John Miller
Mushrooms are a popular ingredient in many dishes, but can you eat them during pregnancy? While most mushrooms are safe for consumption during pregnancy, some varieties can be harmful to the mother and the unborn baby. In this article, we will explore the different types of mushrooms, their effects on pregnancy, and the precautions to take when consuming mushrooms while pregnant. We will also discuss the nutritional benefits of mushrooms and how they can positively impact the health of expecting mothers and their babies. So, are mushrooms ok during pregnancy? Let's find out.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nutritional benefits | Low in dietary fats and calories, rich in B vitamins, selenium, vitamin D, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, vitamin B12, riboflavin, thiamine, pantothenic acid, phosphorus, copper, niacin, folate, fibre, protein, antioxidants, and minerals. |
| Safe to consume during pregnancy | Culinary mushrooms such as shiitake, portobello, oyster, maitake, chestnut, crimini, white button, and straw mushrooms are generally safe to consume. Medicinal mushrooms such as chaga, turkey tail, lion's mane, reishi, and Cordyceps are also safe. |
| Unsafe to consume during pregnancy | Wild or foraged mushrooms, including magic mushrooms, should be avoided due to their hallucinogenic and toxic properties. Mushrooms with high mercury content, such as chanterelles or shiitake mushrooms, should be consumed in moderation. |
| Health benefits during pregnancy | May help treat gestational diabetes, boost the immune system, elevate haemoglobin levels, aid in digestion, and reduce the risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension and macrosomia. |
| Lack of research | Studies on the effects of mushroom consumption during pregnancy are limited, and more research is needed, especially on the safety of magic mushrooms during pregnancy. |
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What You'll Learn
Safe mushrooms to eat during pregnancy
While mushrooms are generally considered safe to eat during pregnancy, it's important to choose the safest types. Culinary mushrooms, such as shiitake, portobello, oyster, maitake, chestnut, crimini, and white button mushrooms, are generally safe to consume. These mushrooms are commonly grown for culinary purposes but also grow in the wild. Therefore, it is best to only eat labeled culinary mushrooms obtained from reliable sources.
Oyster mushrooms are slightly higher in calories, protein, and dietary fiber than other types, but they are a poor source of selenium. Culinary mushrooms are an excellent source of B vitamins, selenium, and potentially vitamin D if exposed to UV light. A study among 1,162 pregnant women found that consuming 100 grams of white button mushrooms daily from pre-pregnancy up to 20 weeks of pregnancy reduced high blood pressure and the risks of developing gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.
Cremini mushrooms, also known as Baby Bellas, typically have a dark brown cap and a white stem. They have a rich flavor and are often used in meat and vegetable dishes. Oyster mushrooms have wide, fleshy caps that come in various colors, including gray, tan, white, and yellow. Portobello mushrooms have enormous caps that make them easy to cook, and they are often used as a meat alternative.
Medicinal mushrooms, such as chaga, turkey tail, lion's mane, reishi, and Cordyceps, are generally safe for consumption during pregnancy. These mushrooms contain beneficial compounds like dietary fibers, lectins, polysaccharides, and proteins. Research suggests that they may have anti-diabetic properties, which can decrease the risk of gestational diabetes. However, more research is needed to determine the appropriate dosage for preventing and treating this condition.
It is important to avoid magic mushrooms during pregnancy due to their hallucinogenic and toxic properties. Magic mushrooms contain the psychoactive compound psilocybin, which can cause hallucinations, muscle weakness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and ataxia. They have not been studied during pregnancy, so more research is needed. Wild or foraged mushrooms should also be avoided during pregnancy, as mushroom poisoning can occur from misidentifying certain mushrooms and accidentally consuming poisonous or psychoactive species.
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Mushrooms to avoid during pregnancy
While mushrooms are generally considered safe to eat during pregnancy, there are some types that pregnant women should avoid to protect the health of both mother and baby.
Wild or Foraged Mushrooms
Mushroom poisoning is often associated with foraging. Even experienced foragers can misidentify certain mushrooms and accidentally consume poisonous or psychoactive species. Poisonous mushrooms can cause gastrointestinal symptoms, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, muscle weakness, euphoria, and even death in severe cases. Therefore, it is best to avoid wild or foraged mushrooms and only eat labelled culinary mushrooms obtained from reliable sources.
Magic Mushrooms
Magic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms, contain the psychoactive compounds psilocybin and psilocin, which induce hallucinations, delusions, and panic attacks. They may also cause adverse psychological effects like anxiety, confusion, paranoia, and impaired judgment. While the effects of magic mushrooms on pregnant women are unknown, it is best to avoid them during pregnancy for safety.
Raw Mushrooms
Pregnant women should avoid eating raw mushrooms as they are hard to digest. Always cook mushrooms thoroughly to make them safer and easier to absorb.
Spoiled Mushrooms
Pregnant women should also avoid eating spoiled mushrooms, as they may be toxic or contain harmful bacteria.
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Nutritional benefits of mushrooms
Mushrooms are a good source of nutrition and have many health benefits. They are a type of fungus, sometimes considered a vegetable, and are native to North America and Europe. They are known for their delicate flavour and meaty texture.
Mushrooms are low in dietary fats and calories, but rich in B vitamins and minerals. They also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Oyster mushrooms, for example, are slightly higher in calories, protein, and dietary fibre than other types. Culinary mushrooms are an excellent source of B vitamins, selenium, and vitamin D if exposed to UV light.
Medicinal mushrooms, such as chaga, turkey tail, lion’s mane, reishi, and Cordyceps, are generally safe for consumption and contain beneficial compounds like dietary fibres, lectins, polysaccharides, and proteins. Research suggests that these mushrooms may have anti-diabetic properties, reducing the risk of gestational diabetes.
Mushrooms are the only natural source of vitamin D in the produce aisle, which is important for bone and immune health. They are also a good source of potassium, which is known for reducing the negative impact of sodium on the body and helping to lower blood pressure.
Overall, mushrooms are a nutritious food that can be safely consumed during pregnancy, although it is important to choose the safest types and avoid wild or foraged mushrooms, as well as "magic mushrooms," which can cause hallucinations and are toxic.
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Risks of eating mushrooms during pregnancy
While mushrooms are generally considered safe to eat during pregnancy, there are certain types of mushrooms that should be avoided.
Wild or foraged mushrooms
Mushroom poisoning is most often associated with foraging. Inexperienced foragers may misidentify certain mushrooms and accidentally consume poisonous or psychoactive species. Poisonous mushrooms can cause gastrointestinal symptoms that usually resolve in 24 hours, but in some cases, they can lead to hospitalization or even death. Therefore, it is best to avoid wild or foraged mushrooms during pregnancy and only consume labelled culinary mushrooms obtained from reliable sources.
Magic mushrooms
Magic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms, contain the psychoactive compounds psilocin and psilocybin, which induce hallucinations and alter the user's perception of themselves, space, and time. They have also been reported to cause panic attacks and, in combination with other drugs, have resulted in fatalities. While there is no evidence that magic mushrooms increase the chance of miscarriage or birth defects, the effects of consuming these mushrooms during pregnancy have not been studied. Therefore, it is recommended that pregnant women avoid consuming them.
Raw mushrooms
Raw mushrooms are hard to digest and can increase the risk of bacterial and fungal infections. It is recommended to cook mushrooms thoroughly before consumption to make them safer and easier to absorb.
Pre-processed or packaged mushroom products
It is recommended to limit or avoid pre-processed or packaged mushroom products during pregnancy. Fresh mushrooms from reputable sources are generally considered safer.
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Preparing mushrooms for consumption during pregnancy
Mushrooms are a nutritious and safe addition to a pregnancy diet. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals and have anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is important to choose the right types of mushrooms and prepare them correctly to avoid any potential health risks. Here are some tips for preparing mushrooms for consumption during pregnancy:
Choose the Right Mushrooms
Select culinary mushrooms such as shiitake, portobello, oyster, maitake, chestnut, cremini (also known as baby bellas), and white button mushrooms. These mushrooms are generally considered safe for consumption during pregnancy. You can also opt for medicinal mushrooms like chaga, turkey tail, lion's mane, reishi, and Cordyceps. Avoid wild or foraged mushrooms as they may be poisonous or psychoactive. Stick to labelled mushrooms sold for culinary purposes and obtain them from reliable sources.
Clean and Wash the Mushrooms
Place the mushrooms in a bowl of water and gently wash them to remove any dirt or microbes. Proper cleaning is essential to prevent foodborne illnesses caused by bacteria or other pathogens. After washing, pat the mushrooms dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Cook Thoroughly
Cooking mushrooms thoroughly is crucial during pregnancy. Undercooked mushrooms may cause dermatitis or other infections. Follow food safety guidelines and maintain a minimum temperature of 140°F (60°C) for cooked mushroom dishes. Be especially careful with shiitake mushrooms, as consuming them raw can cause a painful skin eruption due to the presence of lentinan, a polysaccharide that decomposes when cooked.
Store Appropriately
Store mushrooms appropriately to reduce the risk of bacterial growth and foodborne illnesses. Follow food storage guidelines to ensure the mushrooms remain safe for consumption.
Consult a Healthcare Professional
While mushrooms are generally safe during pregnancy, it is always a good idea to consult your healthcare provider or obstetrician. They can guide you on the safest types of mushrooms and the appropriate quantities for your specific needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, most edible mushrooms are safe and nutritious for pregnant women. They are a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and can provide essential nutrients to the developing baby.
Pregnant women should avoid raw mushrooms, wild mushrooms, and toxic or hallucinogenic mushrooms, such as psilocybin mushrooms, also known as magic mushrooms. It is also recommended to avoid medicinal mushrooms unless advised by a doctor.
Mushrooms offer various nutritional benefits for pregnant women, including antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin D, potassium, and folate. Studies suggest that consuming mushrooms during pregnancy may reduce the risk of high blood pressure, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and high newborn birth weight.
