Can pregnant women eat longan?
Disease description:
A friend of mine is pregnant and really wants to eat longan, but we are unsure whether longan has any effect on the fetus. May I ask, doctor, is it safe to eat?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
Pregnant women can eat longan, but it should be consumed in moderation.
Longan is rich in glucose, sucrose, protein, B-complex vitamins, vitamin C, as well as minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and iron. Moderate consumption by pregnant women can help replenish energy and nutrients, support enhanced physical health, and promote fetal growth and development. Additionally, due to physical changes and psychological stress during pregnancy, women may experience insomnia, anxiety, and other conditions. Longan has nourishing and calming properties and may help alleviate anxiety and improve sleep quality to some extent.
Pregnant women should be mindful of consuming longan in moderation, as it has a relatively warm and heaty nature. Excessive consumption may lead to internal heat accumulation, causing symptoms such as dry mouth, sore throat, and other signs of "heatiness." Moreover, longan has a high sugar content, and excessive intake may elevate blood glucose levels, which is not conducive to glycemic control during pregnancy, particularly for women with gestational diabetes, who should consume it with extra caution.
Pregnant women should focus on a balanced diet, incorporating foods rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, such as fish, chicken, milk, bananas, and cabbage, to meet the nutritional needs of both mother and baby.
