Can pregnant women eat soft-shelled turtle?

In general, pregnant women can eat soft-shelled turtles, but it is recommended to consume them in moderation.

Soft-shelled turtles are a high-protein, low-fat food, rich in collagen, various amino acids, and trace elements, which can be beneficial for promoting the health of pregnant women and fetal development. Therefore, pregnant women can consume soft-shelled turtles. However, because soft-shelled turtles are considered to have a cold nature in traditional Chinese medicine, excessive consumption may cause indigestion or gastrointestinal discomfort. Particularly for pregnant women with a cold body constitution or weak spleen and stomach, overconsumption may lead to problems such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. Therefore, it is recommended to control the intake.

Additionally, it is advisable to choose soft-shelled turtles from reliable sources with guaranteed quality, and ensure they are thoroughly cooked; raw or undercooked consumption should be avoided. Moreover, during pregnancy, women should follow the principle of balanced diet, consuming more fresh vegetables, fruits, and high-quality protein to meet the nutritional needs of pregnancy and promote healthy fetal development. Those allergic to soft-shelled turtles should avoid eating them.

In daily life, it is recommended that pregnant women consume soft-shelled turtles in moderation while maintaining good lifestyle habits and paying attention to their physical and mental well-being.