Consuming Pineapples During Pregnancy
When pregnant, mothers need to be extra careful in choosing the food they consume. This food can be transmitted through the placenta to the baby in the womb and affect its condition. Even so, there are many myths circulating about foods that are prohibited for pregnant women that don’t actually need to be believed. One of them is that perhaps many mothers have heard that pineapple should not be consumed early in pregnancy. Is that a correct statement?
Indeed, there are still many myths about pregnancy circulating and believed by the public. One of them is the myth that eating pineapple during pregnancy can cause miscarriage. In fact, pineapple consumed in reasonable amounts will not cause problems in pregnancy. As a result of this myth, many pregnant women do not dare to consume this tropical fruit, because they are worried that it will harm their pregnancy and baby. But, is pineapple really dangerous for pregnancy? Let’s look at the explanation below together!
Facts About Pineapples and Miscarriage
Until now there is no scientific evidence that pineapple is dangerous for pregnancy. The dangers of pineapple for pregnancy are generally associated with the presence of the enzyme bromelain in the fruit. This bromelain enzyme is proteolytic and can break down proteins in the body. Apart from that, it can also provoke contractions, so it is feared that it could cause bleeding and miscarriage. But please note, the amount of bromelain enzyme in pineapple is very small so consuming it within reasonable limits is unlikely to cause bleeding or even miscarriage. To cause bleeding, mothers need to consume 7-10 pineapples in one meal. In other words, consuming 5 pieces or less than 1 pineapple a day will not have a bad impact on pregnancy. For pregnant women who want to consume pineapple, mothers are advised to consume fresh pineapple. Avoid consuming pineapple in the form of juice or canned drinks, because the bromelain enzyme in it is damaged.
Pineapples are actually also beneficial for pregnant women. One of the benefits is that it helps relieve anxiety. According to research, pineapple contains vitamins and flavonoids which are anxiolytic. This effect can help relieve the anxiety that mothers feel during pregnancy. Pineapples are also a source of vitamin C. A cup of pineapple can meet the daily vitamin C requirements for pregnant women. Apart from vitamin C, pineapple contains folate, iron, magnesium and vitamin B6 which are good for fetal growth and the health of pregnant women.
Consume enough pineapple
Pineapples are safe for pregnant women to consume, however pineapple should not be consumed in excess. Consuming too much pineapple can cause several effects, namely:
- Heartburn.
Eating too much pineapple can disrupt the digestion of pregnant women. The acid content in pineapple can increase stomach acid production which triggers heartburn and stomach acid reflux. Sometimes, this condition can also be followed by diarrhea. - Allergic reaction.
Pregnant women who are allergic to pollen or latex have a greater chance of experiencing an allergic reaction after consuming pineapple. Allergic reactions that appear can include redness and itching of the skin, and even shortness of breath.
So in conclusion, pregnant women can still consume pineapple, as long as they don’t consume too much. However, if a pregnant woman has a history of allergies or suffers from certain medical conditions, it is best to consult with an obstetrician or midwife first. The goal is to maintain good control over what foods pregnant women can consume so that they do not harm the mother and fetus.
