Can I eat shepherd's purse during pregnancy?

Apr 23, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, pregnant women should exercise caution when consuming shepherd's purse and should avoid eating it. Shepherd's purse is a nutrient-rich vegetable containing various vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, which is beneficial to health when consumed in moderation. However, for pregnant women, shepherd's purse contains a substance similar to oxytocin, which may stimulate uterine contractions and increase the risk of miscarriage or premature birth.

Generally, pregnant women should be cautious about consuming shepherd's purse and it is recommended to avoid it. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Shepherd's purse is a nutrient-rich vegetable containing various vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, and moderate consumption is beneficial to health. However, shepherd's purse contains a substance similar to oxytocin, which may stimulate uterine contractions and increase the risk of miscarriage or premature birth. Especially during the early and late stages of pregnancy, when the fetus is less stable within the uterine cavity, consuming shepherd's purse may more easily trigger uterine contractions, which is detrimental to fetal development.

In addition, shepherd's purse has a cooling nature and excessive consumption may lead to indigestion, diarrhea, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Some pregnant women may also be allergic to shepherd's purse, experiencing symptoms such as skin itching and swelling. Therefore, to ensure the health and safety of both the fetus and the pregnant woman, it is recommended that pregnant women avoid consuming shepherd's purse.

If pregnant women wish to supplement nutrition during pregnancy, they can choose other safe and nutrient-rich foods, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and fish. At the same time, pregnant women should maintain a moderate and balanced diet, avoiding excessive intake of any single food. If there are any questions or discomfort regarding diet, they should promptly consult a doctor or nutritionist for advice.

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