
05 Apr What fruit is not good for pregnancy?
You might have heard about the dangers of papaya, pineapple, and grapes. Really, it seems like everything comes with a warning label these days. Rumors abound about the fruits that can cause harm to you and your developing baby. We’re here to tell you that you can breathe easy. That fruit salad you had at breakfast was most likely a healthy choice!
With so much information out there, it’s hard to know what to believe. As women, as prenatal nutritionists, as functional nutrition therapists, we are here to help resolve your doubts. Always, though, regarding your pregnancy and any specific concerns, we recommend you talk to your ObGyn about any health problems.
Every woman’s pregnancy is unique, and every woman’s dietary needs are unique. During pregnancy, your body goes through some big changes, and your dietary needs, too, will change. Get the support you need from an RDN to take the guesswork out of what’s best for you and your baby.
So, back to the fruit dilemma. Which fruit is not good for pregnancy?
Be aware of high-sugar fruits. If you have diabetes or have developed gestational diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels. Fruits have fructose (a natural sugar), and some fruits are naturally higher in fructose than others. High-sugar fruits don’t necessarily need to be eliminated from your diet (pineapple, grapes, mangoes, and cherries are particularly sweet), but you should consume them in moderation. Steer clear of fruit juices and smoothies because they have all the sugar and none of the fiber. If your body reacts to a fruit, talk to your prenatal nutritionist or ObGyn to make adjustments to your pregnancy diet plan.
Be aware of the packaging. Oftentimes fruits, unfortunately, are packaged in plastic, plastic, plastic. Many plastics contain a chemical called phthalates, which can be harmful not only to you but can also to your developing baby. Bring paper bags. Avoid buying things with plastic. This goes for everything, really.
Wash your fruits well. Unwashed fruits pose a risk of bacterial contamination, and pregnant women are more vulnerable to bacterial infections. The Mayo Clinic recommends washing fruits under running water, rubbing them gently with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt or bacteria that may be present. Fruits with rough skins, such as cantaloupe or pineapple, should be scrubbed with a brush. Harvard Health advises pregnant women to opt for fruits with thicker skins or rinds, like oranges or bananas. These fruits may be less likely to harbor harmful bacteria, but should still be washed thoroughly before eating. And if you can, consider purchasing fruits from your Farmer’s Market or organic fruits, as they use fewer pesticides.
Generally speaking, fruits are a healthy part of a pregnancy diet plan. They provide nutrients, vitamins, and fiber, all of which support a healthy pregnancy and your developing baby. Anything in extreme is unhealthy. And, when in doubt, contact your physician or prenatal dietitian.