Hey there soon-to-be moms! Pregnancy is no doubt a rollercoaster of cravings, food aversions, and endless questions about what's safe for you and your baby. As soon as you reveal that you are pregnant, your life becomes filled with do’s and don’ts, and nuts, especially peanuts, are just one food group that has come under fire. 

Can You Eat Peanuts While Pregnant?

The short answer to this question is yes, so long as you do not have a nut allergy. 

The confusion around whether you can eat peanuts or not stems from the American Academy of Pediatrics’s advice published in 2000. This advice told allergy-prone mums to avoid peanuts and other nuts during their pregnancy as it was believed that this would help to prevent their baby from developing a nut allergy. Over time, this warning was extended to include other common food allergens, including cow’s milk, eggs, and fish, and was even promoted to breastfeeding mothers after they had given birth. 

Eventually, more research was conducted on the subject, and ultimately, the advice was revoked. In fact, the incidence of food allergies in children actually increased while mothers were advised to stay away from nuts, dairy, eggs, and fish. 

Today, experts agree that pregnant mothers do not need to avoid allergic foods and, if anything, including them in their diet may be beneficial. One recent study conducted in 2014 found that non-allergic mothers who ate peanuts and tree nuts five times a week or more were less likely to have a baby with a nut allergy, prompting new thinking that introducing infants to foods early may help to build a tolerance to them. 

Who Should Avoid Peanuts During Pregnancy?

Of course, if you have a food allergy to nuts, peanuts, or any other food, you must continue to avoid those foods during pregnancy.  It is also recommended that women with a strong family or personal history of allergies speak to their doctor or allergist to determine if their child may be high-risk. 

Are There Any Nuts People Should Avoid During Pregnancy?

So what about the rest of the nuts out there? Fortunately, the majority of nuts are considered safe and even beneficial during pregnancy. But before you start munching into a random bag of trail mix, it's important to know which ones offer specific nutrients crucial for expectant mothers, which is why we've outlined below what nuts you should be prioritizing if you are expecting.

What Are The Best Nuts To Eat During Pregnancy?

Here are five nuts that stand out for their nutritional value during pregnancy.

1. Almonds: Rich in copper, manganese, phosphorous, and vitamin E, almonds play a role in blood sugar regulation, blood pressure maintenance, and digestion.

2. Peanuts: A fantastic source of protein and folate, peanuts support the baby's brain and spine development, along with providing essential minerals like biotin, copper, and manganese.

3. Macadamia Nuts: Apart from their tropical flavor, macadamia nuts offer a variety of vitamins and minerals, including fiber for digestion regulation, blood sugar control, and anti-inflammatory properties.

4. Pistachios: Packed with antioxidants, such as vitamin E, and minerals like zinc, iron, and selenium, pistachios contribute to heart health and overall well-being while providing ample fiber for digestion.

5. Walnuts: Resembling the shape of the brain, walnuts are rich in omega-3s, promoting brain health during pregnancy. They also contain various vitamins and minerals that can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

If you want to further explore the benefits of nuts and dried fruits as excellent pregnancy snacks check out this dedicated article. Alternatively, if you're seeking convenient and tasty pregnancy snack ideas, click here for quick inspiration.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, peanuts and nuts in general are safe for pregnant women to consume. However, we always recommend that you consult with your healthcare provider or a nutritionist to ensure that your nut consumption aligns with your individual health needs and any specific considerations related to your pregnancy. While peanuts are generally nutritious, moderation and awareness of potential risks are key during this important period. We wish you a very healthy, safe and happy pregnancy!