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

No, licorice isn’t safe during pregnancy and should be avoided. It contains glycyrrhizin, which may increase the risk of preterm birth and hypertension. Instead, choose ginger tea for a healthier pregnancy option.

Key reasons to avoid eating licorice while pregnant:

Blood Pressure: Licorice can cause elevated blood pressure, increasing risks for mother and baby.
Preterm Birth: High licorice consumption is linked to higher chances of preterm labor.
Fetal Brain: Glycyrrhizin in licorice may impact fetal brain development and function.
Hormone Levels: Licorice can alter cortisol levels, affecting pregnancy hormone balance.
Fluid Retention: Excessive licorice can lead to fluid retention, worsening pregnancy swelling.

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.

Risk Profile and Potential Concerns of Licorice Consumption for Pregnant Women

While Licorice provides flavonoids and antioxidants, it carries risks such as glycyrrhizin exposure, which may impact pregnancy.

What’s more, it can increase the risk of high blood pressure.

Licorice contains some beneficial nutrients, but also carries risks that can impact pregnancy health. Below is a breakdown of its key components:

Nutrient / Component	Amount per 100g
Carbohydrates	70g
Sugars	50g
Flavonoids	5g
Antioxidants	3g
Potassium	50mg
Calcium	30mg
Glycyrrhizin ⚠️	2g
Sodium ⚠️	200mg

What Happens If You Accidentally Eat Licorice?

If you’ve accidentally eaten licorice, take these steps:

Stay Calm: Eating a small amount of licorice occasionally is unlikely to cause harm. Don’t panic if it was just a little.
Check Symptoms: Monitor for any unusual symptoms like headaches, swelling, or increased blood pressure.
Limit Further Intake: Avoid eating more licorice to prevent potential complications, especially with high blood pressure concerns.
Consult Your Doctor: If you’re worried or notice symptoms, reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Review Diet: Check other foods and consult your doctor about what to avoid to ensure a safe, balanced pregnancy diet.

Safe Alternatives to Licorice During Pregnancy

Licorice is a widely enjoyed treat known for its distinctive taste and chewy texture. However, consuming large amounts of licorice during pregnancy can pose serious risks, as discussed earlier. If you’re craving Licorice but need a safe alternative, there are plenty of delicious and nutritious options that provide similar satisfaction without health concerns.

Pregnancy-Friendly Alternatives

Here are some flavorful, nutrient-rich alternatives that offer similar textures and satisfying flavors—without the risks of excessive licorice consumption:

Safe Alternative	Why It’s Better?	Best Way to Eat It
Dried Figs	Rich in fiber, safer choice	Enjoy as a sweet snack
Prunes	High in antioxidants, low risk	Add to oatmeal or yogurt
Ginger Candies	Soothes nausea, safer option	Chew when craving sweets
Dates	Natural sweetness, nutrient-dense	Blend into smoothies
Applesauce	Low-calorie, high in fiber	Use as a dessert topping

If you’re craving Licorice but need to avoid it due to pregnancy risks, opt for dried figs, prunes, or ginger candies. These options provide a safer way to enjoy the flavors while ensuring a pregnancy-safe choice.

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 licorice during the first trimester of pregnancy?

No, it’s not safe to eat licorice during the first trimester. Licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which can affect your baby’s development and increase the risk of complications. Avoiding licorice ensures a safer start to your pregnancy.

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

No, you shouldn’t eat licorice in the second trimester. Glycyrrhizin may cause high blood pressure and hormonal imbalances. It’s best to choose other safe snacks.

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

No, licorice is not safe during the third trimester. Consuming licorice may lead to preterm labor and other complications. It’s crucial to avoid it to protect your baby’s health.

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

Some myths suggest licorice helps with morning sickness or cravings, but these aren’t true. Licorice can harm your pregnancy by affecting your baby’s brain development and raising blood pressure.

5. Is licorice healthy for pregnancy?

No, licorice isn’t healthy during pregnancy. Its active compound, glycyrrhizin, can negatively impact both the mother and baby. It’s better to stick to pregnancy-safe foods.

6. What types of licorice are safe during pregnancy?

No types of licorice are safe during pregnancy. Both black and red licorice contain compounds that can cause harm. It’s best to avoid all forms.

7. Can you eat raw licorice while pregnant?

No, you shouldn’t eat raw licorice while pregnant. It contains glycyrrhizin, which can lead to health risks for both you and your baby. Always choose safer alternatives 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.