Is it Okay to Eat Apple Pie While I’m Pregnant?

Is Apple Pie Safe in Pregnancy?

The short answer is yes! There are no concerns or restrictions around eating apple pie during pregnancy.

Both apples and pie crust are perfectly fine to consume while pregnant. Apples are loaded with important nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. They are also low in calories and fat. Pie crust, typically made from refined wheat flour, butter, and/or shortening, provides carbohydrates and calories.

As long as you watch your portion sizes and don’t overindulge, enjoying apple pie as part of an overall balanced diet is A-OK when you’re expecting!

Pros:

• Apple pie contains fruit, which provides vitamins and fiber that can be beneficial during pregnancy. The applesauce in pie provides vitamin C, copper, and fiber.
• Pie crust made with whole grains provides additional fiber and nutrients.
• Apples may help relieve constipation, which is common during pregnancy.
• A small slice of apple pie can satisfy a craving for something sweet.

Cons:

• Pie crust is made with refined flour, sugar, and fat, so large servings provide empty calories and fat. Too much sugar is not recommended.
• Cinnamon in apple pie contains a compound called coumarin that may be harmful in very large doses. A small amount is likely fine.
• Some pies may contain raw or undercooked eggs in the crust or topping, which raises the risk of salmonella. Stick to fully cooked fillings and egg-free crust.
• Ice cream or whipped cream paired with pie adds extra sugar and fat.

Apple Pie Nutrition Run-Down

Before indulging, let’s break down what’s actually in a typical slice of apple pie:

• Apples: Fiber, vitamin C, antioxidants
• Cinnamon: May regulate blood sugar
• Butter crust: Fat, refined carbs
• Sugar: Empty calories

So while apple pie has some nutritional merit from the apple and spice, it’s still relatively high in calories, refined carbs, and sugar. Now let’s talk safety!

The Scoop on Ingredient Safety

Rest assured that apple pie made with typical ingredients is 100% safe during pregnancy. Here are the most common questions:

Apples – Raw apples are safe and healthy. Just wash thoroughly before eating.

Pie crust – Standard ingredients like flour, butter, oil and sugar are A-OK.

Spices – Cinnamon, nutmeg, etc. add flavor and are safe in moderation.

Eggs – Lightly cooked eggs in pie crust or washes are safe and provide protein.

So dig in without worry about any ingredients harming you or baby-to-be!

Portion Control Pointers

Apple pie tastes amazing, but portions matter when pregnant. Here are some tips:

• Stick to one modest slice per sitting
• Balance with protein, veggies, healthy fats
• Avoid huge meals centered around apple pie

Practice moderation to keep your blood sugar stable. You get to enjoy without overdoing it!

Balance with Other Food Groups

While the occasional slice of pie is fine, you still need a balanced diet while expecting.

• Fill half your plate with non-starchy veggies.
• Pair pie with protein like nuts, Greek yogurt or eggs.
• Include whole grains like quinoa or oatmeal.
• Drink water and milk, avoid sugary drinks.

Eat the rainbow! Apple pie can be part of a healthy pregnancy diet when paired with nourishing foods.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade: What’s Best?

Both store-bought and homemade apple pie can be smart choices. Here are some tips:

Store-bought: Look for –

• No artificial ingredients
• Identifiable, simple foods
• Fruit as first ingredient

Homemade: Provides ability to –

• Control sugar and fat
• Use whole grain flours
• Customize flavors

Whichever route you choose, be mindful of portions and enjoy every tasty bite!

Satisfy Your Cravings Without Guilt

Pregnancy comes with intense cravings, and that’s totally normal. Don’t feel guilty giving into your apple pie urges in moderation.

• Keep single-serve portions in the freezer for convenience.
• Buy mini whole wheat crusts and make baby pies.
• Share a slice with a friend so you don’t overeat.
• Savor every bite – you deserve this!

Take it easy on yourself and give in to cravings mindfully.

Try Some Delicious Alternatives

Beyond classic apple pie, there are so many flavorful alternatives to try while expecting:

• Peach apple
• Pear apple
• Blueberry apple
• Blackberry apple
• Raspberry apple
• Strawberry rhubarb
• Cherry almond
• Banana cream

Mix it up! Satisfy your cravings with delicious fruity twists.

Is It OK for Breakfast?

Craving pie first thing in the morning? Go ahead and treat yourself! Here are some nourishing ways to enjoy it for breakfast:

• Top with Greek yogurt and granola
• Serve alongside eggs, fruit, oatmeal
• Bake into a pie omelet
• Dice into overnight oats
• Blend into a smoothie

Remember to pair your slice with protein! Pie at breakfast can be a fun way to start your day.

Handling Common Concerns

You may still have some worries about eating pie while pregnant. Here are answers to common questions:

Blood sugar? Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Weight gain? Be mindful of portions and keep an eye on the scale. Discuss with your doctor.

Food poisoning? Use pasteurized eggs and wash produce to be safe.

Pesticides? Organic is ideal, but thoroughly washing apples helps remove residues.

Apple Pie Aversion? Try These Tweaks

If you’re suddenly turned off to apple pie during pregnancy, you’re not alone! Tastes change due to hormones.

Try these troubleshooting tips:

• Swap cinnamon for ginger – it settles stomachs
• Add vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a flavor shift
• Opt for a fruit pie made with lemon juice
• Focus on the apples and avoid crust
• Go for chilled pie instead of warm

Hopefully a few simple adjustments will get you enjoying apple pie again!