A healthy diet during pregnancy plays an important role in mother's health and fetal development. In which, choosing a suitable protein source is an indispensable factor. Chicken is a popular food, assessed by experts as safe and nutritious if used properly.
Dr. Anju Ghei, Head of Preventive Health at VLCC (India) said: " Chicken is a source of high-quality lean protein, especially necessary during pregnancy. This type of food supports fetal development, especially during rapid growth. At the same time, chicken provides B vitamins, iron and zinc - important micronutrients for immunity and oxygen transport.
In addition, chicken has a lower fat content than many types of red meat, helping pregnant mothers control their weight more effectively. Nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin E and selenium also contribute to enhancing overall health for both mother and baby.
However, food safety factors need to be put first. According to experts, chicken must be completely cooked to eliminate the risk of bacterial infections such as salmonella, the cause of dangerous food poisoning during pregnancy. If processed hygienically, cooked thoroughly and consumed in reasonable quantities, chicken is completely safe for pregnant women.
Processing methods such as boiling, steaming, or grilling are recommended, while greasy fried dishes or pre-processed chicken foods should be limited due to their high salt content and preservatives.
Not only providing nutrition, chicken can also support gut health when combined properly. Experts say that eating chicken with fiber-rich vegetables such as green vegetables, carrots or beans will help improve digestion. At the same time, supplementing fermented foods such as yogurt helps nourish gut beneficial bacteria.
Good gut health helps the body absorb nutrients more effectively and supports the immune system, which is very important throughout pregnancy," she added.
In case of not eating chicken, pregnant women can still choose other protein sources such as eggs, fish, beans or milk and dairy products. Combining a variety of foods will help ensure nutritional needs for both mother and fetus.
In general, chicken is a safe and nutritious food for pregnant women if processed properly. Suitable combination with vegetables and foods rich in beneficial bacteria will bring comprehensive benefits, contributing to protecting the health of both mother and baby.
