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Can I eat canned chickpeas while pregnant?

Updated May 8, 2023

Many pregnant women are asking: Can I eat canned chickpeas while pregnant?  It is not surprising that this question often comes up since chickpeas are found in many food items.

Chickpeas are a great source of nutrients and fiber for your pregnancy and either fresh or canned chickpeas are fine as long as the chickpeas are prepared using the same safety precautions used for any canned food item.

Perhaps the most common form of chickpeas consumed is when it is used to make hummus.

Hummus is consumed in large quantities throughout the world.

To answer this question at the outset, yes it is ok to eat chickpeas during pregnancy.

In fact, they are very nutritious as they are a good source of protein and folic acid.

 

Can I eat canned chickpeas while pregnant?

 

Can I eat canned chickpeas while pregnant?

Yes! You can eat canned chickpeas while pregnant!

The only advice you will see when it comes to eating chickpeas is to make sure they are cleaned and cooked properly.

You’ll want to skip raw chickpeas during pregnancy.

With the canned form, cleaning has already been done though it is a good idea to rinse them a few times with water before adding them to your food item.

There are many ways to prepare chickpeas, hummus

So now that you know chickpeas are not only safe but nutritious to eat during pregnancy, the following are some of the benefits of chickpeas.

  1. Because chickpeas are high in choline and folic acid, both of which are important to neural tissue) they benefit the development of the fetal nervous system.
  2. Chickpeas are rich in iron and help to prevent iron-deficient anemia which is common during pregnancy. Iron is essential to the development of red blood cells which carry oxygen to the developing pregnancy. There are 2.9 mgs of iron in every 100 mg of boiled chickpeas.
  3. Chickpeas are a great source of fiber that can help maintain regular bowel function during pregnancy.
  4. Chickpeas have nutrients that are important for fetal bone development and cellular metabolism. Some of the nutrients include calcium, phosphate, vitamin K, manganese, and zinc.

 

Are canned chickpeas cooked?

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are a type of legume that can be found fresh, dried, or canned.

Canned chickpeas are cooked and ready to eat, making them a convenient option for busy people.

Chickpeas are a good source of protein and fiber, and they can be used in a variety of dishes.

While canned chickpeas are safe to eat during pregnancy, it is important to check the label to make sure they have been cooked properly.

Some brands of canned chickpeas can be high in sodium, so it is also important to choose a brand that is low in sodium if you are watching your salt intake.

 

canned chickpeas

Image: HHb Media

 

How to cook canned chickpeas?

Canned chickpeas are a quick and easy way to add protein and fiber to your diet.

When cooked properly, they can be just as delicious as their dried counterparts.

Here’s how to do it:

Rinse the chickpeas in a colander and then place them in a pot. Cover the chickpeas with water and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Drain the chickpeas and place them in a bowl.

Add your favorite seasonings and enjoy!

 

Soaked chana in pregnancy

Soaked chana is generally considered safe to eat during pregnancy, as long as it has been cooked properly.

Chickpeas are a good source of protein, iron, and folic acid, all of which are important for a developing baby.

However, there is a small risk of food poisoning from canned chickpeas, so it is important to make sure they are cooked thoroughly before eating.

If you are unsure about whether or not your chana is cooked properly, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid eating it.

There are plenty of other healthy and safe foods to eat during pregnancy, so you can still get all the nutrients you need without taking any risks.

 

10 Canned chickpea recipes that are easy and delicious

1. Chickpea and veggie salad

This easy and healthy salad is perfect for a light lunch or side dish. Simply mix together canned chickpeas, diced vegetables, and your favorite salad dressing.

2. Chickpea soup

Soup is always a good idea, and this hearty chickpea soup is no exception. Simply simmer canned chickpeas in chicken or vegetable broth with some diced vegetables and seasonings.

3. Chickpea curry

This easy curry is made with canned chickpeas, spices, and coconut milk for a delicious and satisfying meal. Serve it over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

4. Chickpea burgers

These easy and flavorful chickpea burgers are a great vegetarian alternative to traditional burgers. Simply combine canned chickpeas, bread crumbs, and spices, then form into patties and cook until browned.

5. Chickpea pasta salad

This easy pasta salad is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch or side dish. It’s made with canned chickpeas, rotini pasta, and a simple vinaigrette dressing.

6. Chickpea wrap

This easy wrap is a great way to use up any leftover canned chickpeas. Simply combine the chickpeas with some shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and your favorite wrap condiments.

7. Chickpea dip

This delicious and healthy dip is perfect for entertaining or as a snack. Simply combine canned chickpeas, tahini, garlic, and lemon juice in a food processor or blender and blend until smooth.

8. Roasted chickpeas

These crispy and flavorful roasted chickpeas make a great snack or addition to salads and soups. Simply drain and rinse a can of chickpeas, then toss with olive oil and your favorite seasonings. Roast in a 400-degree oven for 15-20 minutes.

9. Chickpea salad sandwich

This easy sandwich is perfect for a quick and healthy lunch.

Simply combine canned chickpeas, diced celery, and mayonnaise, then spread on your favorite bread or wrap.

10. Canned chickpea recipes are easy and delicious

These easy and delicious recipes are perfect for anyone who loves canned chickpeas.

From soups and salads to burgers and pasta, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

 

chickpea salad

Image: HHB Media

 

List of foods to not eat when pregnant:

  • Foods that are not pasteurized- certain types of cheese like soft cheeses, Brie, Blue Cheese, etc.
  • Certain types of fish- shark, swordfish, anything high in mercury
  • Raw eggs including egg nog, hollandaise sauce, homemade mayonnaise, and runny eggs.
  • Undercooked meats- lunch meats.
  • Hot foods that are not “hot”, avoid hot foods that have been sitting out without a warming source. Same for foods that should be eaten cold. If there is no ice or refrigeration source keeping the food cold, take a pass.
  • Caffeine- soda, chocolate. (Limit your caffeine to less than 200 mg a day)
  • Herbal Teas (There are so many ingredients in herbal teas so it is best to avoid them simply. Green tea is OK.)

 

Healthy snacks during pregnancy:

  1. Whole-grain crackers with peanut butter
  2. Dry whole-grain cereal
  3. Bagel and cream cheese
  4. Pretzels with cheese
  5. Hummus and carrot sticks
  6. Granola bars
  7. Apple chips
  8. Whole apple
  9. Smashed Chickpea Salad Sandwich
  10. Chicken Salad Sandwich

 

 

Final Thoughts:

Hopefully, the information in this article will help answer the question: Can I eat canned chickpeas while pregnant?

With proper preparation, there is no concern over eating canned chickpeas while pregnant.

Nor uncanned for that matter as long as extra care is taken to wash them thoroughly.

 

Authors

  • Doug Penta MD OB/GYN

    Dr. Doug Penta, MD - Co-Founder of Maternity Comfort Solutions Dr. Doug Penta, is a seasoned Obstetrician and Gynecologist with over 38 years of practice, co-founded Maternity Comfort Solutions to provide evidence-based pregnancy and parenting information. A Boston University alum and former Clinical Professor at Harvard, his articles on Maternity Comfort Solutions offer expectant mothers invaluable nutritional insights.

  • Sue Winters RN

    Sue Winters, RN - Co-Founder of Maternity Comfort Solutions Sue combines 20 years of nursing with a rich background in early childhood education. Co-founder of Maternity Comfort Solutions, her articles provide creative toddler activities and practical tips on pregnancy nutrition and baby shower planning, embodying her commitment to supporting families through early parenthood.

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