When you are currently pregnant and you care about the thought: pineapple juice during pregnancy. You will discover lots of useful information on this kind of topic, as well as tips, advice, thoughts, and answers in order to questions related to pregnant state, correct nutrition and diet programs.
Pineapple has always been a dubious choice for pregnant women. While some say it is safe to eat, others say it is a strict no-no. So what do you do if you love pineapple and just can’t resist its tantalizing scent? This MomJunction post helps you learn whether a pineapple is safe to eat during pregnancy, its role in inducing labor, and more.
Is it safe to eat pineapple during pregnancy?
In India and other Asian countries, the fruit is classified into hot, sour foods that can induce miscarriage, uterine contractions, and premature labor (1) (2). In these regions it is taboo to eat pineapple, especially in the first trimester.
Pineapple contains the enzyme bromelain which thins the blood, breaks up clots and reduces the formation of blood clots. This ability of bromelain can break down proteins and cause abnormal bleeding leading to premature labor or miscarriage.
However, Integrative Medicine (2018) notes that there are no known risks associated with pineapple during pregnancy. Also note that Bromelain is present in fresh fruit, but the canning process destroys it. (3)
Therefore, an occasional cup of ripe pineapple chunks (preferably canned ones) or a glass of juice may not be harmful during pregnancy (4) However, if your doctor suggests not eat pineapple, then it is good to follow their suggestions, since they know your case better than anyone.
How much pineapple is safe to eat when pregnant?
It is safe to consume a cup of pineapple as it offers the recommended amount of vitamin C for a pregnant woman . Pregnant women require 80 to 85 mg of vitamin C (5), and a cup of pineapple provides 78.9 mg (6).
Why you can eat pineapple during pregnancy
Pineapple has vitamins, minerals, fiber, and water. Contains high dietary fiber and low saturated fat.
- Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) stimulates the immune system and promotes the production of collagen (which is responsible for the growth of the baby’s skin, bones, cartilage, and tendons) (7).
- Vitamin B1 (thiamine) supports proper muscle function, a healthy nervous system, and the heart (8).
- Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is essential for various bodily functions and treats morning sickness (9).
- Folic acid helps prevent birth defects of the brain and spinal cord (11).
- Bromelain helps treat edema (12), a common complaint during pregnancy
- Blood-thinning bromelain (13) can help reduce high blood pressure (14).
You can enjoy a cup of fresh or canned pineapple or pineapple juice if you enjoy fruit and get these benefits too. However, you don’t have to eat pineapple just to reap these benefits. Eat the fruit only if you enjoy it. Otherwise, you can find alternative sources of vegetables and fruits that provide the necessary nutrients.
(Read: Eating prunes during pregnancy )
What could be the risks of eating pineapple during pregnancy?
Although moderate consumption of pineapple does not cause side effects, it can have some adverse effects if you have a sensitive stomach, eat pineapple in large quantities or are allergic to fruit.
The acids in fruit can cause acid reflux or heartburn. You should avoid the fruit if you already have a peptic ulcer or gastritis.
Eating the fruit in large quantities could lead to:
- Diarrhea and gastric discomfort due to bromelain content.
- Tenderness or swelling of the tongue, cheeks and lips.
If you are allergic to pineapple, you may have allergic symptoms such as skin reactions, swelling or itching in the mouth, runny or stuffy nose, and asthma. These reactions are similar to allergic reactions to latex or pollen and occur shortly after eating pineapple.
Therefore, to avoid any of these effects above, you should eat the fruit in moderation.
How much pineapple should you eat to induce labor?
Pineapple is believed to induce labor if consumed in large quantities. Bromelain is said to soften the cervix and help induce labor (3). However, it is unknown how much can induce labor. There are no human studies on this. Some research says that the effect of pineapples in labor may be due to its stimulating property of sugars and fiber in the fruit.
Ways to include pineapple in your pregnancy diet
Some ideas to eat pineapple:
- A cup of pineapple slices is an easy way to add the fruit to your diet.
- Add diced pineapple to grilled pork chops for a tangy flavor.
- Top the chicken spinach salad or the grilled chicken sandwich with pineapple slices.
- Mix fresh pineapple chunks into yogurt and have it in the morning.
- Mix into a smoothie along with other fruits like apples and bananas.
- Place large chunks on skewers made from vegetables or meat.
- Add chopped fruit to a salad.
- Chop the pineapple to make a sauce.
- Add to cakes, cookies, or tarts.
(Read: Benefits of eating guava during pregnancy )
Pineapple may not harm your pregnancy if you have it in moderation. Go for fresh-cut ripe fruit, canned fruit, or juice. If you still have doubts about eating it, seek your doctor’s advice.
Did you have pineapple during pregnancy? Share your experience with us in the comment section below.
References
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