For pregnant women, most often wonder – is drinking pineapple juice safe during pregnancy? Pineapple has been considered as an uncertain choice for pregnant women. Although some claim that it is safe, some say that it must be avoided.
Is drinking pineapple juice safe during pregnancy?
If you are wondering – is drinking pineapple juice safe during pregnancy, let us take a closer look.
In some countries, specifically in India and other Asian countries, pineapple is considered as sour and hot foods that are likely to induce uterine contractions, miscarriage and preterm labor. Due to this, the fruit is seen as a taboo in these areas, especially during the first trimester.
Pineapple includes bromelain, which is an enzyme that thins out the blood, breaks up clots and reduces the formation of blood clots. The ability of bromelain can break up proteins and trigger abnormal bleeding which can lead to premature labor or a miscarriage. This is the reason why some avoid pineapple during pregnancy first trimester.
In some studies, there are no known risks linked with the fruit during pregnancy. It has also been detected that bromelain is included in the fresh fruit but can be removed by the canning process. With this in mind, eating an occasional cup of pineapple tidbits, ideally, the canned ones or a glass of juice might not be detrimental during pregnancy. Nevertheless, if the doctor might suggest against eating the fruit, simply follow it.
What is the safe amount of pineapple to eat?
If you want to include the fruit in your diet, a cup of pineapple is counted as safe since it offers the suggested amount of vitamin C for a pregnant woman.
It is important to note that pregnant women need 80-85 mg of vitamin C. With a single cup of pineapple, it can provide you with the right amount.
What are the benefits of eating pineapple while pregnant?
The fruit boasts a variety of vitamins and minerals along with fiber and water. It includes a high amount of dietary fiber and low saturated fats. Let us now take a close look at some of the benefits of eating the fruit.
- Vitamin C improves the immune system and promotes the production of collagen that aids with the growth of the baby’s bones, skin, tendons, and cartilage.
- Vitamin B1 (thiamine) aid with the proper functioning of the muscles, heart, and nervous system.
- Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is essential for various bodily functions and lessens morning sickness.
- Folic acid aids in the prevention of birth defects involving the spinal cord and the brain.
- Dietary fiber alleviates constipation that is likely to occur during the early phases of pregnancy.
- Bromelain can help treat edema which is a usual complaint during pregnancy. It also helps thin the blood to lower high blood pressure.
You can include a cup of canned or fresh pineapple juice if you want to enjoy these benefits.
Potential risks during pregnancy
Although moderate consumption of pineapple will not trigger any side effects, certain adverse effects might arise if you have a highly sensitive stomach, allergic to the fruit or consuming it in large amounts.
The acid that is present in the fruit might trigger acid reflux or heartburn. It is vital to avoid it if diagnosed with gastritis or peptic ulcer disease.
If you are going to eat the fruit in large amounts, it can lead to the following:
- Abdominal discomfort and diarrhea due to bromelain
- Tender or swollen cheeks, tongue, and lips
In case you are highly sensitive or allergic to the fruit, it is likely for you to end up with allergy symptoms such as skin reactions, itchiness or swelling in the mouth, runny nose or congestion and even asthma. Remember that these reactions are strikingly the same as allergies to pollen and latex and arises right after consuming the fruit. If you want to avoid any of these effects, you must eat pineapples moderately.
Final thoughts
Now that you know the answer – is drinking pineapple juice safe during pregnancy? It is vital to bear in mind that pineapple might not be damaging to your pregnancy if taken in moderation. In case you are going to include the fruit in your diet, choose the freshly cut ripe fruit or the canned fruit or juice. In case you are still having doubts, consult a doctor.
Read also:
- [Top 5 Worst Foods During Pregnancy]
- [Fruits for Pregnancy: What are the Benefits of Eating Dates During Pregnancy]
- [Foods that Claim to Induce Labor: Raspberry tea, balsamic vinegar, spices and More!]
