Can Pregnant Women Eat Maggi?

Food cravings can happen to women at any time during their pregnancy period. When it comes to pregnancy cravings, the sky could be the limit. Generally speaking, food cravings are likely to start in the first trimester because of hormone fluctuations. Then, peaks in the second trimester before declining its limit in the third trimester.

Have you ever wondered what makes the Maggi the most desired food during pregnancy?

Other than the reason that it can be prepared quickly, its sour taste, its texture, crunchiness, and the thought of having it when it’s hot and sipping till the last drop makes the Maggi most desired food.

During pregnancy, consuming well-balanced healthy food plays a crucial role in supporting the development of the growing fetus. However, sometimes you might crave such MSG (monosodium glutamate) foods and wonder whether can pregnant women eat Maggi.

In this blog, let’s find out the nutritional values and potential risks of Maggi when consumed during pregnancy.

Can Pregnant Women Eat Maggi?

Yes, pregnant women can eat Maggi, but in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. Maggi in pregnancy can be a quick and comforting choice, but it contains MSG, high sodium, and preservatives, which may not be ideal for pregnancy if consumed frequently.

What is MSG?

MSG, monosodium glutamate is a food additive, which is used in many foods to enhance their flavour and taste. Since MSG is prepared by natural fermentation processes like yoghurt, beer, and vinegar, it is safe for expectant mothers to consume MSG-based foods. Maggi is one such food that is produced based on MSG.

However, Maggi noodles may not be recommended for every expectant mother. If you have undergone medical issues such as headaches, chest pain, heartburn, or nausea when consumed in the past. It is always suggested to have a consultation with your physician before consuming Maggi if you are pregnant.

Other Foods That Contain MSG

Other than Maggi, certain foods are prepared based on monosodium glutamate (MSG). They include:

• Canned goods
• Packeted chips
• Soy sauce
• Salad dressing
• Dips
• Premade gravy and premixes
• Seasoned salt

Side Effects of Eating Maggi During Pregnancy

Whether it’s pouring outside, you are on vacation, or in your pregnancy period – the craving to have Maggi is the first thing that comes to everybody’s mind.

Apart from its delicious taste, have you ever wondered about the side effects of eating Maggi during pregnancy? Listed below are some of the common risks and concerns:

Fluid Retention and Hypertension

The presence of excessive sodium in Maggi can result in water retention. This can eventually contribute to the development of discomfort and swelling in pregnant women. The high sodium in Maggi can also lead to certain medical conditions like preeclampsia and gestational hypertension.

Poor Metabolism and Weight Gain

The overconsumption of Maggi during pregnancy can result in gaining unhealthy weight and other health issues. This happens as the noodles contain low fibre and high carbohydrate content, which is not good for metabolism and overall health.

Digestive Issues

As we all know, expectant mothers experience frequent digestive issues. The presence of monosodium glutamate (MSG) in Maggi may not be tolerated by every woman during pregnancy. This results in issues like gas, bloating, upset stomach, or heartburn.

High Cholesterol Levels

The excessive consumption of Maggi noodles can result in developing high cholesterol levels in the body. This is considered to be negatively impacting the health of both the mother and the baby.

Nutritional Value and Calories of Maggi

Maggi noodles are quite popular among people for their taste and convenience in quick preparation. However, it’s suggested to be aware of the nutritional values and calories present in the food before consumption. This helps in maintaining a well-balanced diet for the pregnant woman.

Below is the list of nutritional values and calories that Maggi contains per 100 grams.

How to Make Maggi Healthy During Pregnancy

Even though the consumption of Maggi in pregnancy has numerous negative impacts on the development of the growing fetus, you can find alternative options for these noodles. Alternative options may include consuming less or opting for healthier noodles such as Atta Maggi noodles. Such options may also fulfil your pregnancy cravings along with maintaining a well-balanced diet.

Atta Maggi or whole wheat flour is generally considered to be healthier when compared to regular Maggi. Atta Maggi noodles have a rich source of fibre. This will benefit expectant mothers to digest the noodles without any hassle and prevent constipation issues.

Let’s explore how to prepare healthy Maggi for expectant mothers.

Ingredients:

• Atta Maggi noodles.
• Vegetables like carrots, beans, capsicum, peas, broccoli, mushroom, or sweet corn.
• Proteins like boiled eggs, chicken, paneer, or tofu.

Directions:

1. Boil the Atta Maggi noodles.
2. Place a pan on the stove and add a spoonful of oil.
3. Cook the vegetables and proteins of your choice in the pan with oil when it is heated.
4. Once the vegetables and proteins are stir-fried, add the boiled Atta Maggi noodles.
5. Mix all ingredients together and let them cook for 2 minutes.
6. Now, include Maggi masala and mix well.
7. Let it cook for another 2 minutes.

Note: It's advisable to use homemade masala without MSG for the health of both the mother and the baby.

Healthy Atta Maggi noodles is now ready. It's best enjoyed when served hot.

How to Make Maggi Masala Without MSG at Home

Although Atta Maggi noodles are healthy alternatives to regular noodles, the masala that comes with the pack makes them unhealthy. This is because of the presence of monosodium glutamate (MSG). This can negatively impact the brain development of the fetus, and cause gestational hypertension, or even dizziness.

However, if you are craving Maggi noodles during your pregnancy period, making your own homemade Maggi masala without MSG can be considered. Yet, it is necessary to control the moderation of its consumption.

Here’s a simple, yet enhanced healthier version of homemade Maggi masala without monosodium glutamate (MSG):

Ingredients:

• 1 spoon of garlic powder
• 3/4 spoon of ginger powder
• 1/4 spoon of turmeric powder
• 1/2 spoon of red chilli powder
• 1/4 spoon of black pepper powder
• 1 spoon of garam masala
• A pinch of sugar
• Salt to taste

Directions:

1. Mix all ingredients together.
2. Place it in an airtight container.
3. Homemade Maggi masala is now ready.
4. You can add homemade Maggi masala without MSG when you are cooking Atta Maggi noodles as your tastemaker.

Summary

To answer the woman who is wondering, “Can I eat Maggi in pregnancy?” - Yes, you can eat Maggi during your pregnancy period. Yet, consuming these noodles in moderation plays a crucial role, especially in the second and third trimesters. Understanding the potential risks and negative impacts of consuming Maggi noodles can help ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.

Expectant mothers can reduce the impact of monosodium glutamate (MSG) and empty calories by adding more proteins and vegetables to the recipe. You can also add fruits and dairy products to enhance the taste and meet the nutritional needs of both the mother and the growing baby.

Overall, you can consume Maggi noodles during pregnancy. However, consuming them in moderation along with maintaining a well-balanced diet can ensure a healthy pregnancy.