Ice cream, ice cream, how we love ice cream! 😍 And when that pregnancy craving strikes, it can be hard to think about anything else. As an ob/gyn, I often get questions from moms-to-be about whether it’s okay to indulge in soft serve treats like Dairy Queen during pregnancy.
According to the CDC, pasteurized ice cream and soft serve are perfectly safe to eat when you’re expecting. The pasteurization process kills any harmful bacteria, so you can eat it without worry. Dairy Queen uses this process, so their soft serve contains no raw eggs, an ingredient you do want to avoid.
Now, portion control and nutritional value are important things to keep in mind. While an occasional ice cream cone likely won’t hurt, you don’t want to overdo it on the sugar and empty calories.
What About Blizzards and Other Dairy Queen Treats?
Soft serve not your style? No worries — Dairy Queen has plenty of other frozen options to satisfy your pregnancy cravings! 😋 Their signature Blizzards blend soft serve with your choice of candy, cookies, or fruit. They also offer shakes, malts, chilly treats, and chillers.
The safety rules are the same with these as soft serve — if made with pasteurized ice cream and eggs, the risk of illness is very low. I’d suggest avoiding raw cookie dough though, as unbaked eggs may pose a slight risk. Opt for Oreo or M&M mix-ins instead! 👍
Portion size and nutritional value are important factors here too. A small Blizzard with sensible toppings is fine for an occasional treat, but upgraded sizes with multiple mix-ins can quickly push you into unhealthy territory. As your ob/gyn would recommend, ask for a kiddie cone dipped in toppings instead. You’ll get that Blizzard experience in one or two bites! 😉
Here is a list of what pregnant women can eat at Dairy Queen:
- Soft serve ice cream – Stick to a small or kid-sized portion as a treat in moderation.
- Blizzard flavors – Get a mini blizzard and avoid cookie dough add-ins.
- Hamburgers – Ask for your patty to be cooked all the way through.
- Hot dogs – Ensure they are fully cooked.
- Chicken strips – These are safe if fully cooked.
- Fries – Enjoy their regular fries in moderation.
- Salads – Top with grilled chicken for a balanced meal.
- Chili
- Soups
- Chocolate milk – Full of calcium.
- Slushies – A refreshing frozen drink option.
- Smoothies – Made with yogurt and fruit.
Tips for Indulging Your Sweet Tooth Safely
Alright moms-to-be, here are my top tips for satisfying ice cream cravings the healthy way:
- Stick to pasteurized soft serve and ice cream – Unpasteurized dairy is a no-no. 🚫
- Watch your portions – A single scoop cone or small cup is a smart indulgence.
- Split treats or get kiddie sizes – Less is often more!
- Hold the raw cookie dough – Opt for safe baked mix-ins like Oreos instead. 🍪
- Stay hydrated – Balance ice cream with plenty of water. 💦
- Don’t overindulge – An occasional treat, not an everyday one!
Follow this advice and you can absolutely enjoy Dairy Queen in moderation during pregnancy. Just be mindful about what and how much you order. Your ob/gyn (that’s me!) gives you the green light on those ice cream cravings! 👍
The Scoop on Dairy and Pregnancy
Now you may be wondering is dairy safe during pregnancy in general? As an ob/gyn, I’m often asked if moms-to-be should avoid milk, yogurt, cheese, and other dairy products. Let’s scoop out the facts!
According to the NHS, dairy products are an important source of calcium and other nutrients that you and baby need during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The American Pregnancy Association says you should aim for 1000mg of calcium daily from foods like yogurt, milk, and cheese.
Dairy products should always be pasteurized to avoid illness. The Mayo Clinic says soft cheeses like brie, feta, queso fresco, and blue cheeses are fine if made with pasteurized milk. Just check the label or ask your waiter if eating out.
In most cases, dairy in moderation is perfectly safe and healthy during pregnancy. 👍 It provides key nutrients for you and baby’s development. As your ob/gyn, I typically recommend 2-3 servings daily from the dairy group. That may include a glass of milk, yogurt with breakfast, and a bit of cheese.
So keep enjoying your dairy, moms-to-be! From calcium-rich yogurt smoothies to the occasional cheese plate, your pregnancy diet should include a variety of dairy. Just focus on moderation, pasteurization, and nutritional balance. Both you and baby will benefit.
Craving That Oreo Blizzard? Try This Instead!
Cravings during pregnancy can be so hard to resist! Especially a cold, creamy Blizzard spiked with cookies. 😋 But all that sugar and empty calories add up fast.
When that Oreo Blizzard temptation strikes, try this healthier idea instead:
Oreo Greek Yogurt Bark
- Layer plain Greek yogurt with crushed Oreos.
- Freeze until firm, about 2 hours.
- Break off pieces to enjoy!
You’ll get the flavor you crave in a protein-packed snack. The protein and fat help steady your blood sugar levels, keeping energy and cravings in check.
For another smart swap, you can also blend Greek yogurt with milk, banana, peanut butter and cocoa powder. Freeze in popsicle molds for homemade “Blizzard” fudgesicles!
With a few easy recipe tweaks, you can still satisfy those ice cream cravings during pregnancy – in a healthier, more balanced way.
FAQs About Dairy Queen and Pregnancy 🤔
Yes, Dairy Queen’s soft serve is pasteurized so it’s safe during pregnancy
Blizzards are fine as an occasional treat. Skip raw cookie dough and ask for pasteurized egg-based sauces and toppings.
Limit caffeinated soda and coffee to 200mg or less of caffeine per day. Opt for milk, juice or water instead.
