Is it OK to Drink Rice Water When Pregnant?

Countries such as Pakistan, India, Ghana and others recommend drinking rice water during pregnancy. Not only is it inexpensive and tasty, it can help with nausea, diarrhea and rehydration after illness.

Pregnant women drink rice water in many countries.

Hydration

Keeping hydrated throughout pregnancy is important.

Rice water is a safe way for a pregnant woman to make sure she is getting enough fluids. Adding salt or sugar is commonly done, but rice water lends itself to more creative touches, too.

Nausea

Coriander mixed with rice water and sugar may help nausea.

Morning sickness and nausea affect many pregnant women. To reduce it, Dr. Vandana Sharma notes that a "Paste of dhanyaka (Coriander), mixed with rice water and sugar should be given;" (2009).

Preparation

Rice water is inexpensive and plentiful.

Rice water is simply the water left behind after cooking rice. It requires no special preparation or cost, and it can be enjoyed at any temperature.

Illness

Rice water can help replenish fluids lost during illness.

Rice water with salt can be used to replenish fluids in the treatment of sick pregnant women. The World Health Organization recommends it during recovery from such diseases such as cholera, dysentery, typhoid and others.

Breakfast

Rice water goes well with bread for breakfast.

Pregnancy places great nutritional demands on the body. Ms. Zvenah E. Elahsuv, nutritional specialist, suggests combining rice water with oats, porridge, bread, roasted ground nuts, fruit and other items to increase nutrition (Agyei, 2007).

References

• Agyei, L.A. (2007) Healthy diet in pregnancy and lactation non negotiable.
• Sharma, Dr. V. (2009) Safe pregnancy and motherhood.
• WorldHealthOrganization.org (2008) Key steps for maternal health and newborn healthcare in a humanitarian crisis.

Resources

• Uses for Dhanyaka (Coriander)