Who would want to part with their favorite Hershey bars? A survey even mentioned that mothers who ate chocolate every day when expecting gave birth to happier and cheerful babies. However, your habit of binging on chocolate chips, cookies, or candies might have to be limited at this time, keeping in mind your baby’s wellbeing.
Is craving chocolate a sign of pregnancy?
Although food cravings or aversions are common in pregnancy, having a sudden urge to eat chocolates does not mean that you have conceived.
According to some old wives’ tales, craving chocolates is associated with gender prediction myths and might indicate a girl-in-waiting.
Is it safe to have chocolate when pregnant?
Chocolate during pregnancy is considered safe when eaten in moderation, say about 3 to 4 pieces daily. A lot of it may add to your carbs leading to excessive weight gain since they are high in calories. It could also give you a feeling of fullness, lessening your urge to eat other nutritious food.
How much chocolate is safe when pregnant?
According to “The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists”, pregnant women should limit their caffeine intake to less than 200 mg daily. Here is a chart to give you an idea of how much caffeine your favorite chocolaty foods have:
Caffeine in Chocolates
| Brand | Serving | Caffeine content |
|---|---|---|
| Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar | 1.5 oz | 9 mg |
| Dagoba New Moon 74% Dark Chocolate | 1.5 oz | 34 mg |
| Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate Bar | 1 oz | 15 mg |
| Scharffen Berger 82% Extra Dark Chocolate Bar | 1.5 oz | 42 mg |
| Starbucks hot chocolate | 8 oz | 15 mg |
| Mocha | 12 oz | 152 mg |
| Mousse | 3.2 oz | 15 mg |
If you are having coffee or other caffeinated foods, ensure to cut down on chocolate bars and drink hot chocolates to stay under your limit.
FAQs
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Does chocolate reduce the risks of preeclampsia?
A study found that women who ate more chocolates in their first and third trimesters were at a reduced risk of preeclampsia and high blood pressure in the first three months. However, there is a lack of firm evidence for this, and more research is warranted.
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Can chocolates cause heartburn?
Chocolates are known to be a trigger food for heartburn in some people, which may upset your stomach if not eaten in moderation. Eating chocolates on an empty stomach should be avoided.
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Does dark chocolate help in fetal growth?
Dark chocolates are high in flavonoids and minerals like zinc, potassium, iron, and selenium. Some inconclusive studies with insufficient data show the positive effects of high and low chocolates in fostering fetal growth, both high and low in flavanol.
When to avoid chocolates during pregnancy?
You should avoid chocolates if you have gestational diabetes or trouble managing your weight.
References:
- https://www.babycenter.com/pregnancy/diet-and-fitness/is-it-safe-to-eat-a-lot-of-chocolate-during-pregnancy_1245156
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/306103
Dr. Mashiach has completed his MD at the Sackler School of Medicine, TAU; specialization in gynecology at the Lis Maternity and Women’s Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center; fellowship in Endoscopy at the Polyclinique de I’Hotel-Dieu, Universite d’Auvergne, Clermont, France.
He is a Senior Physician, Director of the Department of Gynecology, which provides routine and preventative care services to its patients and a full range of gynecological surgical procedures for adequately managing its patients with benign gynecologic disorders.
He offers advanced care in all gynecological subspecialties such as Urogynecology, Colposcopy, Fetal Loss Clinic, and Post Menopausal Clinic.
