Can pregnant women eat zongzi (sticky rice dumplings)?
Nov 29, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Zongzi, as a traditional food, is typically made of glutinous rice, beans, meat, salted egg yolk, and wrapped in bamboo leaves. It contains abundant carbohydrates, protein, fat, as well as various vitamins and minerals, which can provide pregnant women with the energy and nutrients needed by their bodies. Moderate consumption of zongzi can meet the nutritional needs during pregnancy and help the normal development of the fetus.
Generally speaking, pregnant women can eat zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings), but only in moderation. The detailed explanation is as follows:
As a traditional food, zongzi is typically made from glutinous rice, beans, meat, salted duck egg yolk, and wrapped in bamboo leaves. It contains abundant carbohydrates, proteins, fats, as well as various vitamins and minerals, which can provide pregnant women with necessary energy and nutrients. Eating a moderate amount of zongzi can help meet nutritional needs during pregnancy and support normal fetal development. However, the glutinous rice used in zongzi is sticky and excessive consumption may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as indigestion and abdominal distension. Furthermore, zongzi often contains relatively high levels of fat and sugar, and long-term excessive intake may lead to rapid weight gain in pregnant women, increasing the risks of gestational diabetes, hypertension, and other complications. Therefore, pregnant women should consume zongzi in moderation.
Pregnant women should maintain a balanced diet and consume more foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to meet the nutritional needs of both themselves and the developing fetus.
