Fruits to Avoid During Pregnancy

Feb 20, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

A friend of mine is pregnant and really wants to eat fruits, but we don't know which ones she should avoid. Could you please tell us, Doctor, which fruits are contraindicated for pregnant women?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

Forbidden fruits for pregnant women include hawthorn, durian, papaya, longan, watermelon, and others.

1. Hawthorn: Hawthorn can promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis. Consumption by pregnant women may stimulate uterine contractions and increase the risk of miscarriage or premature birth.

2. Durian: Durian contains a very high amount of sugar. Excessive consumption by pregnant women may easily lead to elevated blood sugar levels, rapid weight gain, and an increased risk of pregnancy complications.

3. Papaya: Papaya contains papain, an enzyme that may stimulate uterine contractions and increase the risk of miscarriage.

4. Longan: Longan is of warm nature. Excessive consumption may easily cause excessive internal heat in pregnant women, leading to fetal restlessness. It may also stimulate uterine contractions, increasing the risk of miscarriage or premature birth.

5. Watermelon: Watermelon is a high-sugar and cold-natured fruit. Excessive consumption by pregnant women may easily damage the spleen and stomach, increase the risk of gestational diabetes, promote dampness accumulation, and be detrimental to health.

Pregnant women should also avoid consuming underripe or inadequately washed fruits to prevent intake of bacteria and pesticide residues. At the same time, pregnant women should maintain a comprehensive and balanced diet during pregnancy, consume various nutrients in appropriate amounts, maintain a healthy weight and blood sugar level, and undergo regular prenatal examinations.