Breastfeeding is vital for both the mother and the baby. To be able to breastfeed well, the mother must have a balanced and nutritious meal. Jackfruit is sweet and fruity and has a very different texture as well. This fruit is known to be enriched with vitamins, potassium, and antioxidants. So is it safe to have jackfruit while breastfeeding?
This fruit is usually found in Southern regions of India, specifically in the Ghats, and is widely ava in Karnataka and Kerala. All foods taken during breastfeeding are sure to reach the baby’s body in small portions. Let us now see some points that will offer insight into whether jackfruit should be consumed during the lactation period, the side effects of its consumption, and the safety measures to be taken before consuming it while breastfeeding.
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Can We Eat Jackfruit During Breastfeeding?
In short, the answer is Yes, You can eat jackfruit during breastfeeding. Its rich nutrient content makes it a healthy addition to your diet. Jackfruit is packed with essential vitamins and minerals that benefit both the mother and the baby. However, you must consume it in moderation and if you have any prior history of allergies or sensitivity to jackfruit consumption then you must take precautions while trying to eat jackfruit while breastfeeding.
Nutritional Value of Jackfruit
Jackfruit is rich in carbohydrates, dietary fiber, protein, vitamins, and other micronutrients (1). The seeds and flesh of fruit contain phytochemicals that have significant nutritional properties (2). However, there is a variation in the composition of fruit depending on the variety and maturity stages.
Table: Nutritional Value of Jackfruit (ripe and young fruit) (Per 100 gms) (3)
| Composition | Young Fruit | Ripe fruit |
|---|---|---|
| Water | 76.2-85.2 | 72.0 -94.0 |
| Protein (g) | 2.0 -2.6 | 1.2 -1.9 |
| Fat (g) | 0.1 -0.6 | 0.1 -0.4 |
| Carbohydrate (g) | 9.4-11.5 | 16.0-25.4 |
| Fiber (g) | 2.6-3.6 | 1.0-1.5 |
| Total sugars (g) | – | 20.6 |
| Total minerals (g) | 0.9 | 0.87-0.9 |
| Calcium (mg) | 30.0-73.2 | 20.0-37.0 |
| Magnesium (mg) | – | 27.0 |
| Phosphorus (mg) | 20.0-57.2 | 38.0-41.0 |
| Sodium (mg) | 3.0-35.3 | 2.0-41.0 |
| Potassium (mg) | 287-323 | 191-407 |
| Iron (mg) | 0.4-1.9 | 0.5-1.1 |
| Vitamin A (IU) | 30 | 175-540 |
| Thiamine (mg) | 0.05-0.15 | 0.03-0.09 |
| Riboflavin (mg) | 0.05-0.2 | 0.05-0.4 |
| Vitamin C (mg) | 12.0-14.0 | 7.0-14.0 |
| Energy (kJ) | 50-210 | 88-410 |
[Read: Ginger During Breastfeeding]
8 Amazing Benefits of Eating Jackfruit During Breastfeeding
Consuming JackFruit during breastfeeding can be a safe snacking option when eaten in moderation. It is a versatile fruit that helps in meeting energy and other nutrient requirements for lactating mothers.
Jackfruit has a myriad of several benefits for the lactating mother.
1. Rich in Essential Nutrients
Jackfruit is packed with vitamins A, and C, as well as minerals like potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium. These essential nutrients play a key role in the development of the baby and help to maintain the overall health of the breastfeeding mother.
2. Boosts Energy Levels
Breastfeeding mothers need extra energy to breastfeed and care for the newborn baby. A balanced diet with small meals throughout the day forms an important part of her meal plan. Jackfruit is a rich source of fructose and sucrose, providing much-needed energy (4). Jackfruit chips can be a great snacking option for breastfeeding mothers owing to less sodium content and the absence of saturated fatty oil and cholesterol (5).
3. Regulates Digestion And Prevents Constipation
The high fiber content in jackfruit prevents constipation, regulates bowel movements, and safeguards the colon mucous membrane from foreign matter. This protective function is a great advantage for breastfeeding mothers with digestion-related problems (6).
4. Strengthens Bones
With longer periods of breastfeeding, bone density is temporarily affected. Jackfruit is rich in magnesium and manganese, which help improve calcium absorption and favor bone mass.
5. Improves Skin Health
Hormone fluctuation during postpartum and breastfeeding reduces the transepidermal water leading to dehydration, making the skin dry and flaky. Jackfruit has anti-inflammatory properties that greatly improve collagen production, combat oxidative stress, and firm the skin (7).
6. Prevents Anaemia and Maintains Thyroid Health
Breastfeeding mothers can be prone to anemia due to blood loss during childbirth. Jackfruit is loaded with essential micronutrients like copper and iron that help combat anemia and improve blood circulation. Copper in jackfruit may help maintain thyroid health (8) by optimizing thyroid hormone absorption which is a great advantage for reducing problems related to let-down reflex (9).
7. Supports Immune System
After delivery, the immune system of mothers is often low. The antioxidants and vitamins present in jackfruit help fight illness and support the immune system of the mother and also the baby.
8. Helps in Lactation
According to ancient belief, jackfruit is considered to be beneficial for lactating mothers. Though there is no scientific observation to prove its relevance, many mothers have reported an increase in breast milk after jackfruit consumption. Jackfruit is packed with essential nutrients and is believed to have galactagogue properties.
[Read: Oatmeal For Breastfeeding Mothers]
Potential Side Effects of Eating Jackfruit During Breastfeeding
Undoubtedly, the consumption of jackfruits has some wonderful benefits. However, some potential side effects lactating mothers should be well aware of before starting including jackfruit during breastfeeding.
- Gas and Colic to the Baby – Jackfruit is rich in fiber content and thus may colic related problems like gas and discomfort or fussiness to the baby.
- Allergic Reactions (Rare) – Though rare, sometimes consumption of jackfruit may lead to an allergic reaction like vomiting, rashes, or difficulty in breathing.
- Sensitive Taste – Jackfruit has a particular taste which is often transferred to the breastmilk. Though it does not cause discomfort most babies may dislike it.
Precautions to Take While Eating Jackfruit During Lactation
Jackfruit taken in moderation shows no side effects yet can be troublesome with excessive consumption. Here are some of the precautions that a lactating mother should take with jackfruit when breastfeeding.
- If you are new to jackfruit then start with small quantities and monitor your baby for allergic reactions.
- Moderate consumption is the key to making sure that you don’t suffer ill effects associated with excessive consumption.
- When in doubt, always consult your doctor or a lactation consultant about the safety of consuming jackfruit when breastfeeding your baby.
- Jackfruit can often interact with medications for diabetes and sedatives. so please connect with our healthcare provider in case you are taking any medications.
- Jackfruit seeds may hinder nutrient absorption if eaten raw.
- People with blood-related disorders should avoid Jackfruit.
Does Jackfruit Affect Breast Milk?
There is no research to suggest that the mother consuming jackfruit can negatively impact the breastmilk in any way. But moderate consumption is vital. Jackfruit may change the flavor of the breastmilk. Some babies may initially not like this flavor. However, babies exposed to different flavors through breast milk may find it easier to try different foods once they start solids.
Mothers allergic to jackfruit should avoid consuming it during breastfeeding. In some cases, the mother consuming jackfruit may cause gastric discomfort to breastfed babies. If you find that your baby has developed colic pain after you have consumed jackfruit, it may be a good idea to temporarily stop consumption.
Ways To Consume JackFruit During Breastfeeding
You can enjoy jackfruit in its natural form. Also, there are so many dishes including puddings and ice creams that you can make with jackfruit (10). Curries can be cooked from raw jackfruit. Not only the flesh but the seeds of the jack fruits are also edible after cooking.
- Ripe jackfruit can be taken as a fruit in its natural form.
- Raw jackfruit can be used in making savory dishes.
- Jackfruit flesh can be used to make puddings and ice creams
- Jackfruit seeds can be roasted and relished as snacks.
A lactating mother must ensure that she has a balanced diet to allow for proper milk production and give her enough energy to tend to her baby. Contrary to popular opinion, consuming jackfruit may be beneficial to you and your little one as long as you do not observe any ill effects from consuming this fruit. Also, make sure you are consuming jackfruit after cleaning it properly and in moderate quantity.
Read More: Millets For Post-Delivery and Breastfeeding Mothers – Everything You Need to Know
FAQ’s
1. Which Fruit is Good for a Lactating Mother?
Though all fruits are nutritious and have their own benefits, green papaya is considered the best fruit for lactating mothers. The enzymes in papaya promote milk production and hence are considered best.
2. Is it Ok to Drink Water After having Jackfruit?
Water consumed after eating jackfruit will alter the pH level in the body and thereby slows the digestion process, hence it is best to avoid drinking water after eating jackfruit.
3. Can We Consume Jackfruit And Milk Together?
The combination of jackfruit and any milk products is not advised as it slows down the digestion process and also leads to skin diseases.
4. Why are Breastfeeding Mothers Discouraged From Eating Jackfruits?
Jackfruits can cause gas in the breastfeeding mother as well as the baby. This can cause indigestion as well as discomfort for the baby. It can also cause great discomfort in some new mothers who have undergone a cesarean delivery.
5. How Much Jackfruit Can I Eat When am Breastfeeding?
Jackfruit is rich in fiber. Moderation is the key when you are breastfeeding. Check with your doctor for quantity recommendations.
6. Can Jackfruit Harm my Breastfed Baby?
No, there is no report supporting this claim. However, jackfruit can cause gas and flatulence in the baby. Passing gas can be quite painful or uncomfortable for young babies.
7. Can Eating Jackfruit While Breastfeeding Cause the Baby to Vomit?
This is a common belief among many people. There are no studies supporting this claim. Eating jackfruit while breastfeeding can change the taste of the milk; the child might refuse and spit out.
8. Can I Eat Jackfruit Seeds While Breastfeeding?
Jackfruit seeds are packed with nutrients and prebiotics. They can help with digestion and increase your HDL levels. A breastfeeding mother can have it in moderation.
References
-
- Exploring the Potential of Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam) – [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/354098409_Exploring_the_Potential_of_Jackfruit_Artocarpus_heterophyllus_Lam]
- Phytochemical profiling and antioxidant activities of different parts of Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. (Moraceae): A review on current status of knowledge | Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences – [https://fjps.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s43094-021-00178-7]
- Nutritional value of Jackfruit | Download Scientific Diagram – [https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Nutritional-value-of-Jackfruit_tbl1_343362477]
- Variation of carbohydrate composition of two forms of fruit from jack tree (Artocarpus heterophyllus L.) with maturity and climatic conditions – ScienceDirect – [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0308814698001757]
- Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophylus) – ScienceDirect – [https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9780124081178000143]
- IRJET- Benefits of Jackfruit and its Natural Properties to Treat Diabetes or Colon Cancer and Weight Loss Related Issues | IRJET Journal – Academia.edu – [https://www.academia.edu/51025144/IRJET_Benefits_of_Jackfruit_and_its_Natural_Properties_to_Treat_Diabetes_or_Colon_Cancer_and_Weight_Loss_Related_Issues]
- Nutritional and Health Benefits of Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.): A Review – PMC – [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6339770/]
- ]Trace elements and the thyroid – PMC – [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9637662/]
- Effects of Elevated Thyroid Stimulating Hormone on Lactation in the Breastfeeding Womanhttps://commons.und.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1110&context=nurs-capstones
- Nutritional and Health Benefits of Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.): A Review – [https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ijfs/2019/4327183/]
