Can You Eat Big Mama Pickled Sausage While Pregnant?

Pregnancy comes with a whole host of food cravings and aversions. Your taste buds seem to change daily going from hating your favorite foods to suddenly desiring strange combinations you never thought appetizing before. One such craving many moms-to-be experience is a hankering for pickled sausages. But is this pregnancy-safe? Here’s what you need to know about eating Big Mama pickled sausages during pregnancy.

Big Mama pickled sausages are a popular spicy snack made from a blend of pork and chicken They are pickled in a brine that gives them a uniquely tangy, savory, and balanced flavor The sausages are conveniently individually wrapped, making them an easy protein-packed snack on-the-go.

Big Mama pickled sausages are known for being soft and easy to chew compared to other sausages. They are also known for being made with great care. They are crafted by hand using only the finest ingredients. Big Mama pickled sausages have about 160 calories each and are a good source of protein.

Craving Pickled Sausages During Pregnancy is Common

Cravings during pregnancy are caused by hormonal changes in the body, specifically increased estrogen levels. Estrogen is responsible for boosting the senses of taste and smell. This makes bitter, sour, and spicy flavors more palatable.

Many women experience strong cravings for pickled foods like sausages vegetables and olives during pregnancy. The tangy, vinegary flavors become irresistible. This is the body’s way of seeking the extra sodium and vitamins that pickled foods provide.

As long as your cravings are kept in moderation, there’s no need to feel guilty about giving in to your Big Mama pickled sausage craze. Understanding the risks and following some simple guidelines will help you indulge safely.

The Safety of Eating Pickled Sausages When Pregnant

The good news is that consuming spicy foods like pickled sausages is safe during pregnancy and won’t harm your baby. However, it is smart to limit intake of salty, processed meats and opt for healthier proteins and produce whenever possible.

Here is a list of the possible risks and safety issues that come up when pregnant women eat pickled sausages:

• Sodium Content: Pickled sausages are high in sodium, which can increase blood pressure and swelling during pregnancy if consumed in excess. It’s best to choose low-sodium options.

• Heartburn: For some women, the vinegar and spices in pickled sausage may make heartburn caused by pregnancy worse. Milder versions are less likely to cause problems.

• Foodborne Illness: Homemade pickled sausage could potentially harbor dangerous bacteria like listeria. Opt for store-bought, pasteurized versions just to be safe.

• Undercooked Meats: Certain raw, undercooked sausages may contain toxoplasmosis-causing parasites. Always ensure sausages are fully cooked.

• Nitrates: Some sausages contain nitrates as preservatives, which should be limited during pregnancy. Check the ingredients list and choose uncured options when possible.

As long as you choose quality, cooked sausages and watch your portion sizes, satisfying an occasional pickled sausage craving should be fine. But consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

Healthier Ways to Enjoy Pickled Sausages

If you want to keep your pickled sausage intake in check but still satisfy the craving, there are some healthier ways to work them into your pregnancy diet:

• Opt for turkey or chicken pickled sausages over pork varieties to reduce fat intake.

• Top sausages with tangy sauerkraut instead of fatty condiments to increase fiber and probiotics.

• Enjoy sausages as a protein on top of a nutritious salad instead of on a bun.

• Switch out cured meats for fresh veggie crudités and hummus for a lighter, veggie-packed snack.

• Try baking or air frying pickled sausages instead of frying to reduce overall calories.

• Choose low-sodium varieties and balance intake by upping water consumption.

With some creativity and moderation, you can absolutely satisfy your pregnancy pickled sausage craving safely.

Healthy Pregnancy Diet Tips

While giving in to the occasional craving is perfectly fine, maintaining a balanced diet is still important during pregnancy. Here are some tips to eat healthy for you and baby:

• Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, nuts and seeds. These provide vitamins, minerals, fiber, protein and healthy fats you both need.

• Stay hydrated by drinking water and milk instead of sugary juices and sodas.

• Take your prenatal vitamin to fill any nutritional gaps.

• Avoid raw meat, fish, eggs and unpasteurized products to minimize infection risk.

• Limit caffeine, salty, sugary and processed foods which can aggravate pregnancy symptoms.

• Spread protein intake throughout the day – lean meats, eggs, dairy, beans, tofu.

• Choose complex carbs – whole grains, sweet potatoes, beans, lentils.

• Satisfy sugar cravings with fresh fruit instead of candy or ice cream.

• Listen to your body and allow the occasional treat in moderation.

Keeping your diet well-rounded with plenty of nourishing whole foods ensures you get adequate nutrition during pregnancy for your health and your baby’s development.

Safe Alternatives to Pickled Sausages

If at any point pickled sausages start to make you feel unwell, or you simply want more variety, there are many alternatives that can satisfy the craving:

• Pickled vegetables – Pickled carrots, cucumbers, cauliflower, beets, okra, green beans, etc. Provide tangy flavor without the high sodium and fat.

• Olives – Both green and black olives can provide a nice salty, briny kick that may satisfy the craving.

• Avocados – The rich, savory creaminess of avocado is surprisingly satisfying for those seeking something salty or meaty.

• Edamame – The nutty flavor and satisfying crunch make these protein-packed soybeans a perfect snack alternative.

• Yogurt – Opt for unsweetened Greek yogurt topped with dill, cucumbers, and salt and pepper. Provides creaminess reminiscent of sausage.

• Tofu – Marinated and baked tofu can provide a similar meaty, chewy texture.

• Hummus – Chickpeas are nutritious and hummus provides protein and zip from lemon juice and tahini.

• Plant-based sausage – Try soy or vegetable-based sausages which are lower in sodium and fat than pork.

With a little creativity, you can come up with dozens of ways to healthfully conquer your sausage craze while pregnant. Your body knows what it needs, so listen closely. And, as always, consult your healthcare provider with any concerns over diet and nutrition.

The Takeaway on Eating Pickled Sausage While Pregnant

To summarize, here are the key points to remember about eating pickled sausage during pregnancy:

• Cravings for tangy, pickled foods are very common during pregnancy. There’s no need to feel guilty for giving in occasionally.

• Pickled sausages are safe to consume in moderation, but should not be a dietary staple. Limit portion sizes.

• Opt for low-sodium, cooked, pre-packaged sausages to minimize risks. Avoid raw, homemade versions.

• Balance intake by emphasizing fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. Stay hydrated.

• Discontinue eating if you experience heartburn, indigestion or swelling. Consult your doctor with concerns.

• Explore healthier ways to satisfy the craving like pickled veggies, olives, avocado, yogurt, tofu, and edamame.

• Maintain an overall balanced diet with plenty of water, nutrients, and proper prenatal nutrition.

Satisfying those pregnancy cravings for pickled sausages is absolutely possible with some mindful choices. Listen to your body, practice moderation, and emphasize wholesome nutrition and you can safely indulge those tangy, spicy sausage urges during your nine months of eating for two! Consult your doctor for personalized advice.