Pregnant women often feel stressed about what they should and shouldn’t eat. Choosing the right foods can be confusing, especially with advice coming from all directions. In India, cultural and religious beliefs, like the idea of “hot” and “cold” foods, play a big role. Expectant mothers are usually told to avoid “hot” foods during pregnancy.
Pineapple during pregnancy is one such highly debated topic. Perhaps you must have heard one more popular advice – to stay away from pineapple while pregnant. So does it confuse you that eating pineapple during pregnancy falls under the safe or unsafe food category? Below are some well-researched points to help you out from any developing confusion.
Is It Safe To Eat Pineapple During Pregnancy?
Yes, it is safe to eat pineapple during pregnancy, usually in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters as it prevents cramps after the doctor’s advice. So, having pineapple once or twice a week is always safer. Pineapple is one of the taboo fruits with less research on its ill effects during pregnancy. It’s always best to keep it low and consume with a doctor’s guidance.
What Are The Benefits Of Eating Pineapple In Pregnancy?
Pineapple, packed with multiple nutrients like calcium, potassium, fiber, B complex, and antioxidants, is the best addition to your diet. (2) Here are the benefits of eating pineapple-
1. Rice Source of Vitamin C
Pineapples are a rich source of vitamin C –water-soluble antioxidants that battle against cell impairment inside our body. They work as immunity boosters in expectant mothers
2. Abundant in Manganese
Manganese present in pineapples ensures strong and healthy bones in women, it helps save them from osteoporosis. It helps in creating the essential enzymes for building bones.
3. Rich source of B1 vitamin
Pineapple fruit is particularly high in vitamin B1 (thiamine) which plays a crucial role for a healthy nervous system and muscle function.
4. Good source of Vitamin B6
They are also a good source of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) responsible for producing energy, making antibodies, and are essential for normal red blood cell formation. A deficiency of vitamin B6 can also cause anemia and pineapple can help contain that. Some women also find it effective for morning sickness.
5. Bundle of trace minerals, Copper
Copper, a trace mineral, is also found in pineapple which is especially important in pregnancy as it helps form red blood cells and your baby’s heart. Few researches support that copper is equally important as folic acid for your unborn child during pregnancy
One should always get in touch with their healthcare provider before having pineapple during pregnancy.
Can I Have Pineapple Juice During Pregnancy?
Pineapple juice can be a wonderful addition to your pregnancy diet. As listed above, the fruit contains many essential vitamins and minerals, and good amounts of fiber. They can help in healthy development and growth of the baby and ease constipation as well during pregnancy. However, fresh juice from unripe pineapple can have a laxative-like effect and it is generally avoided by pregnant women.
Can Pineapple Cause Miscarriage During Pregnancy?
You might have heard that eating pineapple during pregnancy could lead to a miscarriage through different taboos. It is believed that it increases the heat which might lead to complications in certain cases. The concern mainly comes from a substance called bromelain, which is found in pineapple. Bromelain can cause contractions in the uterus if consumed in large amounts, which is why it is always advised to avoid it during 1 trimester and consume less during later pregnancy. Too much bromelain can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rashes. However, cooking or canning pineapple destroys bromelain, making it safer to eat in those forms during pregnancy.
What is Bromelain?
Bromelain is the general term used for a group of enzymes found in the pineapple which helps in better digestion of food, especially proteins. The most prominent plant in this family is the pineapple (Ananas comosus). It is present abundantly in both the stem and fruit of pineapple plants.
When Should Pineapple Be Avoided In Pregnancy?
Though considered largely safe, however, pineapple can be unsafe in pregnancy in the scenarios listed below:
- If you have gestational diabetes then pineapple is not the correct fruit for you as it contains high levels of natural sugars. So it must be avoided by those pregnant women who have gestational diabetes
- Eating too much of the pineapple can also cause swelling or tenderness on the lips, inner cheeks, and tongue. However, this tenderness will eventually fade after a few hours
- You are already overweight or have gained too much weight during pregnancy – since the pineapple is high in calories it can make you gain more weight
The key factor to enjoy eating pineapple during pregnancy is –consuming it in moderate amounts. If you eat this fruit in moderation its rich nutrients will assist both you and your developing baby in a very positive way and you also won’t have to worry about its health risk on your pregnancy. Consuming reasonable amounts of pineapple fruit is unlikely cause you any problem, however, it will supply you a few key nutrients essential during pregnancy.
FAQ’s
1. Can I Eat Fresh Pineapple When Pregnant?
Yes, you can. Pineapples are very nutritious. Moderate intake will not hurt you.
2. Can Pineapple Cause Pre-Term Labor?
If you overconsume pineapples, it can. It generates a lot of heat in the body. This is why it is advised to avoid pineapple in the first trimester.
3. Can I Drink Pineapple Juice, When Pregnant?
Yes, you can. Consume in moderate amounts. If you have gestational diabetes, you may want to consult your doctor first.
4. Will Eating Pineapple in My Last Trimester Induce Labor?
No, it cannot. Not unless you are going to eat about 8 pineapples. Just a piece or two will cause no harm.
5. Does pineapple soften the cervix?
Yes, bromelain in pineapple does have the properties which can soften the cervix. So it’s always best to consult the doctor as every pregnancy is different.
