My nani told me to avoid sesame seeds completely now that I'm pregnant. She says they are 'garam'. Is it true that til (sesame seeds) are harmful during pregnancy?
I'm currently in my 20th week and my mother-in-law literally banned sesame seeds in our kitchen! I really miss having til ki chikki. Did anyone else here also avoid it completely, or is it okay to eat a little bit now that I'm in my second trimester? It's my first pregnancy so I get confused between all these traditional rules and modern science.
Sesame seeds are a great source of calcium and healthy fats, which are amazing for your muscles. I used to sprinkle a few on my salads during my second trimester to help keep my energy up for my daily pre-natal yoga and walks, which my doctor had happily allowed. Just eat them in moderation and you'll be absolutely fine!
Oh, I totally understand your fear! When I was pregnant, I accidentally ate a til laddo at a family function and cried for hours thinking I did something terrible to my baby. But honestly, my baby is now 6 months old and completely healthy, so please don't stress. A small amount of sesame seeds won't do any harm, so breathe easy!
I totally understand how every single bite you take right now feels like a big decision because you want to protect that little miracle inside you. Sesame seeds are generally safe in tiny amounts, but if it makes you anxious, it is better to avoid them for your own peace of mind. Your emotional comfort is just as important as your physical health, dear.
Beta, hamare zamane me toh bada-boodhe bolte the ki pregnancy ke pehle teen mahine til (sesame seeds) nahi khana chahiye kyunki isse sharir me garmi badhti hai. It is better to avoid it in the first trimester just to be on the safer side. Early months me kheer ya daliya khao, aur second trimester ke baad thoda khana chaho toh ghee ke sath khao, par bina doctor se pooche zada kuch mat khana.
Scientifically speaking, sesame seeds are actually very rich in calcium, iron, and fiber, so they are not harmful at all when eaten in moderation. However, in India, there is a strong traditional belief about them causing "heat" in the first trimester. Honestly, the best approach is to check with your gynac, as they can guide you based on your personal health and pregnancy stage.
Oh god, I had the exact same worry! I read somewhere that sesame seeds can cause contractions, and I immediately threw away a whole packet of cookies that had til on them. Actually, my doctor later told me that a few seeds won't do anything, but if you are already an overthinker like me, just avoid it so you don't keep worrying for no reason!
