During pregnancy, your taste buds may fail you. Hence, the excessive cravings and quest for finger foods and crunchy snacks to pass the time or manage nausea.

 

 

Nutrition in pregnancy is a focal point for the adequate development of your growing baby. You should closely watch what you eat and your baby’s safety. 

 

 

This article discusses the famous street food or snack, awara, its health benefits and the risks associated with its consumption during pregnancy.

 

 

What is awara?

 

Awara is a popular street food in the North and South Western parts of Nigeria. In the Western world, the English name for awara is Tofu. 

 

 

Awara is made from the coagulation and curdling of soya milk. The residue is then pressed into sliceable cakes, which you can fry. You can add this as protein to your sauce stews or enjoy them fried with a dash of yaji (sweet pepper).

 

 

 

 

Nutritional components of awara 

 

Awara contains essential vitamins and minerals to aid bodily development. They include:

• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Fibre
• Unsaturated fatty acids
• Carbohydrate
• Vitamins B, C and K
• Iron
• Manganese
• Zinc
• Amino acids

 

 

Can a pregnant woman eat awara?

 

Generally, awara is safe to eat during pregnancy. However, metabolic risks may affect a small percentage of pregnant women. Awara is made from soya beans, and they are high in phytic acid, which interferes with calcium, iron and zinc absorption in the body.

 

Soya beans also contain phytoestrogens, which may disrupt oestrogen levels in your body. This change may adversely affect your baby.

 

 

Health benefits of awara in pregnancy

 

Awara contains fundamental benefits to both you and your baby. Such benefits include:

 

• Omega-3 fatty acids: It is essential for the growth and development of your baby. It also aids in the brain and eye development of your baby. Research shows that it may help prevent perinatal depression. 

 

• Protein: Soya beans contain a high percentage of non-dairy protein, an essential body-building block for you and your baby. It contains about 40% of proteins and is an effective alternative to animal protein. 

 

• Controls cholesterol levels: Awara is an excellent addition to your diet because it helps to control cholesterol levels.

 

• Folate: Its folate may help prevent congenital anomalies and congenital disabilities in your baby.

 

Awara is an excellent form of protein for pregnant women who are lactose intolerant. However, eat awara in moderation and buy from hygienic vendors or stores.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

• Can I eat awara in my first trimester?

Your first trimester is a delicate period. Awara is considered safe during pregnancy. Speak with your doctor about your dietary needs.

 

• What is the English name for awara?

It's called Tofu in the Western world.

 

• Is beske the same as awara?

Beske is the same as awara. It's typically called beske in the Southwestern States of Nigeria. 

 

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