Hello to all the soon-to-be-moms with carnivorous cravings! If the aroma of a sizzling steak makes your mouths water and stomach rumble, then you’re in the right place.
We’re delving into that all-important question – how should you order your steak when you’ve got a baby on board?
We’ll also discuss whether you can take a medium steak while pregnant and some tips to guide you order the healthiest steak for yourself and your little champion.
Table of Contents
Is Medium Steak Ok When Pregnant?
Whether you usually order a medium steak or you’re yet to order one, the simple answer to your question is ‘NO!’
It is generally not recommended to eat medium steak while pregnant. The internal cooking temperature of this steak is usually below 145 degrees farenheight, and may therefore increase your risk for listeria and other harmful bacteria. Listeria can be very dangerous to both yourself and your baby.
The safest steak option you can order while pregnant is well-done. A Well-done steak ensures that meat reaches higher temperatures that kill potential bacteria and pathogens that could possibly come with them.
How Should You Order your Steak While Pregnant?
Now, to the ultimate question, “How can you order your steak while pregnant?”. When ordering steak during pregnancy, the first and foremost factor you should consider is to order a well-done.
Additionally, you should also consider the temperature level that was used to cook it.
According to Pregnancy Food Checker, many foods that are usually off-limits can be made pregnancy-safe with some easy adjustments. The USDA recommends that pregnant women consume meat cooked to at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit (the higher end of medium doneness).
The Center for Disease Control also emphasizes that the minimum safe temperature for steak cooking is 145°F, followed by a resting period of 3 minutes after cooking.
Your well-done should be one that reaches a sufficient internal temperature of 145°F, ensuring that all bacteria are killed.
As an added safety measure, allow your steak to rest for about three minutes before consuming.
What Are Some Tips to Consider When Ordering Steak ?
These tips are sure to guide you make the best and healthiest steak order while pregnant.
Choose the right restaurant
Opt for a restaurant with a reputation for good food safety practices and good knowledge of how to cater to pregnant women.
Remember, enjoying steak during pregnancy can be safe when cooked properly and combined with a balanced diet. Consuming well-done will help minimize the risks associated with foodborne illnesses.
Order well-done
I keep hammering on this! Pregnant women should opt for a well-done steak to ensure that any potentially harmful bacteria are eliminated. Making this request at a restaurant would help in reducing risks associated with undercooked steak.
Communicate with the server
Inform your server that you are pregnant and ask for yours to be cooked thoroughly, reaching a minimum internal temperature of 160°F.
Verify the cooking temperature
Inquire about the cooking temperature the restaurant uses. Ideally, the internal temperature should reach at least 145°F, with a 3-minute resting period before consuming. Using a food thermometer can help determine this more accurately.
Ask for a side of vegetables
To maintain a balanced diet, consider ordering a side of grilled or steamed vegetables to complement the steak and provide essential nutrients for you and your baby.
What are the Benefits of Eating Steak During Pregnancy?
Eating steak while pregnant has many benefits. It’s important to always ensure that it is cooked properly (medium-well to well-done) to avoid any harmful bacteria or parasites. Here are some benefits;
- Protein Source: Steak is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for fetal tissue growth, brain development, and breast, uterine tissue growth.
- Iron Content: It contains iron, which supports increased blood volume during pregnancy and helps deliver oxygen to the baby.
- Vitamin B12: They are also known to be rich in vitamin B12, which sustains the development of your baby’s nervous system. B12 Vitamin is also known to help maintain healthy nerve cells, as well as synthesizing DNA.
- Zinc: Steak provides zinc, which also contributes to healthy immune system for both yourself and your baby. It also supports cell growth and repair, and helps DNA synthesis too.
- Folate (Vitamin B9): Infact, every pregnant woman needs B9 Vitamin to prevent neural tube defects in the growing foetus. This broiled beef contains plenty folate. As such you can be sure of keeping your baby fit as you eat steaks, and for that matter, a well-done.
- Phosphorus: Steak is also a good source of phosphorus. And phosphorus is going to build stronger bones and teeth, not only for your baby, you too. Yes, you!
- Satiety: Eating steak will make you satisfied for longer due to its high protein content. This can help you manage your hunger levels between meals while maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy.
Can you Eat Pink Steak While Pregnant?
It is generally not recommended to eat pink steak while pregnant. This is because, Pink steak are usually undercooked and can heighten your risk of foodborne illnesses when you consume it.
One Such foodborne illness you can easily contract from eating pink steak during pregnancy is Toxoplasmosis. This foodborne illness is commonest among pregnant women who are fond of eating high-mercury seafood that also comes with plenty bacteria.
It is usually caused by parasites that live in raw and undercooked meat.
If you are the kind that would hardly go days without eating steaks, then make sure that you eat your steak well cooked to at least, a medium-well or well-done in order to get rid of harmful bacteria while ensuring overall wellness.
SEE ALSO:
- Can You Eat Cod During Pregnancy?
- Can You Eat Bratwurst While Pregnant?
Is Burger Steak Good for Pregnant Woman?
Burger steak is a good option for you, as a pregnant woman. It is packed with essential nutrients like calcium, proteins and irons which are necessary for your baby’s health and development.
However you should be mindful to order a done-to-a-turn burger steak that was cooked to an internal temperature of nothing less than 145 degrees farenheight. You need to ensure this to make sure your order comes with no potential bacteria and pathogens.
Also, remember that while hamburgers contain beneficial nutrients, they can also be high in unhealthy fats, and so you would have to check the amount you take in.
Enjoying this seasoned beef patty while pregnant can be safe and healthy when you do it the right way.
Always make sure yours is thoroughly cooked to the brim and be certain to add some fruits and veggies to make it balanced and super healthy.
What are the Best Steak Dishes for Pregnant Women?
There are several steak dishes that can be very appetizing and delicious. But how do you select ones that ensures you stay nourished together with your jellybean? As a dietician, I have out-listed these options that are perfect for you and your little bundle.
- Well-Done Steak with Quinoa Salad: This is a very delicious option for pregnant women. It comprises of the sauteed beef and quinoa, plus blended vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese.
- Steak and Vegetable Stir-Fry: Strips of well-done are mixed with assorted veggies, sautéed in a large skillet. Makes a healthier dish for your baby.
- Philly Cheesesteak Sandwich: While the original recipe might seem unhealthy, it can be tweaked by using lean steak, lower calorie cheese, and by grilling instead of frying.
- Steak Salad: A finely cooked beef can add a punch of protein when sliced and placed atop a salad full of leafy vegetables, fit for meeting prenatal nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you eat a medium steak while pregnant?
Infact, it isn’t advisable to eat a medium steak while pregnant. Most medium ones are cooked at temperatures under 145 degrees, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. Withal, eating it cooked medium, once a long while during pregnancy can be manageable.
Does steak taste better, either medium or well done?
Generally, it tastes better when seasoned well and seared over a higher internal temperature. So a well done is always better.
How cooked does steak need to be when pregnant?
You should cook your steak to either medium-well or well-done to get rid of bacteria while ensuring overall wellness.
Conclusion
It may seem challenging to satisfy your steak cravings while pregnant. However, when you take these necessary precautions, you can have a delightful and safe experience. Remember to order yours well-done to maintain utmost safety and satisfaction.
Clearly communicate your preferred preparation to the chef through your server to ensure it’s cooked at least to an internal temperature of 145°F and let to rest for 3 minutes. Utilize a food thermometer for checking the internal temperature
Opt for dining establishments that prioritize food safety and quality. Complement your steak with an array of nutritious sides, like steamed or grilled vegetables and whole grains, to ensure a balanced diet.
Pregnancy is a journey with several twists and turns – but by following these guidelines, your love for steak won’t have to be one of them. Enjoy this special time in your life; one well-cooked at a time!
