult your doctor first. This post will tell you about soy milk, including its benefits, side effects, and recommended daily intake for pregnant women. [mj-toc] Health Benefits Of Soy Milk During Pregnancy Though there may be some discrepancies about consumption of soy milk in pregnancy, here are...
Pregnant women love the tangy taste of tamarind and believe that it effectively reduces morning sickness. However, some of them are concerned about the safety of tamarind during pregnancy. Tamarind is believed to be safe for consumption during pregnancy and can serve as a good source of nutrition during pregnancy. It not only helps to reduce the symptoms of morning sickness but also provides many essential nutrients required for the growth of the fetus. However, it is important to consult a doctor before consuming tamarind to be on the safe side. Read the post for more details on the benefits of tamarind during pregnancy and the precautions you should take while consuming it. [mj-toc] What Is Tamarind? Tamarind is a fruit that grows in a pod and its pulp is very sour. The sour taste of tamarind tantalizes your taste buds while you are pregnant. What Are The Uses Of Eating Tamarind During Pregnancy? [caption id="attachment_890194" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption]...
Pregnancy is a time of myriad cravings. Some women like sweets, while others crave something sour or spicy. For those who love the sweet-sour taste, refreshing mosambi juice during pregnancy is just what they need to satisfy their craving and hydrate themselves. Mosambi, also called sweet lime, is a fruit with numerous health benefits and is a natural source of vitamin C. However, it is best to consume this fruit in moderation while pregnant. Explore more about the safety, potential benefits, and right ways of consuming mosambi juice in pregnancy. [mj-toc] What Is Sweet Lime? Sweet lime, Mosambi or Citrus limetta, is a spherical greenish-yellow citrus fruit usually found in South Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, South East Asia and Mediterranean countries. Mosambi is part of the lime family, but unlike other cousins, it is sweet, and it does not have the tanginess of limes or other citrus fruits. The fruit usually grows on trees and has a thick skin with...
Durian fruit is often called the king of fruits in the southeast region. Many people consume durian fruit for infertility problems since it has various medical benefits. Durian is a large fruit covered with a thorny husk and has a characteristic foul-smelling odor. It is consumed worldwide not just because the taste is appealing but also because it is a good source of nutrition and offers health benefits. Keep reading to learn more about how durian can help with reproduction, its other health benefits, and when you should eat durian to get pregnant. [mj-toc] How Durian Can Help Women In Conceiving ? 1. Contains Estrogen: [caption id="attachment_893235" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] According to Dr. K. Francis, the head of the Botany Department at Bharathiar University in India, the fruit contains estrogen hormones. These hormones are produced naturally in the human body, but may not be available at sufficient levels in some women, thereby causing infertility. Due to the high amount...
Children often get bored with eating the same kind of food. So why not include some variety in their meal along with tasty Nutella recipes for kids. With most kids loving this yummy chocolate spread, you may happily include Nutella in your child's food preparations. Moreover, this high-calorie ingredient could also help satisfy your super-active child's energy requirements. In this post, we bring some of the interesting and irresistible Nutella recipes that will be loved by your little ones and leave them asking for more. [mj-toc] Ten Nutella Recipes For Kids You can prepare these recipes with your kid’s help to make it more fun: 1. Nutella Cake With Eggs: [caption id="attachment_350047" align="aligncenter" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You Will Need: 4 eggs 240 g Nutella How To: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a cake pan using baking paper and set it aside. Beat the eggs in a mixing bowl until they become fluffy. Place the Nutella in a...
Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) is a bright red-colored exotic tropical fruit indigenous to Southeast Asia. Its sweet taste and nutrient-rich profile make it a healthy choice. However, if you are a pregnant woman, you might want to know if it is safe to consume Rambutan during pregnancy. Read on as we give you the answer in this post. Adding this nutrient-rich fruit to your pregnancy diet may provide you with essential vitamins such as vitamin C, minerals such as iron and calcium, and fiber; furthermore, it may contribute to your increased dietary needs. So, scroll down and read more about the safety of Rambutan for expectant mothers, its possible health benefits and side effects, and the right ways to include Rambutan in your diet. [mj-toc] Is It Safe To Eat Rambutan Fruit During Pregnancy? [caption id="attachment_888458" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You may have rambutan in small quantities. The fruit is high in fats and calories and might help you gain ample...
Eating halibut during pregnancy or not could be a question popping in your mind. You should keep an eye on everything you eat during pregnancy since some contents can affect the fetus. Fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, and two to three servings of various fish are recommended for pregnant women. However, health organizations also recommend opting for fishes with low mercury content and avoiding highly toxic fishes. Continue reading to know the effects and safety of eating halibut during pregnancy if you plan to include it in your diet. [mj-toc] What Is Halibut? [caption id="attachment_892725" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] A halibut is a type of flatfish and belongs to the family Pleuronectidae. It is native to the northern Pacific and Atlantic waters. Halibut is grilled, fried, or steamed for consumption. It is a widely eaten fish in most parts of the world. The Pacific halibut has a sweet and mild taste. It has a characteristic snow...
Without a doubt, popcorn is a classic and favorite movie snack. However, you can give this popular snack a new twist by experimenting with some popcorn recipes for kids. Popcorn is made by heating corn kernels till they puff up. This light snack is easy on the stomach and is popularly served salted or caramelized. From ranch-style popcorn to peanut butter ones, we have some interesting and unique recipes that you may not have heard of or tasted before. So dive in to try some of the tastiest popcorn recipes you can easily make for your children to tingle their taste buds. 10 Easy Popcorn Recipes For Kids Popcorn is a winner when it comes to kids and adults alike. While you love these munchies, there are various ways you can enhance the flavor of the plain popcorn. Here are ten healthy popcorn snacks for kids that will let you do just that: 1. Basic Buttered Popcorn: [caption id="attachment_368098" align="aligncenter" width="720"]...
If you are thinking of consuming bee pollen during pregnancy, it is important to know its benefits and side effects. Bee pollen is highly nutritious and can be consumed as supplements or added to foods as toppings. It can benefit pregnant women by reducing the risk of preeclampsia and fetal developmental problems, besides boosting immunity. However, it may also induce allergic reactions and lead to other adverse outcomes. Hence, a doctor’s consultation is necessary before consuming any supplements or special foods during pregnancy. Continue reading to know more about bee pollen consumption during pregnancy, including its benefits and whether it is safe. [mj-toc] 1. Reduces The Risk Of Hypertension: Bee pollen helps to purify the blood and aid the supply of oxygen to the brain cells. It reduces the risk of high blood pressure or hypertension in women throughout the pregnancy. Hypertension can spell danger for both the mother and the baby in her womb. Bee pollen also reduces pregnancy...
If your little bundle of joy has started eating solids, you may have considered including fish in their diet. However, to ensure you introduce this protein to them in an age-appropriate manner, you should find the right fish recipes for babies. Fish is known to be highly beneficial for children and adults (1). It contains high amounts of vitamin D and omega 3 fatty acids, which are important for the adequate development of your baby’s brain and eyes. They also contain high levels of proteins without saturated fat content. However, it is a well-known fact that introducing new foods to babies and children is not easy. So how should you go about it? Read on for a list of healthy, simple, and delicious fish recipes that you can try making for your baby. [mj-toc] When To Include Fish In Your Baby’s Diet? [caption id="attachment_892489" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] When it comes to fish, there is a cacophony of expert voices!...
The foods or beverages that are otherwise healthy may not impart similar benefits to a pregnant woman. Dandelion tea during pregnancy is one such beverage. It is an herbal tea that is believed to be good for the liver besides other helpful properties. Although it can reduce pregnancy stress, it may be difficult to determine the correct amount to drink during pregnancy without causing complications. This post will tell you more about dandelion tea and its use in pregnancy, including the benefits and safety. [mj-toc] What Is Dandelion Tea? [caption id="attachment_890639" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Dandelion is a herb. Typically, the top or above ground parts are for medicinal purposes. It helps ease many conditions, but there remains little proof of its efficacy to treat such conditions. Purported to help overcome a loss of appetite, intestinal gas, upset stomach, gallstones, muscle aches, joint pain, bruises, etc., the tea also increases urine. Many cultures use it for a healthy skin tone...
If you have a baby in the weaning stage and wish to introduce new flavors and foods to them, you could try cherry purees for babies. Cherries contain a high amount of beta-carotene, a powerful [simple_tooltip text="antioxidant" tooltip="Substances that may prevent or slow down some types of the cell damage caused due to harmful molecules called free radicals." ]. Thus, they are good for developing your baby’s immune system. However, you cannot risk giving whole cherries to your baby as they might be a choking hazard. Thus, you could add them to your little one’s diet by making them purees. Read on to know about the procedure of making cherry puree and its benefits for your little one. [mj-toc] What Are The Health Benefits Of Cherries For Baby? As with any new food that you introduce to your baby, it is important to first speak to your baby’s doctor before introducing cherries too. You can start giving your baby cherries...
Olive oil is one of the healthiest oils rich in mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids (MUFA and PUFA), vitamin E, and vitamin K. It also contains bioactive compounds that promote health. Thus, you might consider trying olive oil during pregnancy. But is olive oil a safe choice for pregnant women and their developing babies? If you switch to olive oil, what benefits can it confer to you and your unborn baby? Keep reading as we tell you all about olive oil and its safe use during pregnancy. [mj-toc] Consuming Oils During Pregnancy [caption id="attachment_890598" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] As much as it is important to focus on the food groups that you will be eating during pregnancy, it is also equally vital to understand the kind of oils that form a part of your meals. Olive oil is considered to be the best option among the rest, not only for pregnant women, but for everyone. Adding olive oil to your...
The native drink of China, Kombucha, imparts many health benefits. But can kids drink kombucha? Children's bodies work differently than adults. Hence, parents need to exercise caution while introducing children to any new food or drink item. Kombucha, or the immortal health elixir, is a fermented tea prepared with a mixture of black or green tea, sugar, and a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCBY). Fruit juices may also be used in its preparation. The fermentation is a week-long process and leads to 0.5% alcohol content. Given the lack of infallible evidence of its 100% safety, there can be certain side effects such as allergies and stomach infections. That is why a doctor’s consultation is important. Read on to know more about kombucha for kids, including its side effects and some safety tips. [mj-toc] 12 Health Benefits Of Kombucha For Kids 1. Improves Digestion: [caption id="attachment_886341" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Naturally fermented probiotics in the Kombucha promote the growth...
Asparagus is mostly used as an accompaniment for dishes such as grilled chicken or baked dishes. The consumption of asparagus in pregnancy can provide you with the highest folic acid content compared to all the other vegetables required for the baby's healthy development. In addition, it is a rich source of fiber and vitamins that can help protect you from pregnancy problems, such as constipation, and the fetus from [simple_tooltip text="congenital disabilities" tooltip="A structural or functional abnormality present from birth" ]. Asparagus is rich in various nutrients and is a versatile vegetable that can be cooked in numerous ways, depending on your taste and preference. So read on if you are craving some delicious crunchy asparagus while pregnant. We have provided its beneficial properties and some tips and ways to have it in this post. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/amazing-benefits-of-folic-acid-for-pregnancy_0075542/" title="5 Reasons To Take Folic Acid In Pregnancy And Its Dosage"] [mj-toc] Health Benefits Of Eating Asparagus During Pregnancy To enjoy asparagus look...
Strawberry is a nutrient-dense fruit rich in vitamins, fiber, and [simple_tooltip text="antioxidants" tooltip="Man-made or natural substances that may prevent or slow down cell damage caused due to harmful molecules called free radicals" ]. But since they are acidic, parents might want to know when can babies have strawberries. Thankfully, you may make strawberries a part of a baby’s weaning diet. The fruit can contribute to their overall nutritional needs, promoting their health and supporting growth and development. Read on to know when babies can eat strawberries, what possible health benefits they can offer to babies, and the age-appropriate ways to feed them to your little one. [mj-toc] When Can Babies Have Strawberries? Most healthy babies eating solid foods can have strawberries from around six months (1). First, you can feed smooth, lump-free strawberry puree or mash to babies in small amounts. Once the baby develops the taste and digestibility for the fruit, you can add strawberries to purees made with...
When most women find out about their pregnancy, they tend to be cautious about everything they eat and include in their pregnancy diet. For example, most women are apprehensive about consuming certain types of cheese, such as brie cheese, during pregnancy. However, it is recommended that women check the various health aspects and risks of the foods they consume during pregnancy. If you are wondering about the safety aspects and the possible side effects of consuming cheese, especially brie cheese, during pregnancy, you have come to the right place. Browse through this post to learn all the benefits and safety concerns of eating brie cheese when pregnant. Also included are some interesting recipes with brie cheese that you could try. [mj-toc]What Is Brie? Brie is a kind of soft cheese made using cow’s milk. It is named brie after the region of Brie in France from where it actually originates. Brie cheese has a soft pale color and sometimes can...
As soon as you learn about your pregnancy, you begin to plan your diet as per your increased appetite and nutritional requirements. Including protein-rich foods during pregnancy is a must. You must have at least 75 to 100gm of protein daily to aid in the healthy development of your baby. Moreover, protein is a vital dietary need for pregnant women to develop uterine and breast tissues. Also, lack of sufficient protein during pregnancy may negatively impact fetal growth and cognitive development. Therefore, you must have a minimum of 60gm protein every day to ensure a healthy pregnancy journey. Keep reading to learn about the signs of protein deficiency while pregnant, protein-rich foods and supplements to take during pregnancy. [mj-toc] Protein Rich Foods During Pregnancy Let’s take a look at foods rich in protein that you can take during pregnancy. Dairy products are good source of protein. You need to make sure you are taking yoghurt, eggs, milk, cheese and paneer...
Blueberries are excellent sources of folate, potassium, and antioxidants. Having blueberries during pregnancy could offer a number of nutritional benefits for the expecting mother. Apart from boosting your health and helping manage weight, they may be beneficial for your growing fetus too. So, are you keen to include these nutrient-packed, delicious berries in your pregnancy diet? Delve into this post as we explore the benefits, safety aspects, interesting recipes, and some tips to consume blueberries while pregnant. [mj-toc] What Are Blueberries? The indigo-colored berries are the fruit of a flowering plant that grows in North America. Blueberries are relatives of cranberries and bilberries i.e. all the three berries belong to the same family. (1) Are Blueberries Good For Health? [caption id="attachment_890935" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Blueberries are a must-have as they are a rich source of Vitamin K, Vitamin C, manganese, dietary fiber, and copper (2). These nutrients are essential for your and your baby’s health during pregnancy. [mj_protip type="Quick...
The consumption of caffeine-free beverage ginger ale during pregnancy can relieve you of your morning sickness and nausea. In addition, this drink containing ginger may prevent digestive problems commonly experienced by pregnant women. If you are craving a refreshing drink while pregnant, you can enjoy this in a moderate quantity. The beverage may tingle your taste buds but also provide you with good health benefits. Scroll through to know about ginger ale, including its benefits for pregnant women and a recipe for an easy homemade ginger ale. [mj-toc] What Is Ginger Ale? Ginger ale is a popular soft drink that usually contains carbonated water, sugar and ginger flavor. The use of ginger gives a natural flavor and aroma to the drink. Pineapple and honey may also be additional ingredients in ginger ale. It may also contain yeast if it is carbonated through natural fermentation. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/safe-eat-pineapple-pregnancy_002951/" title="Pineapple During Pregnancy: Is It Safe & Will It Trigger Labor"] What Are The...
Many pregnant women, especially first-time mothers, have several questions regarding the kind of foods they should eat and avoid to have a safe pregnancy. One such question is if it is safe to eat turnips during pregnancy. Among several other pregnancy-related pieces of advice, you may be flooded with suggestions about the diet you should follow and foods you must avoid. In addition, the plethora of information from various offline and online sources can leave you puzzled. So, dive into this post as we bring you information regarding the safety of turnips during pregnancy. [mj-toc] What Is Turnip? Turnips are also called root crops or vegetables, but they are a part of the [simple_tooltip text="Cruciferous family" tooltip="A diverse vegetable family including cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and turnips, known for their low-calorie and fiber-rich nature" ]. They are also called as “Neep” in the Northern part of Scotland and England. Turnips are a rich source of vitamins particularly Vitamin C (1). The...
Elderberry or elders are dark purple berries indigenous to Europe. Various parts of the Elderberry plant are used in traditional and folk medicine to treat cold, flu, and constipation (1). Although you can take Elderberry when pregnant, you should also exercise caution as consuming raw elderberries can adversely affect your health and that of your unborn baby. Keep reading as we tell you about the safety of Elderberry for pregnant women, its health benefits and side effects, and the different ways you can consume elderberry when pregnant. [mj-toc] Is Elderberry Safe During Pregnancy? Yes, elderberries are considered to be safe during pregnancy, since there is no studies/ data collected indicating that they have any adverse side effects, drug interactions, and food or nutrient reactions in pregnant women. Black elderberries are also considered safe for consumption and are known to support immune system as dark purple elders do. There are no studies suggesting they have adverse effects during pregnancy. However, unripe...
Bologna is a dried, smoked beef sausage, like salami. It is a blend of meat, fat, salt, and spices. Many women who love meat might be apprehensive about eating bologna while pregnant. If you are craving that bologna sandwich during pregnancy and not sure if it would be safe, scroll down this post to know more about its safety and alternatives to bologna. [mj-toc] What Is Bologna? Bologna is a type of sausage made out of finely ground pork and contains chunks of lard in it. According to the regulations of the US Government, the Bologna that is sold in the American market has to be finely ground and should not have any visible chunks of lard. Alternatively, Bologna can also be made using soy protein, chicken, beef, venison or turkey. Some of the most common seasonings that are found in Bologna sausage include coriander, black pepper, allspice, celery seeds and nutmeg. Here are some of the most common types...
Consuming soybeans during pregnancy is a good way to add some protein to your diet. However, it should be eaten in moderation to avoid any harmful effects. Maternal nutrition plays an important role in the growth and development of the baby. A well-balanced diet can provide all the nutrients along with recommended prenatal vitamin and mineral supplementations. Read on to know the recommended servings and benefits of soybeans during pregnancy and how to incorporate soy into your pregnancy diet. [mj-toc] The Debate On The Consumption Of Soybeans During Pregnancy [caption id="attachment_891849" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Soybeans are considered to be an excellent food choice for pregnant women. They contain high protein, fiber, iron, folate, zinc, magnesium, calcium, vitamin B6, and vitamin K. However, they can cause some problems if consumed while pregnant. The most significant risk of eating soybeans while pregnant is that they may affect your baby’s brain development. This is because soybeans have phytoestrogens (plant estrogens), which can...
As you begin to share the news of your pregnancy, you will get tons of advice from your close ones on foods to eat and avoid during pregnancy. One of the diet suggestions could be consuming lemongrass during pregnancy. Since pregnancy is a delicate period, you should be quite cautious about what you eat. Therefore, you may want to know if it is safe to include lemongrass in your pregnancy diet before doing so. Read on as we explain some important aspects of lemongrass and the safety considerations of adding it to your diet during pregnancy. [mj-toc] What Is Lemongrass? Lemongrass is a [simple_tooltip text="perennial" tooltip="long-lasting, continually recurring. " ] plant also called the fever grass. It has long and thin leaves and is found throughout Asia. The grass has a lemony smell but has a sweeter and milder taste than a lemon. It is commonly used as a herbal ingredient in different Asian cuisine, and as a flavoring agent...
Mango is a juicy tropical fruit rich in nutrients. Ripe mangoes taste sweet and have a soft pulp with a sweet aroma. Mangoes are also [simple_tooltip text="hypoallergenic" tooltip="Characteristic of a substance to cause fewer allergic reactions" ]and relatively easy to digest, making mango for babies a good choice. But while mango seems to confer several benefits, you need to know the right age and appropriate ways to feed it to babies. Keep reading as we give you an insight into the possible health benefits of mango for babies with the right age and age-appropriate ways to feed it. [mj-toc] When Can Babies Eat Mango? Most healthy babies can eat ripe mango from around six months when they start eating solids (1). Initially, you can feed small amounts of smooth, lump-free mango puree or mash. Once the baby develops the taste and digestibility for the fruit, you can add mango puree/mash to other foods, such as banana or beetroot puree/mash, to...
Eating nuts during pregnancy may have several health benefits because they are loaded with vitamins, minerals, folic acid, and other nutrients required for the baby’s healthy development. However, women should be cautious about excessive consumption of nuts during pregnancy as some babies may develop allergies. Therefore, if you have a family history of nut allergies, it is recommended to avoid them during pregnancy. However, consult your doctor before making this decision. Read this post to understand whether it is safe to consume nuts during pregnancy, the side effects, and some useful recommendations from experts. [mj-toc]Nutritional Benefits Of Nuts During Pregnancy Nuts contain plenty of important nutrients that are particularly essential during pregnancy. Pregnant women must consume 75 to 100 g protein on a daily basis (1). One ounce of nut contains 2 ounce of protein as per USDA. Here are some facts about nuts (2): Nuts are a rich source of vitamin B and E. Essential minerals such as phosphorous,...
A casserole is a sweet or savory baked dish usually eaten for breakfast or dinner. The dish gets its name from the variety of large, deep vessels, such as pans and bowls, called casseroles used to bake the dish. Usually, casseroles are made with animal or plant-based ingredients based on one’s dietary preferences. However, the dish is customizable, and you can blend several healthy ingredients to make kid-friendly casseroles that are tasty, nutritious, and easy to make. Read on to find some easy-to-make, nutritious, and kid-friendly casserole recipes your child will love to eat. [mj-toc]Nutritious Kid-Friendly Casseroles Here are some simple yet delectable casserole recipes you can bake with your children to help them understand food and its versatility. You may bake these casseroles in ramekins to help in effective portion control. Meat casseroles 1. Broccoli and chicken casserole [caption id="attachment_798485" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] You will need: 1 skinless, boneless chicken breast (cubed) 2 cups broccoli (finely chopped) 1...