Can pregnant women drink cold fermented rice wine?

Generally, it is not recommended for pregnant women to consume cold fermented glutinous rice wine (bingjiuniang), as it may cause blood sugar fluctuations and adverse effects on the fetus. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Cold fermented rice wine is considered a cold-natured food, made from fermented glutinous rice and yeast starter. It contains a certain amount of sugar and alcohol. The sugar content in this beverage may lead to fluctuations in blood glucose levels, making it difficult to maintain stable blood sugar control during pregnancy. Additionally, due to its cold nature and potential irritants, it may stimulate the gastrointestinal tract of pregnant women, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. In severe cases, it might even trigger uterine contractions, increasing the risk of threatened miscarriage.

Moreover, although the alcohol concentration in fermented rice wine is relatively low, consumption by pregnant women can still negatively affect fetal nervous system development. Alcohol can cross the placenta and be absorbed by the fetus, thereby interfering with normal growth and development.

Pregnant women should avoid consuming cold fermented rice wine during pregnancy. Instead, they should opt for mild, easily digestible foods such as noodles or millet porridge to reduce gastrointestinal burden.