Can You Eat Custard During Pregnancy? – Find Out If It’s Safe or Not!

Yes, custard is perfectly safe during pregnancy and offers great benefits like calcium for strong bones. It’s rich in protein, which supports fetal growth. Enjoying custard can boost energy levels. It’s a delicious treat with essential nutrients.

Key benefits of eating custard while pregnant:

Calcium: Rich in calcium to support fetal bone development
Vitamin D: Contains vitamin D, which aids in the absorption of calcium
Protein: Provides protein, essential for fetal growth and maternal health
Energy: Offers carbohydrates that can provide a quick energy boost
Digestion: May assist in easing digestion due to its smooth texture

Safety Tip: If you’re wondering if a food is safe to eat while pregnant, it’s best to consult with an OB-GYN or registered dietician who specializes in pregnancy. “Most foods are safe to consume during pregnancy and it’s smart to enjoy a variety of foods to get the most nutrients,” says Largeman-Roth.

Nutritional Benefits of Custard During Pregnancy

While Custard is low in fiber, it is rich in calcium and provides essential nutrients for bone health.

What’s more, it supports energy levels with its carbohydrate content.

Custard is nutrient-dense, making it an ideal comfort food for pregnancy. Below is a breakdown of its key nutritional values:

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Calories	122 kcal
Carbohydrates	19.9 g
Protein	3.5 g
Fat	3.6 g
Calcium	74 mg
Sodium	107 mg
Vitamin A	210 IU
Vitamin D	1.2 µg
Iron	0.1 mg

How Much Custard is Safe to Eat During Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, it’s advisable to consume custard in moderation, as part of a balanced diet. A recommended intake could be about 100-200 grams per serving, a few times a week. This amount can be beneficial when incorporated into the diet during the second and third trimesters, when calorie needs increase. Custard can be a healthy choice if made with pasteurized ingredients and consumed in limited quantities to avoid excessive sugar and fat intake.

Possible Side Effects of Eating Custard During Pregnancy

While Custard are generally safe, there are some risks to keep in mind:

High Sugar Intake: Consuming too much custard can lead to excessive sugar intake, increasing the risk of gestational diabetes.
Raw Eggs: Homemade custard using raw eggs might pose a risk of salmonella, harmful to both mother and baby.
Lactose Intolerance: If you’re lactose intolerant, custard can cause digestive issues like bloating and discomfort.
Calorie Overload: Custard is calorie-dense, which can contribute to unhealthy weight gain during pregnancy.
Artificial Additives: Some store-bought custards contain additives and preservatives that might not be safe during pregnancy.

Good Alternatives to Custard During Pregnancy

Custard is a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, but not everyone may want to consume it. Whether you’re looking for lower-sugar options or variety in your diet, here are some reasons why you may need an alternative:

Prefer different taste or texture
Need lower-sugar due to health reasons
Desire more variety in meals
Experience lactose intolerance symptoms

Pregnancy-Friendly Alternatives

Here are some nutrient-dense alternatives that provide fiber, iron, and essential vitamins without excess sugar or lactose concerns:

Alternative	Key Benefits	Best Way to Eat It
Greek Yogurt	High in protein, probiotics	Mix with fruit
Chia Pudding	Rich in omega-3, fiber	Soak in milk overnight
Oatmeal	High in fiber, iron	Cook with milk or water
Almond Milk	Low sugar, vitamin E	Use in smoothies
Fruit Salad	Vitamins, antioxidants	Fresh or with yogurt

If you’re avoiding Custard due to gestational diabetes or lactose intolerance, opt for Chia Pudding or Almond Milk, as they have a lower glycemic index and better digestibility and provide similar benefits.

Choose the one that best suits your needs, and enjoy a balanced diet for you and your baby!

Learn about other food items, whether they are safe or not:

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I eat custard during the first trimester of pregnancy?

Yes, you can enjoy custard during the first trimester. Ensure it’s made with pasteurized eggs and milk to avoid any risk of harmful bacteria. Custard can be a comforting treat and a good source of calcium and protein, supporting your early pregnancy nutritional needs.

2. Can I eat custard during the second trimester of pregnancy?

Eating custard in the second trimester is safe. Choose custard made with pasteurized ingredients to prevent exposure to bacteria like Salmonella. It’s a delicious way to get essential nutrients like calcium, which is vital for your baby’s developing bones and teeth.

3. Can I eat custard during the third trimester of pregnancy?

Custard is safe to consume during the third trimester, provided it’s made with pasteurized eggs and milk. This ensures you’re protecting yourself and your baby from any potential bacteria. Enjoy it as a sweet treat and a source of calcium, supporting your body’s increased needs at this stage.

4. What are some common myths about custard and pregnancy?

A common myth is that custard can harm your baby. This isn’t true as long as it’s made with pasteurized eggs and milk. Another myth is that custard causes excessive weight gain. Moderation is key, and custard can fit into a balanced pregnancy diet.

5. Is custard healthy for pregnancy?

Custard can be a healthy part of a pregnancy diet if made with pasteurized ingredients. It’s a good source of calcium and vitamin D, supporting bone health for you and your baby. Enjoy custard in moderation as part of a varied diet to reap its nutritional benefits.

6. What types of custard are safe during pregnancy?

Safe types of custard during pregnancy include those made with pasteurized eggs and milk. Avoid homemade custard with raw or unpasteurized ingredients. Store-bought custard usually uses pasteurized products, making it a safer choice. Always check labels and ingredients for safety.

7. Can you eat raw custard while pregnant?

It’s best to avoid raw custard during pregnancy. Raw custard might contain unpasteurized eggs, posing a risk of Salmonella. Always opt for custard made with pasteurized ingredients to ensure safety for you and your baby. Cooked custard is a safer, delicious option during pregnancy.

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This website contains general information about conception, pregnancy, pregnancy products and parenting. The information is not complete or comprehensive. You should not rely on the information on this website as an alternative to medical advice from your doctor or healthcare provider. Nothing contained on this web site should be construed nor is intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. Should you have any healthcare related questions, please call or see your physician or other qualified healthcare provider promptly.