Disclaimer: In Traditional Chinese Medicine, consuming Bird’s Nets during pregnancy is considered beneficial. However, there’s limited scientific evidence to support specific health benefits.
When I told my parents I was pregnant, one of the first care packages my mom sent me was a box of dried bird’s nest. Growing up in a Chinese household, I’ve always known that bird’s nest is prized for its health and beauty benefits. I remember when I was younger and struggling with acne, my mom bought me bird’s nest soup to drink.
Beyond its beauty benefits, bird’s nest is especially valued during pregnancy. In Chinese culture, it’s considered a healthy, nutritious ingredient worth investing in for the sake of the baby and the mother’s well-being during this critical development time.
Based on the information shared by my mom and mother-in-law, as well as supplemental information I’ve gathered from sources online, here’s a list of the benefits of consuming bird’s nest during pregnancy:
🧠 Supports Fetal Brain Development
Bird’s nest contains sialic acid, a compound that is important for the development of the fetal brain and nervous system. Studies have shown that sialic acid enhance cognitive functions and improve memory by promoting neural connections.
| Fetal Brain Development | – Sialic acid is a key component of gangliosides and glycoproteins in the brain. – It supports neurodevelopment, synapse formation, and memory function. – Rapid brain growth in the third trimester especially increases demand for sialic acid. |
| Immune System Support | – Sialic acid helps regulate the immune system and protect against pathogens. – It aids in immune tolerance—reducing the risk of the mother’s body rejecting the fetus. |
| Development of the Placenta | – Sialic acid-rich molecules are involved in placental growth and function. – It helps with nutrient transport from mother to baby. |
| Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Effects | May help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are linked to pregnancy complications like preeclampsia. |
Because bird’s nest contains sialic acid, consuming it during pregnancy may contribute to your baby’s brain development. Other natural sources of sialic acid are: human breast milk, organ meats, egg yolks, dairy products and some fermented foods and seaweed.
💪 Boosts Immunity
The glycoproteins and antioxidants found in bird’s nest can strengthen the immune system, helping to protect both mother and baby from infections. This is particularly beneficial as pregnancy can sometimes alter immune responses.
🦴 Enhances Bone and Muscle Development
Bird’s nest is a natural source of calcium, which is essential for the development of the baby’s bones and muscles. Adequate calcium intake during pregnancy helps prevent maternal bone depletion and supports fetal skeletal development.
✨ Improves Skin Health
The presence of Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) in bird’s nest promotes skin regeneration and elasticity. This can help reduce the appearance of stretch marks and maintain a healthy complexion during pregnancy.
⚖️ Provides Essential Nutrients
Bird’s nest is rich in proteins, amino acids, and trace minerals like iron and potassium. These nutrients support overall health, energy levels, and help prevent common pregnancy-related issues such as fatigue and anemia.
📝 Safety and Consumption Guidelines
To safely incorporate bird’s nest into your pregnancy diet:
- Source: Purchase from reputable suppliers to ensure authenticity and safety.
- Preparation: Clean thoroughly and cook using methods like double boiling or steaming to preserve nutrients .
- Dosage: Consume 3–5 grams of dried bird’s nest per day, 3–6 times a week.
- Consultation: Always consult with your healthcare provider before adding new supplements to your diet.
🍵 Sample recipe
- Soak dried birds nest in water for about 2 hours at room temperature or in the fridge overnight.
- Rinse well and place it in a cleaned steam-safe bowl (or a double boilder) with 2 cups of water. Steam/boil for about 25 minutes or until the birds nest is soft and has a loose jelly like consistency.
- Dissolve rock sugar to taste.
- You can enjoy it warm or allow it to fully cool, then chill and enjoy it as a cold beverage.
References:
Multi-Layered Mechanisms of Immunological Tolerance at the Maternal-Fetal Interface
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