My mom made karela sabzi and im usually fine with it but now MIL is saying avoid bitter things during pregnancy. Im in first trimester. Is there any truth to this or can I eat normally?
I had some complications, so my doctor advised me to avoid bitter gourd in excess as some compounds in it are believed to cause uterine contractions in large amounts. It is safer to ask your gynac or eat only a very small quantity.
Cooked karela is fine to eat, but please don't force yourself if you are having severe morning sickness as the bitter taste might trigger vomiting. Eat whatever light home food you can easily digest.
Yes, karela is generally safe in normal food quantities. Don't go drinking concentrated karela juice as that can be too strong, but eating it as a cooked vegetable once in a while is perfectly fine and healthy.
I actually craved bitter things and ate cooked karela bhurji quite a few times! Just eat it in moderation as a normal meal, and make sure it's cooked well with normal spices.
My doctor told me that while cooked bitter gourd is rich in nutrients, excess consumption or eating the seeds should be avoided during pregnancy. A small portion of cooked karela once in a while is totally fine.
