Cheese is one of the most nutritionally complete foods, so its consumption is highly recommended. However, cheese is one of the foods with which doubts arise during pregnancy.
The truth is that it is not necessary to renounce to its benefits during pregnancy, since the important thing is to know which cheeses are suitable for consumption during pregnancy without posing a risk to the health of the pregnant woman and her future baby.
The major health risk associated with cheese consumption is listeriosis. Listeriosis is caused by a bacterium called listeria monocytogenes, which is transmitted through the consumption of certain foods.
In cheeses, listeria can occur in cheeses made from raw, unpasteurized milk. If they have not been subjected to it, they cannot be consumed during pregnancy.
Cheeses that undergo a pasteurization process are those whose milk is subjected to a thermal treatment in which it is heated to a temperature above 75ºC to sterilize it. This minimizes the presence of microorganisms and bacteria.
Some of the types of cheeses that should be avoided during pregnancy are: parmesan, soft ripened cheeses such as brie or camembert, blue cheeses such as Roquefort, cabrales or gorgonzola and fresh cheeses such as feta or cottage cheese made with raw milk.
MANDATORY LABELING
This information must appear on the ingredients label, although, in Spain, cheeses made with raw milk must include this information and also undergo a ripening process of at least 60 days.
That is, if you like cheese, you can enjoy any type that has been made with pasteurized milk without worrying whether it is made from cow’s milk, sheep’s milk, goat’s milk or a mixture.
It is important to note that cheese rinds should not be consumed during pregnancy due to the possible presence of mold or bacteria. Cheese has a rich nutritional value as it contains calcium, minerals and vitamins that are very beneficial. It is better to choose those that are low in sodium and fat.
CHEESE PROPERTIES
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Proteins
- Calcium
- Vitamins A, B9, B12
- Probiotic properties
BENEFITS OF CHEESE FOR THE MOTHER
It is recommended to consume 1,000 milligrams of calcium per day and cheeses are one of the best sources of calcium.
- Source of nutrients
- Bone strengthening
- Benefits for teeth
- Cardiovascular protection
- Energy contribution
