How much licorice can you eat when pregnant - Get the answer now

Many pregnant women crave licorice but are unsure about how much is safe. The reason licorice can be a concern is due to its active ingredient, glycyrrhizin (from licorice root), which can affect the body, including blood pressure and fluid balance. Determining what constitutes "too much" can be difficult because the content varies greatly from product to product. Therefore, it makes the most sense to think in terms of habits and frequency, and always use official dietary guidelines as a reference point.

The Danish Veterinary and Food Administration has for several years advised limiting licorice during pregnancy. This does not mean you should avoid licorice completely, but rather be cautious with large quantities and especially frequent consumption.

• Eat licorice as an "occasionally" treat rather than a daily habit.
• Avoid making licorice your regular snack if you are pregnant.
• If you are unsure about a specific product, check the ingredient list for licorice root extract, licorice extract, or glycyrrhizin, and limit products where licorice is a clear main ingredient.

Glycyrrhizin is the substance in licorice that typically underlies the recommendation for moderation. Research suggests that higher intake may be associated with unwanted effects, but it is also important to note that this cannot often be directly translated into "X grams of licorice" because the potency varies.

• Some licorice products can be more "concentrated" than others.
• "Natural" licorice and products with extract can still contain a lot of glycyrrhizin.
• The body can react differently from person to person.

There are differences in taste, but not necessarily in what you should primarily watch out for during pregnancy: the content of licorice extract and thus glycyrrhizin. Salty licorice and salmiak can also draw more attention to salt intake and fluid, but this does not change the fact that the licorice component is still relevant to limit.

The more "licorice-like" and intense the product is, the more sense it makes to keep the portion small and consume it less frequently.

If you tend to have high blood pressure, fluid retention, or have previously reacted to licorice, it is especially wise to be conservative with the amount and discuss it with your midwife or doctor. This is not to make it dangerous, but to give you peace of mind: you don't have to guess alone.

• New or rising blood pressure measured by a doctor/midwife
• Concern about a high intake over a period
• Clear bodily reaction after licorice (e.g., discomfort you recognize)

The most important thing is to stay calm and adopt a more cautious approach going forward. Occasional consumption or a single "licorice day" is not the same as high, regular consumption. If you know you have consumed large quantities over a longer period, you can have a brief chat with your midwife or doctor and specifically state how often and how much.

• Take a break from licorice for a period and choose other snacks.
• Write down what you actually eat for a few days if you find it difficult to assess quantities.
• Ask at your next consultation: "I've been eating licorice often - should we keep an extra eye on my blood pressure?"

When you adjust small habits during pregnancy, it can also be nice to support your body in other ways in everyday life. For example, if you need more relief, a Maternity support belt can be a practical help. And if your breasts are sore or growing rapidly, a Gel Support maternity and nursing bra without underwire can provide more comfort.