Fruits are definitely healthy, full of nutrients and highly recommended for everyone, but certain fruits are considered to be risky for pregnant women. It is better not to take any chances, especially during your first trimester, which is a crucial period.
Being aware of what fruits to avoid when pregnant, helps reduce the chances of miscarriages.
Fruits to avoid when pregnant
Pineapple
Pineapples are not safe for consumption during pregnancy, as these are known to induce contractions. Pineapples contain an enzyme known as bromelain in high quantities, which leads to softening of your cervix and causes contractions in early pregnancy. This may cause a miscarriage. Pineapples are also known to cause diarrhea in pregnancy and it can be very discomforting.
Papaya
Papaya is known to increase body temperature, as it contains heat and is not good during pregnancy. Raw papaya consists of latex, which can cause uterine contractions and even bleeding. This may lead to a miscarriage in your first trimester. Ripe papaya is full of iron and other essential nutrients and it may be safe to consume it in moderate quantities after the end of first trimester. Ripe papaya is recommended as a remedy for constipation, but if consumed in excess, it can cause bowel movements, adding pressure on your uterus. To be on the safe side, it’s best to avoid papaya in any form throughout your pregnancy.
Watermelon
This fruit is known for high water content that helps you stay hydrated and get rid of toxins from the body. While doing so, it may flush out certain nutrients that are essential during pregnancy and also, there is a risk of exposing these toxins to the baby in the process. If you consume watermelon in excess, your blood sugar levels may go up, because of its sugar content and this may pose a problem to women with gestational diabetes. Watermelon may help your body keep cool, but it is better avoided during pregnancy.
Grapes
Grapes are not considered safe for consumption during pregnancy, as they generate heat, which may in turn cause contractions. Grape skin consists of a compound which can be toxic to pregnant women. Also, you may face some digestive problems with black grapes, because the hormones slow down the process of digestion.
Dates
Dates provide iron, calcium and energy which are necessary during pregnancy, but this dry fruit is considered to be risky. Dates generate a lot of heat which may trigger contractions in expecting women. Having one or two per day is safe, but you must take care not to exceed.
Peach
Peach is another fruit that is known to heat up your body during pregnancy. Consuming this fruit in excessive quantities can cause bleeding and miscarriage. In case if you have it, make sure to limit the quantity and remove the skin, as it may cause throat irritation.
Frozen fruits
You should avoid canned fruits during pregnancy, because they may have been freeze-dried over a long period of time and may have lost all their nutrient value. Frozen fruits may be poisonous to you and your baby. Better go with fresh fruits to enjoy maximum taste and benefits.
Canned fruits
Canned fruits or any other canned food is not a good choice during pregnancy, because of the presence of preservatives. These can be toxic to your baby and may also lead to complications.
