Is it good for pregnant women to eat chocolate?
Disease description:
My wife is pregnant and really wants to eat chocolate, but we don't know whether chocolate has any effect during pregnancy. Can she eat it? Doctor, may I ask?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yu Yongchao
It is beneficial for pregnant women to consume chocolate in moderation, but excessive consumption may have adverse effects.
Chocolate contains abundant sugars and fats, which can quickly provide energy to pregnant women and help alleviate fatigue and weakness during pregnancy. At the same time, chocolate contains various nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, and multiple vitamins. Moderate consumption can help pregnant women supplement these nutrients. Some pregnant women may experience loss of appetite during pregnancy, and moderate chocolate consumption can stimulate the taste buds and enhance appetite.
However, chocolate contains high levels of sugar, and excessive consumption may cause elevated blood sugar levels in pregnant women, increasing the risk of gestational diabetes. Moreover, chocolate is high in calories, and excessive intake may lead to rapid weight gain, increasing the difficulty of childbirth and the recovery time after delivery. In addition, overconsumption of chocolate may cause discomforts such as acid reflux, abdominal bloating, and vomiting in pregnant women.
It is recommended that pregnant women consume no more than a small piece at a time and control the frequency of consumption. If pregnant women desire chocolate, they should choose products that are low in sugar, low in caffeine, and of reliable quality to minimize adverse effects.
