Updated May 8, 2023
If you’re pregnant and love Mexican food, you may be wondering — Can I eat Mexican food while pregnant?
The answer is yes – as long as you choose the right types of Mexican food. One of the best things about Mexican food is that it is usually made with fresh ingredients including lots of healthy vegetables.
Today, we’ll discuss some safe and healthy options for expecting mothers who want to enjoy a delicious Mexican meal.
So pull up a chair, order some takeout, and let’s get started!
Can I eat Mexican food while pregnant?
Yes, you can eat Mexican food while pregnant.
One of the great things about Mexican food is that there are so many different options.
Whether you’re in the mood for something light and healthy or hearty and filling, there’s a dish out there that will hit the spot.
And because Mexican cuisine is so diverse, it’s easy to find dishes that are pregnancy-friendly.
Here are a few of our favorites:
- Pozole Rojo
Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup that is typically made with pork, hominy, and chili peppers. The soup is often garnished with shredded cabbage, diced onions, and lime juice. Pozole is a good source of protein and vitamins A and C.
- Tacos al Pastor
Tacos al pastor are a type of tacos that are typically made with pork that has been marinated in a mixture of chili peppers, pineapple juice, and other spices. The tacos are then grilled or roasted and served with fresh pineapple, cilantro, and onion. Tacos al pastor are a good source of protein.
I love to make these in the air fryer!
Photo: Maternity Comfort solutions
- Enchiladas
Enchiladas are a traditional Mexican dish that consists of corn tortillas that are filled with meat or cheese and then covered in a chili pepper sauce. Enchiladas are typically served with rice, beans, sour cream, and salsa. Enchiladas are a good source of protein and make for a filling delicious meal.
Photo: Maternity Comfort Solutions
- Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a type of Mexican sandwich that consists of a flour tortilla that is filled with cheese and then grilled or fried. Quesadillas are typically served with salsa, sour cream, and guacamole. Quesadillas are a good source of protein and calcium.
- Burritos
Burritos are a type of Mexican sandwich that consists of a flour tortilla that is filled with meat or beans, rice, cheese, salsa, and sour cream. Burritos are a good source of protein.
- Chicken or steak fajitas
Fajitas are a classic Mexican dish that can be easily made more pregnancy-friendly by avoiding spicy peppers and opting for chicken or steak instead of shrimp.
Shrimp is safe to eat during pregnancy as long as it is cooked thoroughly.
You may feel more comfortable choosing steak or chicken fajitas, but shrimp fajitas are another low-fat option.
- Tamales
Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish that consists of corn dough that is filled with meat or vegetables and then wrapped in a corn husk or banana leaf before being steamed or boiled.
Tamales are typically served with salsa or mole sauce.
- Chicken tortilla soup
Chicken tortilla soup is a hearty and flavorful soup that is perfect for a winter meal. The soup can be made mild or spicy, depending on your preferences.
- Guacamole
Guacamole is a delicious avocado-based dip that is perfect for satisfying your cravings for something creamy and flavorful. The best part about guacamole is that it can be made as mild or as spicy as you like.
Photo: Maternity Comfort Solutions
Mexican food pregnancy first trimester?
Yes, Mexican food is safe to eat during your first trimester of pregnancy as long as you take a few precautions.
First, avoid any dishes that contain raw or undercooked meat, eggs, or fish.
These ingredients can harbor harmful bacteria that can put you and your baby at risk for food poisoning.
Second, be sure to order your food on the milder side.
Many Mexican dishes are very spicy, but it’s best to avoid these during your first trimester as it can cause morning sickness, heartburn, and hot flashes.
I found the spicy food issue to be especially true during my first trimester of pregnancy.
Maybe it was the morning sickness or early pregnancy fatigue that caused me to be more sensitive to hot spices, I’m not sure but I did get bad heartburn if I ate spicy Mexcican food during my first Trimester.
I believe staying better hydrated would help so be sure to drink lots of water with your meal.
Finally, avoid any fried foods as they may be high in unhealthy fats and calories.
Again, you can enjoy your favorite foods even if higher in calories as long as you do so in moderation.
Mexican food can be higher in fat and calories, especially if eating meals that contain a lot of cheese.
Take some home for lunch or dinner the next day.
Mexican food during pregnancy what to avoid?
As mentioned above, you’ll want to avoid any dishes that contain raw or undercooked meat, eggs, shellfish, or fish.
You’ll also want to avoid fried foods, as they may be high in unhealthy fats and calories.
Skipping the extra spicy meal options is best during pregnancy as they can cause heartburn, hot flashes, and nausea.
You’ll want to eat the right-sized portions of foods to avoid consuming too many calories.
Can I eat pico de gallo while pregnant?
Yes! Pico De Gallo is an excellent option if you’re looking for something light and healthy to have with chips or fajitas
Pico De Gallo is made with fresh veggies (Tomatoes, onions, peppers) and usually cilantro, lime juice and salt.
Can I eat salsa while pregnant?
Chips and salsa are great snacks or appetizers to enjoy while pregnant!
You can safely eat salsa during pregnancy.
Just watch out for how hot and spicy the salsa is.
If it is too spicy it could trigger heartburn or make morning sickness worse if you are in your first trimester of pregnancy.
If you are making salsa at home it is important to wash all the vegetables before you chop and puree them up into Salsa.
Can you eat refried beans when pregnant?
Yes, you can eat refried beans when you are pregnant.
Pinto beans are a pregnancy superfood!
They are high in protein and low in the glycemic index.
They will help you stay full longer and don’t cause extreme spikes in blood sugar.
If you have gestational diabetes you should talk to your doctor or midwife to see if refried beans should be included in your diet during your pregnancy.
Can I eat Mexican rice while pregnant?
Yes, you can eat Mexican rice while pregnant!
Mexican rice is usually made with tomato sauce, chicken broth, and spices.
I have always Mexican rice to be mild, but some restaurants may make it a little spicy.
Rice should be consumed in moderation during pregnancy because it is high in calories
Try to have Mexican rice as a side and have some type of protein as your main course.
Photo Maternity Comfort Solutions
Craving Mexican food during pregnancy boy or girl?
No. Cravings for Mexican food during pregnancy are not indicative of the sex of your baby.
There are old wives’ tales that craving certain foods means you are having a boy, but no studies have found any conclusive evidence that it is true.
So I wouldn’t advise making any assumptions about whether you are having a boy or girl based on your cravings.
I think cravings for Mexican food during pregnancy are more due to the variety of tastes, textures, and freshness of the dishes.
During my pregnancy, craving Mexican food wasn’t my first pregnancy symptom but it was one of them!
My first food craving was Chinese food.
I’ve heard many other women say it was theirs too!
Can you eat food with Adobo while pregnant?
Yes. You can eat adobo sauce while pregnant.
Keep in mind that adobo is very spicy and a little goes a long way.
Mexican adobo is a thick red sauce made with crushed chilis, spices, vinegar, salt, pepper, and garlic.
It has a spicy-smokey flavor.
I love adobo sauce but couldn’t handle it that well during pregnancy.
Your mileage may vary. I would try a small amount at a time to make it won’t bother you.
Can I eat at a Mexican buffet while pregnant?
Yes, you can eat at a Mexican buffet while pregnant, but be sure to take some precautions.
First, avoid any dishes that contain raw or undercooked meat, eggs, shellfish, or fish.
These ingredients can harbor harmful bacteria that can put you and your unborn baby at risk for food poisoning.
Second, be sure to order your food without MSG.
This common ingredient is added to many Mexican dishes to enhance flavor, but it’s best to avoid it during pregnancy as it can cause headaches.
Third, make sure foods are served and kept at the right temp on the buffet.
Hot foods should be kept hot and cold foods should be kept cold.
This is very important to avoid a foodborne illness such as Salmonella.
Finally, avoid any fried foods as they may be high in unhealthy fats and calories, or at least enjoy these foods in moderation.
Can I eat restaurant food during pregnancy?
Yes. You can eat restaurant food when pregnant!
One of the most enjoyable activities is eating out and there is no reason you can’t continue to eat out when you are expecting.
Helpful hints for eating out in restaurants while pregnant:
1. Make a reservation in advance
If you know you’ll be dining out while pregnant, it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance. This will help to ensure that you get a table at a time that is convenient for you and that the restaurant can accommodate any special dietary needs that you may have.
Mexican restaurants are often quite busy on weekends. So plan ahead so you don’t end up standing and waiting too long.
2. Choose a restaurant wisely
When choosing a restaurant, it’s important to consider your own individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, for example, you might want to avoid busy restaurants with a lot of noise and commotion.
Additionally, if you have any specific dietary restrictions or preferences, be sure to choose a restaurant that can accommodate them.
3. Consider your order carefully
When ordering your meal, be sure to take your own needs into consideration. If you’re feeling tired or nauseous, for example, you might want to avoid heavy meals or foods that are high in fat and grease. Instead, opt for lighter fare such as soup, salad, or grilled chicken or fish.
A good option in a Mexican restaurant is to order Fajitas with grilled chicken.
Additionally, be sure to drink plenty of water throughout your meal to stay hydrated.
4. Don’t hesitate to ask for what you need
If you have any special requests or needs, don’t hesitate to ask the waitstaff for assistance.
For example, if you need to bring an extra pillow for comfort or want your food cooked more well done to lower the risk of foodborne illness, just let them know and they’ll be happy to help.
5. Take your time eating
When pregnant, it’s important to eat slowly and deliberately. This will help your body to better digest your food and absorb the nutrients it needs.
Additionally, taking your time will help you to avoid overeating or becoming too full and uncomfortable.
If you eat too fast or too much you can almost guarantee you’ll develop heartburn and nausea.
6. Avoid alcohol and caffeine
While pregnant, it’s best to avoid alcohol and caffeine altogether. Both of these substances can cross the placenta and potentially harm the developing baby.
If you do choose to consume caffeine, do so in moderation and always with the guidance of your healthcare provider.
There is no known safe amount of alcohol you can have during pregnancy.
7 . Know when to stop eating
It’s important to listen to your body when pregnant and know when it’s time to stop eating. If you’re feeling full or uncomfortable, for example, don’t force yourself to finish your meal. Instead, simply stop eating and rest for a few minutes before resuming if you’re still hungry.
8. Ask for a take-out box
If you are getting full but still have food on your plate, don’t hesitate to ask for a take-out box! This way, you can enjoy the rest of your meal later on without feeling too stuffed.
Mexican food makes for amazing leftovers!
Making your own Mexican food at home during pregnancy
You can also make your own Mexican food at home.
That puts you in complete control over the ingredients in your food.
You can also find many of your favorite Mexican dishes in the frozen foods section of your grocery store.
List of foods not to 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, undercooked shellfish, raw oysters.
- Raw eggs including homemade mayo, hollandaise sauce, and eggnog.
- 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 cool, 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 simply avoid them. Green tea is OK.)
Pregnancy is an exciting time filled with lots of changes – including what you can and can’t eat.
Pregnancy can be a stressful time, but there’s no need to give up your favorite foods.
With a little bit of planning, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious Mexican meal – no matter what stage of pregnancy you’re in.
Remember:
- Choose foods made with fresh ingredients including vegetables
- All meats, poultry, pork, shellfish, and fish should be thoroughly cooked.
- Watch the spice level
- Eat a smaller portion of high-calorie, high-fat fried foods.
- Drink plenty of fluids with your meal.
Enjoy your favorite Mexican dishes!
