Is It Safe To Eat Pineapple While Pregnant?

Pineapple contains various essential nutrients and is low in saturated fat. It is also a rich source of dietary fibre that helps ease stomach problems like constipation. However, if you are expecting, then you may be apprehensive about consuming this nutrient-rich fruit during this time. This is because while some believe that eating pineapples is safe, others consider that having this fruit during pregnancy can induce labour. But don’t fret, as this is only a myth and there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. 

So can you eat pineapple while pregnant? If yes, how much of it should you include in your daily diet? Let’s find out.

Can You Eat Pineapple While Pregnant?

Pineapple is safe to consume during pregnancy, as it offers a host of health benefits. It is a rich source of essential vitamins and minerals that are foundational to a healthy pregnancy and proper growth and development of the baby. Some of the nutrients that pineapple contains:

• Riboflavin
• Thiamin
• Folate
• Pantothenic acid
• Vitamin B-6
• Potassium
• Manganese
• Magnesium
• Beta-carotene and other antioxidants

However, keep in mind that pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain. This enzyme can soften your cervix and cause early uterine contractions and preterm labour. Hence, it is advised to consume this fruit in moderation during pregnancy.

Nutrient Profile of Pineapple Fruit

Pineapple boasts an excellent nutrient profile. According to FoodData Central, a cup of pineapples help fulfill the following vitamin and mineral requirements in a day. 

Health Benefits of Having Pineapple During Pregnancy

• Boosts immunity: Pineapple is a powerhouse of vitamin C that helps boost your immunity and prevents cell damage. It also stimulates the production of collagen which is foundational to the development of your baby’s skin, tendons, and cartilage.
• Keeps your bones healthy: Pineapples are a good source of manganese that promote your bone health and prevent the risk of osteoporosis. It also contains high levels of vitamin B1 which regulates the functioning of your heart and nervous system.
• Increases the production of red blood cells (RBCs): The high content of vitamin B6 and iron in pineapple aids in the production of red blood cells in your body and prevents the risk of conditions like anaemia.
• Aids in digestion: Pineapple is rich in dietary fibre that helps keep your bowel movements steady and prevents constipation during pregnancy.

How Much Pineapple Can You Eat During Pregnancy?

One cup of pineapple, roughly 165 gm is considered safe for consumption during pregnancy. However, you must consult with your doctor or dietician to determine the daily requirements of this fruit before adding it to your diet. 

Possible Side Effects of Pineapple During Pregnancy

While moderate consumption of pineapple does not pose any risk, you may experience some side effects if you consume large amounts of this fruit, or if you have a sensitive stomach.

• The high amount of acids in this fruit can cause heartburn or acid reflux during pregnancy.
• It also has a high sugar content and is not recommended for those with gestational diabetes.
• Eating large amounts of pineapple in the third trimester can cause vomiting and skin rashes.
• It may cause gastric discomfort and diarrhoea due to its high bromelain content.

Does Bromelain In Pineapple Affect Your Pregnancy?

Bromelain is an enzyme that thins the blood and reduces blood clot formation. This ability of the enzyme can break proteins in your body and also cause abnormal bleeding and early labour. 

It is usually found in the core of pineapple in very few traces. According to experts, a normal intake of pineapple isn’t likely to affect your pregnancy, and hence, you can continue having this fruit in moderation. 

How to Include Pineapple In Your Pregnancy Diet?

The various ways in which you can include pineapple in pregnancy are:

• You can extract its juice and enjoy it as a drink
• You can use it as an addition to your healthy fruit bowl or salad
• Like other fruits, you can simply slice the pineapples, and enjoy them fresh

Conclusion

We hope this post answered all your questions on “can you eat pineapples while pregnant?” Regular intake of this nutritious fruit can help enhance your overall health and also boost your immunity during this crucial time. However, as discussed, ensure to consult your doctor about adding this fruit to your pregnancy diet, as it is usually not recommended for those with high blood sugar and a sensitive stomach.

FAQs

How much pineapple juice will cause a miscarriage?

You can safely enjoy small servings (one bowl) of fresh pineapple or pineapple juice during pregnancy as pineapple is good for pregnancy. You can also consult a doctor if you have any questions about the quantity of pineapple to be consumed.

Is pineapple juice during pregnancy safe?

Pineapple juice during pregnancy is safe. However, it is not recommended if the expecting mum is at an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes or has a weak digestive system.

Can pineapple cause miscarriage?

You might have heard rumours that eating pineapple causes miscarriage. But there is no scientific proof to support this claim.

Also read:

Eating fish during pregnancy: What kind of fish can you safely consume during pregnancy? Find out in this post.

Eating ajwain during pregnancy: Learn how ajwain benefits your health during pregnancy and ways to include it in your diet.

Eating jamun during pregnancy: Is it safe to include jamun in your pregnancy diet? Find out in this post.

Sugarcane juice in pregnancy: Here’s everything you need to know about having sugarcane juice during pregnancy. 

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