Pregnant ladies are usually concerned about toxoplasmosis, a bacteria found in soil. Therefore, asking about the safety of food from the soil is always at the top of their questions to their doctors; the same goes for truffles. So, is it safe to eat a truffle while pregnant?
This article on Hipregnancy discusses whether you can eat truffle during pregnancy. If you are a fan of truffles and want to know more about their safety for pregnancy, read this article to the end to learn the answer to your questions about eating truffle while pregnant.
What is truffle?
Truffle is the fruiting body of a fungus, growing underground at the roots of some trees known as truffle plant. Truffles are firmly embedded in the earth at a depth of 20 cm, and extracting them needs dogs’ help.
Truffle has different varieties with various flavors, usage, and price; however, most of them fall into one of the following categories;
- White truffles
White truffles are native to northern Italy, rare and have an intense flavor. These types of truffles are usually used raw and in small quantities. For instance, they can be shaved over dishes like pasta.
- Black trufflee
Black truffles are less expensive than white varieties and also less aromatic. Since they are less expensive, most people prefer this type for home cooking. Black truffles can be used in compound butter, sauces, risotto, etc.
Now is the time to learn about the safety of truffle while pregnant. If ready, Let’s continue.
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Can you eat truffle when pregnant?
You may wonder, “Are truffles safe while pregnant?” Here is the answer to your question. Truffles can be consumed during pregnancy if cleaned properly before eating. Since truffles come from the ground, they might be contaminated with toxoplasmosis.
Toxoplasmosis may cause miscarriage, birth defects, stillbirth, or problems after the baby has been born, like liver, eyes, and brain damage.
Eating cooked truffle in pregnancy is best, but if you want to consume raw ones, you should wash them thoroughly. It is recommended to clean truffles under running water for at least 30 seconds instead of soaking them to make truffles safe for pregnancy.
Ensure to cut damaged and soiled parts of the truffle while pregnant before washing them; this can minimize the chance of toxoplasmosis. Do you know how truffles can benefit you during pregnancy? If not, keep reading the following part, which discusses the benefits of truffle during pregnancy.
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Benefits of truffle while pregnant
Truffles are great sources of protein, carbs, fiber, vitamin C, iron, magnesium, sodium, calcium, folate, phosphorus, and antioxidant. The followings are the top benefits of eating truffle while pregnant, including;
- Preventing birth defects
- Lowering the risk of anemia
- Protecting the body against cell damage
- Helping fight free radicals
- Killing cancer cells
- Reducing inflammation
- Decreasing the growth of bacteria
- Promoting overall health and immunity
Remember that you should not overeat truffle during pregnancy as having it in excess can change it into a harmful option for pregnancy. Moreover, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider before including truffles in your pregnancy diet to ensure nothing will harm you and the growing fetus.
Truffle oil while pregnant
One of the common queries about truffles is: “Can I eat truffle oil when pregnant?” The short answer to the question is yes but let’s discuss it in detail.
Truffle oil is a combination of olive oil and raw truffles. This oil is pasteurized and safe to consume while pregnant. It should be eaten before an expiry date and kept refrigerated due to the short shelf life of real truffles.
This oil can flavor dishes like pasta, salads, potatoes, pizza, and so on. If you are sensitive to the strong flavor of truffle oil, you can use it in limited amounts, put it aside, and opt for another pregnancy-safe oil.
Last but not least, check the ingredient list on the product label to ensure the safety of the product you are purchasing, as most truffle oils contain added preservatives.
Conclusion
Pregnant women should know what they consume to support a healthy pregnancy. One of the things they should be cautious about is truffle. Consuming truffle while pregnant is safe, but it should be washed properly and consumed in moderated amounts.
Those with sensitivity to the strong flavor of truffles should limit their intake or omit this option from their diet.
What do you think about eating truffle during pregnancy? Is there any point you want to mention? If yes, do share your ideas and points with us via comment.
The Hipregnancy team is always ready to read your comments!
FAQs
1. Can pregnant women eat truffle?
You can eat truffles while pregnant if washed properly before using them in your favorite dishes.
2. Is black truffle safe during pregnancy?
Black truffle is safe for pregnant women, but should be taken in moderation and washed thoroughly before consumption.
