Can pregnant women eat Chinese bayberry (Myrica rubra)?
Disease description:
Hello doctor, my wife is three months pregnant, and recently she has been craving bayberries (Chinese strawberries) very much. However, we've heard that pregnant women need to be especially careful with their diet, as some fruits might be harmful to the fetus, so we feel quite conflicted. Bayberries are sour and sweet with pleasant taste; we would like to know whether pregnant women can eat them or not?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
Generally speaking, pregnant women can eat bayberries, but should do so in moderation and pay attention to food hygiene.
Nutritional needs increase during pregnancy, and taste preferences often change. Bayberries are rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, dietary fiber, and minerals. Vitamin C helps enhance the immune system and promotes iron absorption. From a nutritional perspective, moderate consumption of bayberries is beneficial to a pregnant woman's health.
Pregnant women can eat bayberries, but should choose fresh ones that are not rotten or spoiled. Pesticide residues or bacterial contamination may exist on the surface of bayberries; therefore, pregnant women should thoroughly wash them before consumption to ensure food safety. Additionally, daily intake should be limited to about 10–15 berries to avoid excessive consumption that could lead to blood sugar fluctuations or increased gastrointestinal burden.
Eating bayberries on an empty stomach may stimulate gastric acid secretion and increase the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort. Therefore, it is recommended to consume bayberries after meals or between meals. Pregnant women with gestational diabetes or elevated blood sugar levels should consume them cautiously under a doctor's guidance and closely monitor their blood sugar afterward. If symptoms such as abdominal pain or diarrhea occur after eating bayberries, immediate medical attention should be sought.
