Can I eat cherries during pregnancy?

Generally speaking, cherries can be consumed during pregnancy, but it is important to maintain moderation.

Cherries are rich in vitamins, dietary fiber, folic acid, and various minerals such as iron, potassium, sodium, and copper. Eating cherries in moderation during pregnancy can meet the nutritional needs of pregnant women, alleviate fatigue, and support fetal growth and development. The high iron content in cherries promotes hemoglobin synthesis, thus helping to prevent iron-deficiency anemia during pregnancy. Cherries have a sweet and slightly tart flavor, which can help stimulate appetite and digestion, and may help relieve morning sickness and improve poor appetite during pregnancy.

Although cherries are nutrient-dense, they also contain a relatively high amount of sugar. Excessive consumption may lead to elevated blood sugar levels during pregnancy and increase the risk of gestational diabetes. Therefore, it is recommended to limit cherry intake to a moderate amount, such as no more than half a pound at a time, with an average of 3 to 5 cherries per day. If a pregnant woman already has diabetes or elevated blood sugar levels, cherries should be consumed with caution, and blood glucose levels should be monitored regularly.

Moreover, cherries are perishable and prone to spoilage. Pregnant women should ensure the freshness of cherries before consumption and avoid eating spoiled cherries to prevent symptoms such as diarrhea.