Milkshakes are a popular treat made by blending milk, ice cream, and flavorings. Whether they are safe during pregnancy depends heavily on the ingredients and preparation methods. While dairy provides calcium and protein, the overall nutritional profile and certain preparation methods introduce specific risks. Expectant mothers should be aware of three main concerns: bacterial contamination, excessive sugar and calories, and the presence of less obvious additives.
Understanding the Bacterial Risks
The primary safety concern with milkshakes is the risk of foodborne illness, specifically from Listeria monocytogenes. Pregnant women are significantly more susceptible to listeriosis due to changes in the immune system. Listeriosis is linked to serious outcomes like miscarriage, stillbirth, and severe illness in the newborn.
A major source of this risk comes from unpasteurized ingredients, including raw milk or ice cream made with raw dairy. Pasteurization is a heating process designed to eliminate harmful bacteria like Listeria, E. coli, and Salmonella without compromising nutritional value. Milkshakes made with unpasteurized dairy should be avoided entirely.
Soft-serve ice cream, often used as a base for thick milkshakes, is another common source of contamination. Soft-serve machines can harbor Listeria due to improper cleaning or temperature fluctuations. Since soft-serve is stored at refrigeration temperatures, any bacteria present can multiply to dangerous levels. Opting for milkshakes made with commercially packaged, hard-frozen, pasteurized ice cream greatly reduces this risk.
Addressing Sugar and Nutritional Concerns
Milkshakes present a substantial nutritional concern due to their high content of added sugars and saturated fats. These ingredients contribute to high caloric intake, which can lead to excessive gestational weight gain if consumed frequently. Gaining too much weight during pregnancy is associated with increased risks for both the mother and the baby.
The rapid influx of sugar from a large, liquid beverage can cause significant spikes in blood glucose levels. This high glycemic load increases the risk of developing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), a condition involving glucose intolerance that appears during pregnancy. Managing blood sugar levels is a central part of treatment for GDM. Milkshakes and other sugar-sweetened beverages are often advised against because they quickly elevate blood sugar.
Moderation is important when including this treat in a pregnancy diet. Nutritional risks can be mitigated by choosing smaller portion sizes or making healthier versions at home. Alternatives include blending pasteurized milk with frozen fruit instead of ice cream, which adds fiber and reduces added sugars. Selecting low-fat or non-fat milk bases also helps reduce the overall saturated fat and calorie content.
Hidden Ingredients to Monitor
In addition to the main dairy and sugar content, certain flavorings used in milkshakes introduce specific components requiring attention during pregnancy. Caffeine is a common concern if the shake contains coffee, espresso shots, or large amounts of chocolate syrup or cocoa powder. Health guidelines recommend limiting total daily caffeine intake to no more than 200 milligrams from all sources.
While a typical chocolate milkshake contains negligible caffeine, coffee or espresso-flavored shakes can easily exceed the daily limit. Alcohol is another less obvious additive, present in trace amounts in certain flavor extracts like pure vanilla or rum flavoring. Although the amount of alcohol in a single serving is minimal, some women prefer to avoid all alcohol during pregnancy.
Pregnant individuals should also be mindful of artificial sweeteners and food dyes, often found in low-sugar or brightly colored flavor syrups. While approved sweeteners are generally considered safe in moderation, some studies suggest a link between high consumption of artificially sweetened beverages and increased risks of GDM and childhood weight issues. Opting for natural flavorings or fresh ingredients is the most straightforward way to avoid these additives.