“Can I eat beer cheese while I’m pregnant?” It’s a question that doesn’t have a straightforward answer.
Beer cheese? Sure, it sounds like an exciting match but for a pregnant mom, it’s definitely going to come up with some concerns.
After all, it has the word ‘beer’ in it, right? Well, this inviting platter of flavor brings together cheese – often a mix of savory cheddar and Swiss, and yes – a dash of beer for added zest.
But is it safe for a pregnant woman? We’ll explore it in this article. We’ll also delve into some alternatives and cheeses to avoid while pregnant.
What is beer cheese?
Beer cheese is made of cheeses, typically a blend of cheddar or processed cheeses mixed together with beer. But that’s not all, It often also includes other ingredients such as garlic, mustard and other spices.
The result is usually creamy and tasty! You’re probably wondering where it started. Well it originated from Kentucky, in the USA. And today, it’s well liked all over the world.
And there’s more to beer cheese than just being a delicious dip. It’s versatility! You can enjoy it with an array of foods – think crackers, chips, pretzels, or even raw veggies. Some people even serve it with burgers.
Is beer cheese safe to eat while pregnant?
Yes, you can go ahead and eat beer cheese while pregnant, but should be very little. The safety of this cheese during pregnancy rides on two essential factors: alcohol content and pasteurization.
It contains a small amount of beer, which contains alcohol, but the amount you find in it is really tiny.
In fact, some folks argue that you might find more alcohol in mouthwash than in beer cheese. Also when used in cooking, the alcohol usually evaporates and leaves behind just the flavor.
On the other hand, beer cheese has skimmed milk, which makes it safer, because the pasteurization process kills all the potential bacteria coming with the raw milk.
So, if it is something you really love or mostly craving, then the good news is that you probably don’t need to give it up completely while you’re pregnant.
But just like all other foods and products you’re taking in now, moderation is the key.
Besides, all pregnancies aren’t the same. It’s always the best idea to chat with your healthcare provider about what foods are safe for you during this special time.
Does beer cheese have health benefits for pregnant pomen?
Crunchy pretzels dipped in beer cheese may sound fantastic, but how does it stand on the health chart for pregnant women?
When it comes to nutrition during pregnancy, what you eat matters just as much as how good it tastes!
It’s no doubt that cheese, as the main ingredient in this treat offers some health benefits which includes;
- The calcium content supports baby’s bone health
- Helps baby’s nervous system development
- Healthy growth of the baby
- Reduce risk of preterm births and preeclampsia.
Indeed cheese is nutritious, but it can be very high in fats. Eating too much may cause you to put on weight. Let’s examine the side effects of overeating it.
Are there potential side effects of beer cheese during pregnancy?
Even though there isn’t any safe amount of alcohol to drink in pregnancy, too much of it can expose your baby to alcohol. Some effects of bingeing on this include
- Miscarriage
- Stillbirth
- Fatal alcohol syndrome (in very extreme cases)
- Weight gain
- Gestational diabetes
Lastly, some cheeses used in beer cheese might be soft and unpasteurized, which could carry bacteria harmful to the expecting mom and the baby. Make sure you get yours from a trusted source though.
What are some Beer cheese alternatives for pregnant women?
There are lots of delicious alternatives that are just as tasty and are safer for you and your little one.
1. Regular Cheese Spreads
If you’re in love with the cheesy part of beer cheese, why not go for regular cheese spreads? Look for ones made from pasteurized milk to keep things super safe.
2. Hummus
Hummus is a lip-smacking spread or dip that’s made from chickpeas. It has high fiber plus plenty nutrients. It comes in a variety of flavors too, so there’s something for everyone
3. Guacamole
Guacamole, made from ripe, creamy avocados, is a fantastic substitute for beer cheese. Comes with a lot of healthy fats and vitamins..
4. Salsa
If you’re after something with a bit of zip, salsa could be the answer. It’s cramped with tomatoes, making it very rich in Vitamin C or ascorbic acid.
5. Yogurt Dip
Yogurt dips are great, too. Go ahead and mix it favourite herb to make up for a refreshing, healthy dip.
You can also make customized beer cheese at home by substituting the beer with white grape juice, ginger ale or even white wine.
What cheeses should be avoided during pregnancy?
Some cheeses, especially soft ones can potentially carry pathogens like Listeria and cause food poisoning. So it’s important to reduce their intake or if possibly, get rid of them at this time. They include:
- Roquefort
- Gorgonzola
- Brie
- Camembert
- Chevre
- Queso fresco
You don’t have to eat them because they usually carry pathogens like Listeria.
Also Read: Can Pregnant women eat Vodka sauce?
Final verdict
While beer cheese may not be the healthiest choice, having a small portion every once in a while should be okay for most expecting moms.
The alcohol content in it is minimal, and most of it evaporates during cooking. However, since your pregnancy is just as unique as any other, it’s always best to constantly talk with your doctor.
Remember, you can easily customize your beer cheese to suit your health needs or opt for other delicious, safer alternatives, so there’s no way you’d miss out on tasty treats during your pregnancy journey.
References:
The Bump Forum (Beer Cheese) , The Spruce Eats (What is beer cheese?)
