Nutrition during pregnancy is very important, as the food and drink that a woman consumes directly affect the health and development of her growing baby. With that in mind, a pregnant woman must be aware of the benefits and side effects of all she eats, including Philly cheese steak.
What is Philly Cheese Steak?
Philly cheese steak is a delicious sandwich that is made from thin slices of beef, grilled onions, and melted cheese, among other things. This cheesesteak is a good treat for pregnant women, in that it is tasty. Though it has other benefits, it also raises some concerns for pregnant women.
Can You Eat Philly Cheese Steak When Pregnant?
Pregnant women can eat Philly cheese steak, but it has a high sodium count. Excessive intake of sodium during pregnancy increases the woman’s risk of developing high blood pressure, and this proves to be dangerous for both mother and child.
Again, pregnant women can be at risk of contracting foodborne illnesses like listeria if they consume undercooked meat used in Philly cheese steak.
Therefore, pregnant women must ensure that they fully cook all meats they consume during pregnancy, including those used in Philly cheese steak.
READ ALSO:
- What is Typical South African Food? A Rainbow Nation of Flavors
- What is the Famous Food in Africa? A Celebration of Diversity
- What is African Cuisine Called? A Continent of Flavors
What To Eat In Place Of Philly Cheese Steak When Pregnant
Although Philly cheese steak has a lot to offer in terms of nutritional value, some pregnant women still would not prefer it as a go-to option, especially when they have the urge to splurge on a treat.
So instead, they look for other meals that could closely fill the cheese steak gap but still keep them from eating meat. You could go for a portobello mushroom or eggplant steak. It does the trick well.
A tofu or tempeh steak could also satisfy the urge. You could also try out an open-faced sandwich, especially if you are trying to maintain a steady calorie count.
Roasted portobello mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, and grilled onions can be combined to create a delicious, veggie-based sandwich that is similar to a Philly cheese steak.
You can also try a vegan version of the sandwich, using vegan cheese and plant-based meat alternatives. These options will help you satisfy your craving without worrying about the health of your baby.
What Kind of Cheese Should I Avoid When Pregnant?
Pregnant women can safely enjoy Philly cheese steak because the cheese manufacturers use pasteurized milk, which is beneficial for both them and their babies.
It is important to note that pregnant women should avoid consuming cheeses made from unpasteurized milk. Soft cheeses like brie, camembert, and feta should be avoided as well.
The pasteurization process ensures that the cheese used in Philly cheese steak is safe for consumption during pregnancy. This is because they can contain harmful bacteria like listeria. Again, blue cheeses like Stilton and Roquefort are not safe for pregnant women to eat.
These cheeses contain mould, which can cause miscarriage and even stillbirths. You can just stick to cheeses like cheddar, swiss, and parmesan, as they contain pasteurised milk.
How Should I Eat During Pregnancy?
Aside from some types of cheese, there are other meals that you should not eat when pregnant. These meals include undercooked or even raw meat, fish, and other seafood.
You must also avoid eating fruits and vegetables that are not properly washed. In terms of liquids, it is advised that you completely stay away from alcohol.
These meals could contain harmful bacteria, the most common of which is listeria. It is most often found in the meals mentioned above.
In addition to avoiding certain foods, pregnant women should make sure to eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Also, drink plenty of water and avoid overeating. Pregnant women need to ensure they’re getting enough folic acid, calcium, iron, and other nutrients to support their baby’s development.
READ ALSO:
- Craving Katsu? Learn How To Make Katsu Sauce at Home!
- Does BBQ Sauce Go Bad? (Proceed with Caution!)
- How to Make Garlic Parmesan Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide
Wrapping Up
When considering foods to eat or avoid, it is best to be extra careful, as any decisions taken would impact the baby’s growth and development. This is why it is best to do proper research before trying out meals. You should also consult with your doctors, as they would know even better.